In our previous post, we encouraged you to schedule a visit to Advanced Dental Center to take advantage of your dental insurance. Today, we want to discuss something more specific.
Your policy may include a flexible savings account (FSA). If it does, this is money that is set aside solely for health-related purchases. This money can be used for a wide variety of goods and services.
However, it’s important to remember that these accounts are intentionally set up to be “use it or lose it.” In other words, if you do not spend that money within a specified time frame, the money in your account goes away.
Our dental professionals in Florence, SC want you to be as happy and as healthy as you can be. We also don’t want you to lose the benefit of having an FSA. If you have a tooth that needs to be repaired or replaced or you just want to prevent problems, today is the day to call (843) 588-1919 to make an appointment with us.
What Can You Get
Many dental expenses — but not all — can be paid with FSA. According to the IRS:
You can include in medical expenses the amounts you pay for the prevention and alleviation of dental disease. Preventive treatment includes the services of a dental hygienist or dentist for such procedures as teeth cleaning, the application of sealants, and fluoride treatments to prevent tooth decay. Treatment to alleviate dental disease includes services of a dentist for procedures such as X-rays, fillings … extractions, dentures, and other dental ailments. But see Teeth Whitening under What Expenses Aren’t Includible ….
In other words, many services and treatments that qualify as preventive or restorative care can be paid for with FSA funds. This includes:
- Dental cleanings and exams
- Preventive services such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments
- Dental fillings
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Dentures
- Dental implants
- Clear aligners, in some cases
- TMJ treatments
This isn’t a complete list, but it does give you some idea about how you could use your FSA to maintain or improve your oral health. Since your oral health also affects your overall health, this can have more benefits than you may realize.
What Isn’t Covered
As a general rule, you cannot use your FSA to cover cosmetic services. As noted above, this means you can’t pay for teeth whitening with your flexible spending account. That also may mean you can’t use your FSA for veneers, tooth bonding, or gummy smile treatments.
Some services may have both cosmetic and restorative purposes. In those cases, we welcome you to talk to us or to the administrator of your FSA about what expenses may qualify.
Don’t Lose Your Money Or Your Smile
FSA can be a valuable benefit for your health, but it doesn’t help if you don’t use your funds. Per federal law, you lose access to your funds if you don’t use them within the designated time period. Don’t lose your money, and don’t lose your smile.
If you have an FSA balance, make plans to visit Advanced Dental Center in Florence, SC. Call (843) 588-1919 today or fill out our online form. We hope to see you soon!