As the year winds down, many Calgarians have dental benefits sitting unused. Most plans work on a calendar year, which means whatever you do not use by December 31 is often lost. As a dentist in Calgary, we see the end-of-year rush every fall. Planning ahead now helps you get the most from your coverage and keeps small problems from becoming bigger ones.
Why Unused Benefits Matter
Most dental plans include: – An annual maximum, the most your plan will pay in a year – A deductible, which you pay before coverage starts (often reset each year) – Coverage percentages for preventive, basic and major services
If your plan resets in January, any remaining maximum does not roll over. Your deductible also starts again. So if you were already planning treatment, completing it this year can make a difference.
Every plan is different. Check with your provider or ask our team to help you understand yours.
Services to Consider Before December 31
- Checkups and cleanings. Many plans cover regular dental exams and cleanings. If you are due, now is the time.
- Fillings. A small cavity found today is easier to fix than a big one later. Tooth-coloured fillings repair decay with a natural look.
- Crowns. If a crown was recommended for a cracked or heavily filled tooth, booking soon can help you use this year’s coverage. Ask about dental crowns and whether same-day options suit you.
- Night guards. Some plans cover appliances for grinding.
- Treatment you have been putting off. Talk to us about phasing larger plans across two benefit years.
Splitting Treatment Across Two Years
For larger treatment plans, it can make sense to start part of the work in November or December and complete the rest after your benefits reset in January. This can help spread the cost and make better use of two annual maximums. We are happy to map out a timeline with you.
Do Not Forget Health Spending Accounts
If you have a health spending account (HSA), check whether your balance expires at year-end. HSAs can often be used toward dental costs that your regular plan does not fully cover.
Why Waiting Can Cost More
Dental problems rarely fix themselves. A small cavity can grow into a larger one that needs a crown or a root canal. Early care is usually simpler, quicker and more affordable. Keeping up with general dentistry visits is one of the best investments in your long-term health.
Book Early
November and December fill up fast, especially around the holidays. Our hours are: – Monday: 8am to 4pm – Tuesday: 10:30am to 6pm – Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30am to 3pm – Friday: hygiene only, 7:30am to 2:30pm (closed alternating Mondays and Fridays)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all dental plans reset in January? Many do, but some follow a different benefit year. Check your plan details or ask us to help.
Can you submit claims directly to my insurer? Our team can help with claims. Call us to confirm how we work with your provider.
What if I do not have dental insurance? We will walk you through costs up front and help you prioritize treatment.
Book Your Visit with a Dentist in Calgary
Make the most of your benefits before they reset. Call Evolution Dental at (403) 208-9965 or book online to schedule your visit in Crowfoot.
