Starting with dental insurance can feel confusing—like landing in a new place without a map.

Many people wait months to use their coverage or only think about it when something hurts. The first 90 days, however, are an important window for setting up care and understanding how your dental benefits actually work.

This guide explains how to use dental benefits during the early stages, what to prioritize, what to expect, and how dental coverage supports preventive care before problems appear.

Whether you’re new to dental insurance or simply haven’t used your benefits in a while, these steps can help you build a strong foundation for long‑term oral health.

Key Takeaways:

• The first 90 days are a great time to start, because preventive services—cleanings, exams, X‑rays—are typically covered right away in many plans.
• Waiting periods are common for non‑preventive services: basic care often three to six months; major care often six to twelve months (plan‑specific).
• About one in four U.S. adults has untreated tooth decay; regular preventive visits are associated with catching problems earlier and reducing risk of untreated decay.
• Using in‑network dentists typically lowers out‑of‑pocket costs due to pre‑negotiated fees with your plan.
• Daily habits (brushing, flossing, limiting sugar) help reduce the risk of gum disease and bigger treatments later.

When Should I Use My Dental Benefits After Enrolling?

Use them early—before “I’ll schedule it later” turns into six months from now. Ideally in the first 90 days. Preventive services like cleanings, exams, and routine X‑rays are generally covered from day one on many plans. Even if other treatments have waiting periods, you can almost always start with preventive care right away.

What Should I Know About My Dental Plan in the First 90 Days?

At the start of your appointment, it helps to review the basics with the front desk. Arriving a few minutes early is less painful than a surprise bill later. You will want to cover topics such as: 

• Which preventive services are included in your insurance (cleanings, exams, X‑rays) and how often you can use them.
• Whether your dentist is in network (which usually translates to lower costs).
• Whether any waiting periods apply to basic or major services

Boost your knowledge by reading our blog about what’s (typically) covered on my dental plan and what’s not?

Should I Use an In‑Network Dentist?

Yes. Think of in‑network dentists as the most straightforward path to using your benefits—costs are usually lower and more predictable. In‑network dentists agree to set fees with your plan, which is not the case with out-of-network providers.

If you’re a Solstice member, you can find an in‑network dentist right here.

What Dental Services Are Covered Right Away?

Preventive care is typically covered immediately. Depending on your plan, which can include any services that support early detection and education, such as:

• Oral cancer screenings
• Periodontal evaluations
• X‑rays when clinically needed.

Learn more about the difference between preventive, basic, and major services here.

For specifics, log in to your member portal. There you will see the details of what apply to your plan (benefits, deductibles, remaining allowances).

Did You Know?

Adults with dental benefits use preventive care more often, and ADA‑summarized research links regular preventive care with lower future treatment costs and fewer urgent visits over time.

What Is a Dental Insurance Waiting Period?

A waiting period is the time you must be enrolled before certain services are covered. Preventive care is usually immediate. Basic services often have three to six months, and major services often have six to twelve months (based on the plan).

Waiting periods help keep coverage affordable by discouraging short‑term enrollment for costly procedures and spreading costs over time.

Read about dental insurance waiting periods and how they differ from effective dates here.

How Pre-Determinations Can Help You Plan Ahead

Your dentist may recommend major treatment, like crowns, bridges, or implants. Instead of feeling pressured to decide on the spot you have the choice to ask about a pre-determination of benefits.

What is it?
A pre-determination is an estimate your dentist submits to your insurance company before treatment begins. It includes details like the recommended procedure, X-rays, and your dentist’s notes.

Why it matters:

• Know what’s covered: You’ll see what your plan will pays and what you’ll owe out of pocket.
• Avoid surprises: Helps prevent unexpected bills for major services.
• Plan your timing: If waiting periods apply, you’ll know when coverage kicks in.

Think of it as a roadmap for big decisions—especially helpful during your first 90 days when you’re learning your plan and preparing for future care.

What Questions Should I Ask During My First Dental Appointment?

Ask the dental team:

• What care do I need soon vs. later?
• Is this service preventive, basic, or major?
• Are follow‑ups recommended—and when?
• How might my insurance apply to this treatment?

Questions to ask your dentist: a member conversation guide.

How Can I Protect My Dental Benefits at Home?

Daily habits matter, so be sure to:

• Brush twice a day, floss once a day
• Limit sugary foods and drinks.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months.

Healthy routines support your dental benefits and help prevent bigger issues later. For more ideas, check out our list of dental habits that could be affecting your teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When should I use my dental benefits?
Right away—especially in the first 90 days of dental coverage. Preventive care is typically covered from day one and helps prevent larger issues later.

What dental services are covered right away?
Cleanings, exams, and routine X‑rays are generally covered immediately on many plans. Some plans also include screenings and periodontal evaluations.

How often should you use preventive care?
Many plans cover two preventive visits per year, aligning with the common six‑month exam schedule. Check your plan and ask your dentist what’s right for you.

What is a dental insurance waiting period?
It’s the time you must be enrolled before certain services are covered. Preventive care is usually immediate; basic and major services often require three to twelve months, depending on the plan.

Should I use an in‑network dentist?
Yes. In‑network providers usually mean paying pre‑negotiated rates, which helps reduce costs and avoid surprise bills.

Once you understand your dental plan, the path forward becomes much clearer. Starting early, focusing on preventive care, and knowing how your benefits work helps you avoid surprises and stay on course. Think of the first 90 days as your map—setting the route for healthier habits all year long.

Disclaimer: Benefits, coverage, waiting periods, deductibles, allowances, and provider networks vary by plan and carrier. This guide is for general education only and does not change your plan terms. For your specific coverage, please visit your member portal and review your plan documents.