Annual maximums are the max amount the carrier will pay on your behalf. These are “use it or lose it” benefits. Most plans have a $1500 max, so it is important to not put off treatment if you still have benefits remaining. Savvy patients will schedule procedures before the end of the year so they can take advantage of all of the dental dollars they are entitled too. If it’s fall and you still have benefits left, speak with your dentist and see if there are concerns that should be addressed prior to the year end. It’s often better to replace and old filling or place a crown on a cracked tooth before it becomes an emergency and ultimately more costly. Yes, it’s true; a stitch in time saves nine.