As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at your dental and vision benefits. Whether you get insurance through work or purchase your own individual plan, November and December are prime months to review your current coverage, understand what’s changing for next year, and make sure you’re set up for a healthy start to 2026.
In this post, we’ll walk through how to:
Before making any changes, start by taking stock of what you currently have. Ask yourself:
What plan am I enrolled in? Check whether you have individual coverage, employer-sponsored benefits, or a family plan.
How often did I use my benefits this year? Look at how many cleanings, exams, or glasses you used — and whether your coverage met your needs.
Did I reach my annual maximum or deductible? This helps you gauge if your plan fits your budget or if you might need different coverage levels next year.
Tip: If you didn’t take full advantage of preventive care this year (like dental cleanings or eye exams), schedule them now before your benefits reset.
Insurance plans often update annually, sometimes with small adjustments to premiums, coverage limits, or provider networks. Knowing what’s new before January 1 helps you avoid surprises.
Here’s what to look for in your 2026 plan documents or employer open enrollment materials:
Premiums: Monthly costs can shift slightly year over year.
Deductibles and annual maximums: Some plans may increase these to reflect inflation or new coverage structures.
Network updates: Make sure your preferred dentist and eye doctor are still in-network for 2026.
Added benefits: Some dental plans are expanding coverage for preventive and diagnostic services, and vision plans may now include digital eye strain or blue light protection benefits.
Tip: If you’re enrolled in your employer’s benefits, review all the materials during open enrollment. It’s your best chance to make updates before the next plan year begins.
If you purchase your own dental or vision plan, now’s the time to see what’s available for 2026.
When comparing options, look at more than just the premium:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Coverage levels | Preventive care is often covered at 100%, but look at what percentage your plan covers for fillings, crowns, or glasses. |
| Annual maximum | This is the most your plan will pay each year. If you anticipate more dental work, a higher maximum may be worth it. |
| Network dentists and eye doctors | Staying in-network means lower costs and no surprise billing. |
| Waiting periods | Some plans have a waiting period for major services, so check the details before you switch. |
Before you flip the calendar to 2026, take a few steps to maximize your 2025 coverage:
Use any remaining preventive visits (cleanings, exams, or eye checks). These are often covered in full and don’t roll over.
Schedule treatments early. If you’ve met your deductible or are close to your annual maximum, you may save money by completing procedures before your benefits reset.
Use flexible spending account (FSA) dollars. Most FSAs require you to use funds by year-end or you may lose them.
Update your contact and dependent information. Make sure your plan includes everyone who needs coverage for 2026.
Tip: Dentists and eye doctors get busier in December, so book your appointments early to avoid last-minute scheduling stress.
Planning ahead now means fewer surprises, and fewer missed opportunities, when January rolls around. Reviewing your dental and vision coverage is one of the simplest ways to start the new year with confidence, knowing your smile and sight are protected.
Whether you’re keeping your current plan or exploring new options, Delta Dental of Tennessee is here to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget.
Start your 2026 planning today, your future self (and your smile) will thank you.