By: Richard L. Smith
With the end of 2026 quickly approaching, New Jersey residents with dental insurance are being reminded to check their benefits before valuable coverage potentially goes unused.
I’ll be the first to admit that over the years, I haven’t always taken full advantage of my dental benefits. Between work, family, and everyday responsibilities, those two annual cleanings and routine checkups sometimes slipped right past me.
I’m sure I’m not alone. With the end of the year approaching, it’s a good reminder to check those benefits and schedule any appointments you may have missed.
For many people, routine dental cleanings, examinations, X-rays and even recommended treatments are often pushed aside because of busy schedules.
However, delaying those appointments could mean missing out on benefits they've already paid for.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), many dental insurance plans operate on a calendar-year basis, meaning unused annual benefits generally do not carry over into the following year.
That makes December 31 an important deadline for thousands of insured residents.
The ADA reports that preventive dental services, including routine examinations and cleanings, are often covered at 100 percent under many insurance plans, although individual coverage varies.
Residents who have postponed fillings, crowns or other recommended dental procedures may also want to contact their dentist to determine whether their remaining 2026 benefits can help cover treatment costs.
Dental professionals emphasize that regular visits are important for identifying cavities, gum disease and other oral health concerns before they develop into more serious problems.
With the holiday season approaching, dental offices may also experience increased demand as patients attempt to schedule appointments before their coverage resets.
Residents are encouraged to contact their dental insurance providers, review their remaining benefits and schedule any necessary appointments as soon as possible.
Not every dental plan expires on December 31, and some offer limited benefit rollovers, making it important to verify individual coverage.