Annual maximum

An annual maximum is the most a dental plan or policy will pay toward the cost of your dental services in a year. After the plan pays that amount, you pay the full cost of further care, though it may still be at the discounted rate if your dentist is in network.

The ADA notes that many dental plans have this limit even when the patient's costs exceed it. It can be set per person or per family. The limit applies to the plan year, which may not match the calendar year.

If you need larger treatment, the maximum can matter. Ask your plan how it counts basic and major services. A pre-determination may show what the plan expects to pay. See also deductible.