The end of the year brings a critical deadline for orthodontic insurance benefits. Many dental insurance plans reset on January 1st, meaning any unused coverage, remaining deductibles, and annual maximums disappear if you don’t use them. Understanding how to make the most of your orthodontic insurance before December 31st can save you hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.
At Clemente Orthodontics, we help families throughout New Jersey maximize their insurance benefits every year. Our team works directly with insurance providers to ensure you receive the coverage you deserve. As Sapphire Invisalign® providers, we make orthodontic care accessible through flexible payment options and insurance coordination. We’re here to guide you through the process so you can start treatment without unnecessary stress.
How Can You Maximize Your Orthodontic Insurance Benefits?
To maximize orthodontic insurance benefits, understand your plan’s coverage. Most dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits separate from general dentistry coverage. These benefits typically have a lifetime maximum ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. Your annual deductible may also apply before your coverage kicks in.
Many families don’t realize their insurance benefits expire at year’s end. When you delay treatment into the new year, you essentially lose the opportunity to apply this year’s remaining benefits toward orthodontic care. Starting treatment now means you can take advantage of both this year’s and next year’s benefits, effectively doubling your coverage for major procedures like braces or Invisalign®.
What Happens to Unused Orthodontic Insurance Benefits?
Unused dental insurance benefits don’t roll over. Like a gym membership, if you don’t use your coverage, that money is wasted. Millions of Americans lose dental benefits each year, forfeiting coverage paid for through premiums.
When your plan resets in January, your deductible resets, and any progress toward your annual maximum is lost. For orthodontic care, this timing matters even more because treatment costs are substantial. By scheduling your complimentary consultation before year-end, you position yourself to use current benefits while planning for future coverage.
Understanding Your Coverage
Before scheduling treatment, review your insurance policy to understand:
- Your lifetime orthodontic maximum and how much remains available
- Whether your annual deductible has been met this year
- What percentage of your plan covers orthodontic procedures
Our team at Clemente Orthodontics performs complimentary benefits checks to help you understand exactly what your insurance covers. We work with all insurance companies and stay up to date on policy changes to ensure you receive the maximum benefits.
Why Should You Start Treatment Before the New Year?
Starting treatment before December 31st lets you use this year’s deductible and benefits now, then access next year’s coverage. This approach spreads your costs across two periods.
Early orthodontic treatment gives health benefits, too. Aligned teeth are easier to clean and reduce the risk of cavities. Fixing bite issues can also prevent jaw pain and headaches. Addressing problems early prevents more serious ones later.
Flexible Payment Options
We believe financial concerns shouldn’t prevent anyone from receiving quality orthodontic care. Beyond insurance coordination, we offer flexible payment plans and financing options tailored to your budget. Many patients find Invisalign® treatment costs similar to those of traditional braces, while offering added benefits such as removability and a virtually invisible appearance.
Schedule Your Consultation at Clemente Orthodontics to Maximize Benefits
Don’t wait–use your orthodontic insurance benefits before they expire. With three convenient locations in New City, Woodcliff Lake, and Ridgewood, Clemente Orthodontics helps families maximize coverage and achieve healthy smiles. Schedule a consultation to ensure you get the most from your plan while we create a treatment strategy tailored to your needs and budget.
Don’t let valuable insurance benefits go to waste this year. Contact Clemente Orthodontics today through our contact form to schedule your complimentary consultation. Make the most of your orthodontic insurance and begin your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Medically reviewed by:
The Orthodontic Team at Clemente Orthodontics
January 21, 2026
At Clemente Orthodontics our expert dental team takes great care in providing orthodontic treatment and Invisalign solutions for our patients.
