As we approach the end of the year, your schedule is likely packed with holiday shopping, family gatherings, and year-end work deadlines. With so much on your plate, it’s tempting to push that December dental appointment into the new year. However, Dr. Aaron Jeziorski and our team at Toothology want to explain why scheduling your year-end dental cleaning now is one of the smartest decisions you can make for both your oral health and your wallet.
Don’t Leave Money on the Table
Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, meaning your benefits reset on January 1st. If you haven’t maximized your dental insurance benefits this year, you’re essentially leaving free money on the table. Here’s what typically doesn’t roll over:
- Your annual maximum benefit (usually between $1,000-$2,000)
- Unused preventive care coverage, including cleanings and exams
- Your deductible progress — it resets to zero in January
Many patients are surprised to learn that their insurance typically covers preventive services like cleanings and exams at 100%. If you haven’t used these benefits yet this year, scheduling before December 31st ensures you’re taking full advantage of what you’ve already paid for through your premiums.
Start 2026 with a Clean Slate
Beyond the financial benefits, there’s something incredibly satisfying about beginning the new year with a fresh, healthy smile. Your year-end dental cleaning does more than just polish your teeth — it’s an essential preventive measure that can:
- Remove tartar buildup that regular brushing can’t address
- Detect potential problems early, before they become expensive emergencies
- Reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay
- Give you fresher breath and a brighter smile for all those holiday photos
When you skip your regular dental cleanings, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by professional dental tools. The longer you wait, the more challenging and time-consuming the cleaning becomes.
Beat the January Rush
Here’s an insider secret: January is one of the busiest months for dental offices. Everyone who postponed their year-end dental cleaning suddenly remembers they have brand new insurance benefits and tries to book appointments simultaneously. By scheduling your December dental appointment now, you’ll avoid the rush and have more flexible scheduling options.
The Smart Financial Move
Consider this scenario: if you’ve already met your deductible this year and need additional work beyond a cleaning, getting it done before December 31st means you won’t have to pay another deductible. Then, you can use your fresh dental insurance benefits in 2026 for your next routine cleaning or any other dental needs that arise.
Dr. Jeziorski often reminds patients that preventive care is always less expensive than restorative work. That small cavity detected during your cleaning? Much cheaper to fill now than to wait until it becomes a root canal next year.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Time is running out to maximize your 2025 dental insurance benefits. Our Scottsdale office understands the holiday season is hectic, which is why we work hard to accommodate your busy schedule with convenient appointment times.
Don’t let your hard-earned benefits expire unused. Call Toothology at (480) 645-9421 today to schedule your year-end dental cleaning. Your smile — and your wallet — will thank you as you head into the new year with optimal oral health and a fresh start.