End-of-Year Dental Checklist: 6 Things to Do Before the New Year

The holiday season is full of celebrations, travel, and year-end busyness, but it’s also the perfect time to check in on your oral health. As we head into a new year, taking a few simple steps now can help you start 2026 with a stronger, healthier smile. At Brightway Dental, we encourage our patients to make the most of their coverage, stay on track with their dental goals, and give their smiles the attention they deserve. 

Here’s your essential End-of-Year Dental Checklist to help you wrap up 2025 with confidence. 

1. Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits Before They Expire 

In most insurance plans, dental benefits reset on January 1. That means any unused cleanings, exams, or coverage amounts don’t roll over, they disappear. 

If you haven’t used your remaining benefits yet, now is the time. Many patients schedule: 

• A routine cleaning or exam 
• X-rays if they’re due 
• Necessary fillings or restorative work 
• Periodontal cleanings, if part of your plan 

Taking advantage of your benefits now can save you money, prevent future issues, and ensure you get the care you’re already paying for. 

2. Schedule (or Finalize) Your Preventive Cleaning 

Preventive cleanings are one of the most important steps you can take to maintain your oral health. Even if you brush and floss consistently, plaque and tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach places. 

A year-end cleaning can help: 

• Remove buildup before it becomes a bigger problem 
• Reduce the risk of gum disease 
• Brighten your smile for holiday photos 
• Give your dentist a chance to spot early signs of issues 

If it’s been six months (or longer) since your last cleaning, make sure to get one on the calendar before the year ends. 

3. Review Your Treatment Plan or Upcoming Dental Needs

Have you been delaying a recommended treatment? The end of the year is a great time to revisit your dental plan and knock out anything still on your to-do list. 

Common year-end treatments include: 

• Fillings 
• Crowns 
• Dental bonding 
• Extractions 
• Night guards for grinding 

By taking care of these now, you reduce your risk of pain, emergencies, or bigger problems down the road. 

4. Refresh Your Oral Hygiene Routine 

As life gets busy toward the holidays, it’s easy to fall out of routine, but your teeth still deserve consistent care. A year-end reset is a great way to build better habits heading into January. 

Consider updating: 

• Your toothbrush (or electric brush head) 
• Your floss or floss picks 
• Mouthwash tailored to your needs 
• Fluoride toothpaste for extra cavity protection 

Small improvements now can make a big impact in the year ahead. 

 

5. Protect Your Smile During a Busy, High-Stress Season

The end of the year often brings stress with holiday planning, travel, work deadlines, and long to-do lists. Stress can lead to oral health issues such as: 

• Teeth grinding or clenching 
• Jaw tension 
• Canker sores 
• Forgetting routine hygiene 

If you’ve noticed morning headaches, jaw discomfort, or chipped teeth, talk to us about solutions like night guards or ways to manage grinding. Protecting your smile now helps prevent unnecessary wear and damage. 

6. Start Planning Your Dental Goals for 2026

A new year is a fresh start and a great time to prioritize your dental goals. Whether you’re looking to improve your smile’s appearance or focus on long-term oral health, planning ahead gives you the best results. 

Popular dental goals patients set for the new year include: 

• Whitening treatments 
• Invisalign or orthodontic care 
• Replacing missing teeth with implants or bridges
• Committing to routine preventive visits 
• Improving gum health 
• Upgrading to an electric toothbrush 

Let us know your goals and we’ll help you create a personalized plan to achieve them. 

Begin the New Year with a Brighter, Healthier Smile

Taking care of your dental needs before the year ends isn’t just practical, but it’s one of the best gifts you can give yourself. With just a few small steps, you can maximize your benefits, prevent future issues, and feel confident heading into 2026. At Brightway Dental, we’re here to support your smile every step of the way. 

Ready to schedule your end-of-year appointment? 

Request an appointment or call our office at (402) 413-2299 today to schedule your visit.