Can I Use an HSA For Dental Crowns?

Health savings accounts (HSAs) are a great way for working families to save money when it comes to large medical purchases. They can help lower your bills and lower your taxable income rate. So, it stands to reason that an involved procedure like dental crown installation would be ripe for an HSA payment, right?

In actuality, it’s not a simple black or white issue. If you’re wondering, “Can I use my HSA for dental crowns?”, we’ve got you covered. Learn all about the relationship between HSAs and dental crowns in our guide.

The Rules Governing HSAs and Dental Expenses

You might be inclined to think that your dentist decides which payment methods they do or don’t accept. But when it comes to HSAs, they’re not quite the same as a credit or debit card.

In fact, an HSA can be used for health-related payments as a replacement for out-of-pocket expenditures.

Some common procedures that are eligible for tax-free HSA payments include:

• Dental cleanings,
• Fillings,
• Braces/orthodontics,
• Root canals,
• And more.

It may be surprising to learn that HSAs are governed by the IRS. But that doesn’t mean the IRS needs to be a middleman when it comes to approval. You’ll be happy to learn permission or authorization are not required when using an HSA for an IRS-approved procedure. However, patients must strictly follow the IRS’ guidelines about how their HSA can and can’t be used.

Remember, an HSA is a means of funneling your income into a pre-tax account. So, it stands to reason the IRS wants to ensure that money is being used for above-board uses. While the IRS doesn’t typically audit HSA spending, they may ask for proof of eligibility when needed.

To that end, the IRS maintains a detailed list of qualified medical expenses. If a procedure, either medical or dental, appears on the list, it is approved for payment via an HSA.

Can an HSA Be Used for Dental Crowns?

But enough beating around the bush. Here’s where things get specific for you.

Thankfully, dental crowns are covered as an approved medical expense under IRS guidelines. However, there is a big but before HSA funds can be dispersed.

The crowns must be used to restore a tooth’s function to qualify as an eligible expense. This means veneers simply for cosmetic purposes might not be covered. But if the procedure is intended to give your mouth back the functionality it needs, you’re good to go.

It’s always best to check with your dentist before undergoing a procedure. They can help you to ensure the services they’re offering are covered by both your dental insurance plan and HSA. When in doubt, simply ask your dentist’s team “Can I use my HSA card for dental crowns” and you’re sure to get a clear answer.

In some cases, a letter of medical necessity (LMN) may be needed from your dentist. This will prove the necessity of the procedure before your HSA is able to cover expenses. But many reputable dentists should be happy to provide such a letter.

Get the HSA-Eligible Dental Care You Need

If you are in need of dental crowns, Dentologie is here to offer expert dentistry services. Our convenient offices in Chicago and Seattle are designed to offer comfort for body and tooth alike. And our practice of expert dental practitioners accepts HSAs as a convenient form of payment.

We are happy to provide what you need to ensure your new crowns are as affordable as they are beautiful. If you’re ready to smile more, consider Dentologie. Book your visit today!