Use It or Lose It: Your Dental Benefits Reset December 31
Don’t let your dental benefits go to waste. Your dental benefits reset date is comming soon, and unused benefits may not carry over. Whether you’re due for a visit or looking for a new dentist after a move, find a 123Dentist clinic and make the most of your eligible coverage.
6 minute read

Why Book Now
- Many dental plans reset at year-end, and unused benefits typically don’t carry over.
- Maximize your coverage — Make the most of the benefits your plan may include before they reset.
- Catch issues early — Regular dental visits can help catch potential issues early, before they become more serious and costly to treat.
- Beat the year-end rush — Appointments can fill up quickly toward year-end, so book early for more flexibility when choosing a time that works for you.
- Switch without losing momentum —Moved recently or looking for a different service? Find a 123Dentist clinic near you to continue your dental care and make the most of your eligible benefits before they reset.
How It Works
- Find a clinic — Search for a 123Dentist clinic near you.
- Book your visit — Reach out to the clinic or book online to choose a time that works for you.
- Bring your plan details — Have your insurance card, member ID, or benefits portal information ready. The clinic team can help you understand what your plan may cover.
- Continue your care — If you’ve moved to a new area or are switching dentists, ask about transferring your dental records and scheduling any recommended treatment before your benefits reset.
Can I Use My Remaining Benefits at a New Dentist?
Yes! Your dental insurance is tied to you and your employer’s plan—not to a single dental office. The Canadian Dental Association notes that dental plans generally allow beneficiaries to choose their own care provider. As long as your new clinic accepts your insurance provider and the treatment is eligible, you can seamlessly use your remaining annual balance with them.
Good to Know: You do not need to officially “transfer” your benefits to a new clinic. Simply bring your insurance card, and the administrative team can help verify your remaining coverage.
To ensure a smooth transition and make the most of your end-of-year benefits, bring the following to your first appointment:
- Your insurance details: Plan provider, member ID, and group number.
- Photo ID.
- Your goals: Let your new dentist know what questions or dental concerns you currently have.
- Previous dental records or X-rays, if available and relevant.
- Tip to save time during your first visit: Arriving a few minutes early gives you time to fill out new patient forms.
Why Chose 123Dentist to Use Dental Benefits Before Reset Date
Whether you’re continuing care at your current clinic, have recently moved, or are looking for a new dental service, 123Dentist makes it easier to find a clinic that fits your needs. With clinics across Canada, you can explore your options and find a team to support your dental health.
- Convenient locations across Canada — With 500+ dental clinics, there’s likely one close to home or work.
- New patients welcome — Many 123Dentist clinics are welcoming new patients.
- Friendly local teams — Your clinic team takes time to get to know you and understand your dental needs.
- Easy to get started — Find a clinic near you in just a few clicks.
- Support with your coverage — Clinic team can help you review your plan details and next. steps, as well as support you with treatment estimation and possible out of pocket payments.
- CDCP-Friendly & Experienced in Direct Billing — Find CDCP Dentist Near You was never that easy.
What Treatments Can I Use My Remaining Dental Benefits On?
Coverage levels vary by plan; preventive care is often covered at a higher percentage than major treatments, and some major treatments require pre-authorization. If you are covered by the CDCP, different types of limits apply, such as frequency caps and pre-authorization requirements. Please see below for a general breakdown of how dental insurance covers different types of treatments. You can always check your specific limits by contacting your insurance provider or with the assistance of the dental team at your clinic
| Category | Coverage Status | Examples of Covered Services | Notes |
| Preventive & Diagnostic | Covered | Cleanings (scaling/polishing), complete/routine exams, X-rays (periapical, bitewing, panoramic), fluoride, sealants. | Typically covered at the highest percentage (often 80-100% on private plans; fully eligible under CDCP). |
| Emergency Dentistry | Covered | Emergency exams, treating abscesses, pain control, temporary fillings, tooth and root extractions. | Can be used immediately without pre-authorization on most private plans and the CDCP. |
| Restorative Services | Covered (with limits) | Permanent fillings, root canals (endodontics), non-surgical gum disease management (periodontics). | Often covered at some % on private plans. CDCP covers these, but retreatments of root canals require pre-authorization. |
| Major Restorative (Prosthodontics) | Covered (often requires Pre-Auth) | Crowns, complete and partial dentures, denture repairs/relines. | Usually heavily restricted or limited. CDCP requires pre-authorization for crowns and partial dentures, and sets strict frequency limits (e.g., 1 crown per tooth every 8 years). |
| Orthodontics | Plan Dependent | Braces, clear aligners (Invisalign). | Very few private plans cover this for adults. The CDCP only covers it if deemed strictly “medically necessary” and it requires pre-authorization. |
| Cosmetic Dentistry | Not Covered | Teeth whitening, cosmetic veneers, bonding purely for aesthetics. | Neither private group benefits nor the CDCP will cover procedures done strictly for cosmetic/aesthetic reasons. |