Can I Use My FSA for Dental Treatment?

What You'll Learn

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is an employer-sponsored benefit that lets you set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical and dental expenses. Contributions reduce your taxable income, and withdrawals for eligible expenses are tax-free. Unlike an HSA, FSAs are not tied to a high-deductible health plan — many employees with traditional health insurance can participate. The key difference is that FSA funds are subject to a use-it-or-lose-it rule: unspent funds typically expire at the end of the plan year.

Most dental treatments qualify as FSA-eligible expenses. Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals), orthodontics (braces and Invisalign), periodontal treatment (deep cleanings), oral surgery (extractions, implants), and dentures all qualify. The same IRS definition applies as for HSAs: the treatment must diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent a dental disease or condition.

FSA funds must generally be used by the end of your plan year or you forfeit the remaining balance. Some plans offer a grace period of up to 2.5 months into the new year, and some allow a rollover of up to $640 (2024 limit, adjusted annually). Check your specific plan documents to understand your deadline. If you have a balance approaching year-end, scheduling dental work before the deadline is a smart way to use those funds.

Most FSAs come with a debit card. Present it at checkout just like any other payment card. Keep your receipts — your FSA administrator may request documentation to verify that the expense was eligible. If you pay out of pocket, you can submit a reimbursement claim to your FSA administrator with the receipt and a description of the service. Some plans require an explanation of benefits (EOB) from your insurance company as well.