As the holiday season approaches and calendars fill up with parties, shopping, and family gatherings, it’s easy to let certain appointments slide. However, there’s one item you definitely shouldn’t push into next year: your year-end dental cleaning. Here’s why scheduling that December dental appointment at Spring Haven Dental should be at the top of your to-do list.
Your Dental Insurance Benefits Are About to Reset
Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, which means your benefits reset on January 1st. If you haven’t used your full coverage this year, you’re essentially leaving money on the table. Here’s what you need to know:
- Annual maximums don’t roll over: Most plans provide a yearly maximum benefit (often between $1,000–$2,000). Any unused portion simply disappears at midnight on December 31st.
- Deductibles reset: If you’ve already met your deductible for this year, you can receive treatments now at a lower out-of-pocket cost. Come January, you’ll start from zero again.
- Preventive care is typically covered at 100%: Most insurance plans fully cover routine cleanings and exams twice per year, meaning you could receive this essential care at no cost to you.
Address Small Problems Before They Become Bigger (and More Expensive)
During your year-end dental cleaning, Dr. Fadi Raffoul, DMD, can identify potential issues while they’re still minor and easy to treat. A small cavity discovered in December can be filled quickly and affordably, especially while you’re still maximizing your current year’s dental insurance benefits. Wait until next year, and that same cavity could progress into a more complex (and costly) problem requiring a root canal or crown.
Regular preventive dentistry services help you avoid emergency situations that never seem to happen at convenient times. Taking care of your oral health now means you’re less likely to face a dental crisis during your holiday travels or important New Year celebrations.
Start 2026 with a Clean Slate
There’s something refreshing about beginning a new year with a healthy, clean smile. Your December dental appointment sets you up for success by:
- Removing built-up plaque and tartar that can’t be eliminated through brushing alone
- Reducing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay
- Giving you fresh breath and a brighter smile for all those holiday photos and New Year’s events
- Establishing a solid baseline for your oral health in the coming year
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
December is one of the busiest months for dental offices as patients rush to use their remaining benefits. Appointment slots fill up quickly, so the sooner you call, the better your chances of securing a convenient time that works with your holiday schedule.
The team at Spring Haven Dental in Odessa, FL, understands how hectic this time of year can be. That’s why we work efficiently to provide thorough, quality care that respects your time while ensuring your smile gets the attention it deserves.
Ready to schedule your year-end dental cleaning? Don’t let your hard-earned dental insurance benefits go to waste. Call Spring Haven Dental at (813) 448-6885 today to book your December dental appointment. Your smile—and your wallet—will thank you as you ring in the new year with optimal oral health.
