If your dentist told you that you need a filling at your last checkup, you might be tempted to put it off—especially if the tooth isn’t causing pain. However, ignoring a cavity can do more harm than you think. Small dental problems have a way of growing quickly, leading to more complex and expensive treatments. Scheduling your filling before the end of the year not only protects your smile but can also help you save money by maximizing your dental insurance benefits.
The Hidden Risks of Delaying a Filling
When decay first begins, it only affects the outer enamel of your tooth. A quick filling can easily repair the damage and prevent it from spreading. But when left untreated, cavities can burrow deeper into the tooth and reach the inner pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are located. Once that happens, a simple filling may no longer be enough—you could end up needing a root canal or even a dental crown to restore the tooth.
Beyond the physical discomfort, untreated cavities can also affect your overall oral health. Decay can spread to neighboring teeth, cause infection, and even lead to tooth loss in severe cases. What started as a small fix can become a costly and time-consuming procedure.
Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits
One of the best reasons to get your fillings done before the year ends is to make full use of your dental insurance. Most insurance plans operate on a calendar-year basis, which means your benefits reset on January 1st. If you haven’t met your annual maximum or used all your preventive coverage, now’s the time to take advantage.
Typically, dental insurance covers 70–80% of the cost of fillings, making them one of the most affordable restorative treatments available. Once your plan resets, you’ll be starting fresh with new deductibles and limits—so any unused benefits from this year will disappear. By scheduling your appointment now, you’re essentially saving money that would otherwise go to waste.
Financially Smart and Future-Proof
Beyond insurance, getting a filling now can help you avoid much higher expenses down the road. Without treatment, decay can lead to more invasive procedures that are only partially covered—or not covered at all—by dental insurance. By acting early, you protect both your teeth and your wallet.
Plus, the end of the year can be a busy time for dental offices as many patients rush to use their remaining benefits. Scheduling now ensures you’ll get an appointment that works for your calendar without any last-minute stress.
Don’t Wait Until It Hurts
Even if your cavity isn’t causing discomfort yet, pain is often the last symptom to appear. By the time you feel it, significant damage may already have occurred. Taking care of your fillings promptly means less drilling, less discomfort, and more peace of mind heading into the new year.
Protect your smile and your budget by getting your fillings taken care of before your benefits expire—it’s one of the simplest ways to start the new year on a healthy note.
About the Practice
Family Dentistry of Stuart provides comprehensive dental care in a welcoming and patient-focused environment. Led by Dr. Broaddus and Dr. Laffita, the practice offers a full range of services—from preventive checkups to restorative and cosmetic treatments. Our team is dedicated to helping patients achieve long-lasting oral health and make the most of their insurance benefits before the year ends.
Call us at (772) 286-3088 or request an appointment online.