The New Year brings fresh starts — and for many patients, it also means dental insurance benefits have officially reset. We typically work with Delta Dental Premier and United Concordia/BCBS of ND, but we can submit claims for most dental insurances.
If you have dental insurance, January 1st generally marks the beginning of a new benefit year. That means your annual maximum, deductible, and preventive coverage have started over. Now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with your trusted Fargo-Moorhead area dentist and make the most of your renewed benefits.
What Does “Benefits Reset” Mean?
Most dental insurance plans in North Dakota and Minnesota operate on a calendar year. When your plan resets:
- Your annual maximum renews
- Your deductible starts over
- Covered preventive visits (cleanings, exams, x-rays) reset
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) often receive new contributions
If you postponed dental treatment last year because you reached your insurance maximum, now is the ideal time to move forward with care.
Schedule Your Preventive Dental Cleaning Early in the Year
Many dental insurance plans cover preventive care at 100%. Patients are encouraged to schedule their first cleaning early in the year to stay ahead of potential dental problems. Some dental insurance plans even cover up to 4 dental cleanings a year!
Routine preventive visits allow us to:
✔ Remove plaque and calculus buildup
✔ Detect cavities early
✔ Monitor gum health
✔ Provide oral cancer screenings
✔ Update digital x-rays if needed
Booking early also ensures you get convenient appointment times before schedules fill up.
Make the Most of Your Annual Maximum
Your annual maximum is the total amount your dental insurance will pay toward treatment each year. Starting treatment early in the year allows patients to:
- Complete larger treatment plans
- Spread appointments across the year if needed
- Maximize insurance benefits
- Reduce out-of-pocket costs
If you’ve been recommended treatment such as crowns, fillings, periodontal therapy, or restorative care, January is a great time to begin.
Plan Around Your Deductible
Because deductibles reset in January, completing treatment within the same benefit year can help you avoid paying the deductible multiple times.
Our team is happy to review your insurance coverage and explain how to strategically plan your care.
Use Your FSA or HSA for Dental Care
If you contribute to a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), the New Year often brings new funds that can be used for:
- Restorative dental treatments
- Periodontal therapy
- Custom night guards or mouth guards
- Some cosmetic dental procedures
Using these funds for dental care is a smart way to invest in your oral & overall health.
Avoid the Year-End Rush
Many patients wait until November or December to use their dental benefits — which often leads to limited appointment availability.
Scheduling now allows you to:
- Secure convenient appointment times
- Complete treatment comfortably
- Avoid last-minute insurance deadlines
- Plan financially throughout the year
If you’re looking for a new dental office in the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area, our team is welcoming new patients and is here to help you maximize your dental insurance benefits and keep your smile healthy all year long.
Contact our office today to schedule your appointment and take full advantage of your renewed dental benefits.