FSA And Cosmetic Dentistry: Get Answers To The Questions You Have

A flexible spending account is an account where you can set aside money for health and dental spending. The money is not taxed, which is a huge benefit. However, if you don't use the money in your account by the end of the year, you lose it, so you have to set aside the right amount. If you have leftover money or want a cosmetic dental procedure done, you may have questions about FSAs and cosmetic dentistry. Here are a few of the questions you may have and the answers.

Can You Use an FSA Account to Pay for Cosmetic Dental Procedures?

As a general rule of thumb, you cannot use an FSA account to pay for dental procedures that are strictly cosmetic. This includes veneers and teeth whitening. However, if there is a reason you need the procedure done, you can use your FSA account. For example, if you have a tooth that needs to be pulled because it is rotted, you can use your FSA account to pay for the extraction process and a new dental implant. But, if you want to pull a tooth that is discolored or cracked and replaced it with an implant, this wouldn't be covered.

Can You Use An FSA to Pay for Braces?

Braces are a gray area with flexible spending accounts. Braces are used to shift teeth and straighten them. This can be done for cosmetic reasons, dental health reasons or a combination of both. When teeth are straightened, it can make cleaning the mouth and reaching teeth easier. This can prevent tooth decay, periodontal disease and tooth loss. As such, depending on the position of the teeth and how easy or difficult they are to clean, braces may be covered. Speak with an orthodontist before setting aside money in an FSA account to determine if you or your child's braces may be able to be paid with an FSA account.

Can You Use an FSA Account to Pay for White Fillings?

If you want your fillings to be invisible, you may be looking at having white composite fillings used. If you are going this route, you may be wondering if this is considered a cosmetic treatment and whether you can use your FSA account for it. If the fillings are needed, you can use your FSA to pay for composite fillings. This is because there are many benefits to composite over amalgam and more people are opting for these fillings due to these benefits.

Taking full advantage of a flexible spending account can save you money. However, it is important that you understand what is and is not covered by this account, especially if the treatments you are considering are cosmetic. This can help you avoid putting too much money in the account that can be lost if not used by the end of the year. Contact a company like MyoTech Dental & Implant Center to learn more.