How to Maximize Your HSA/FSA for Dental Care
Published on 3/3/2025
For many Americans, company benefits such as PTO, 401(k), and reimbursements are top of mind. But there are additional benefits that many workers often forget they have access to. We are speaking, of course, about health savings accounts (HSA) and flexible spending accounts (FSA).
While less commonly used, these two accounts are enormously helpful at saving money. The trick is to capitalize on them when available, and to use them when appropriate.
In this guide, we will walk you through all your burning HAS/FSA questions. We’ll also help guide you on how to put them to work when a dental procedure is on the books.
What are an HSA and FSA?
As two benefits sometimes offered by employers, HSAs and FSAs are like a bonus savings account. They are a means of funneling some of your income into savings accounts with a specific purpose. These accounts are separate from your normal bank account. And they often come with a unique debit card to be used when you wish to make a purchase that draws from them.
Why Should I Use an HSA and FSA?
There are myriad reasons why employees are smart to opt into an employer’s FSA and HSA plan. Here are just a few:
They Lower Your Taxable Income
Those who are fluent in finance know that the higher your income, the higher your tax bracket. But with FSAs and HSAs, the money is divested into your account pre-tax, lowering your taxable income level.
Some Employers Offer Contributions
Many employers will disperse funds into employee accounts when they take part in yearly HSA/FSA contributions. And who can say no to free money?
Rollovers
HSAs are a safe, simple, and long-term way of saving money for big purchases (like dental work). The money rolls over each year (unlike FSAs, which must be used during their plan year) so you can access it whenever you like.
HSA/FSA Uses
While you can’t use your HSA or FSA for a trip to the mall, they are a great means of paying for all medical and dental work you may need. The only trick is that work needs to fall under a qualified medical expense, per IRS guidelines.
Common procedures often qualified for HSA or FSA payment include:
- Routine cleanings,
- X-rays,
- Fluoride treatments,
- Fillings,
- Crowns and bridges,
- Dentures,
- Braces,
- And more.
Some cosmetic procedures are sometimes not covered, however, including:
- Teeth whitening,
- Veneers,
- Contouring,
- Non-prescription oral care products,
- Tooth jewelry/gems,
- And more.
However, for routine care and medical procedures, you’re covered and your HSA or FSA will pay for it. This means when it comes time for a potentially expensive procedure, your out of pocket is essentially $0.
As a bonus, some HSA or FSA providers will reimburse for charges you’ve put on your personal credit card. If you have points, this could be a great way to maximize your savings!
Book Your Next Appointment
As you can see, FSA-HSA maximization is truly great at making dental care affordable. So, if you’ve been putting off that cleaning or filling, now you know there are ways to give your wallet less of a hit.
If you’re searching for reliable dentistry in your area, consider Dentologie. Our practice offers dentists who are different by design. And we accept countless common HSA and FSA payments for procedures!