Use It or Lose It: Help Patients Make the Most of Their Year-End Dental Benefits 🦷
The end of the year is quickly approaching — and that means it’s time for dental practices to help patients make the most of their remaining benefits, reimbursements, or savings accounts before they reset.
Whether your office is in-network or out-of-network, you can use this opportunity to educate patients, strengthen relationships, and finish the year with a healthy, full schedule.
1. Remind Patients That Time Runs Out
Most dental plans, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) reset on January 1st — which means any unused funds are lost.
- If your patients use in-network insurance, remind them to schedule pending treatments or hygiene visits before their benefits renew.
- If your practice is out-of-network, let patients know they may still qualify for PPO reimbursement or can use their FSA/HSA dollars to cover treatment before their balance resets.
It’s not about selling — it’s about helping patients take advantage of what they’ve already earned.
2. Educate Without Pressure
Patients appreciate reminders that sound helpful, not pushy.
Try something simple and genuine like:
“Many dental plans and savings accounts reset soon. Scheduling now ensures you don’t lose the care or funds available to you this year.”
This creates awareness while keeping your tone friendly and caring. 👩⚕️
3. Start Early & Stay Consistent
Don’t wait until the last week of December — by then, most patients’ calendars are packed.
Start your outreach in early to mid-November and stay consistent with reminders.
- Email campaigns: share the benefits of scheduling now
- Text blasts: short, timely nudges with a clear call to schedule
- Social posts: light and friendly reminders that keep your practice top-of-mind
Repetition builds results — one message isn’t enough.
4. Personalize the Message
A little personalization can make your outreach feel more thoughtful and effective.
- 🦷 For insurance patients, mention preventive visits or treatment follow-ups.
- 💙 For out-of-network patients, highlight how FSA/HSA funds can be applied to dental care before they reset.
“Hi [Name], your benefits or FSA dollars reset soon! Let’s get your visit scheduled before they expire.”
That one small detail can make a big difference.
5. Get Your Team Involved
Everyone on your team can help deliver the message — front desk, hygienists, and assistants.
Encourage them to mention it during calls, checkouts, and chairside conversations.
You could even make it a friendly challenge — see who can book the most “Use It or Lose It” appointments before the new year. It keeps things positive and goal-driven.
6. Make It Easy for Patients to Take Action
No matter how you reach out — email, text, or social — make sure patients know exactly what to do next.
Use simple CTAs like:
“Click below to schedule your appointment before benefits reset!”
“Scan the QR code to see year-end care options.”
Every reminder should lead directly to action.
7. Download the Free “Use It or Lose It” Campaign Kit
To make your end-of-year campaign even easier, we’ve created a free resource kit with:
- Video scripts for social posts or office use
- Email and text templates ready to personalize
- Social media captions and design templates
💌 Have Questions or Need Help?
If you’d like help customizing your Use It or Lose It campaign or want to see how other practices are running theirs, reach out anytime — we’re happy to share examples and ideas that fit your practice’s goals.
We’re here to help you end the year strong — with healthy patients and a full schedule. 💙
