Straighten Your Smile and Save: Yes, You Can Use Your FSA or HSA for Braces or Invisalign!

Straighten Your Smile and Save: Yes, You Can Use Your FSA or HSA for Braces or Invisalign!

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Karen Conn of Bryn Mawr Orthodontics reminds the community that a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Spending Account (HSA) benefit can be used to pay for orthodontic treatment

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by Dr. Karen Conn, DMD, MS

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As the end of the year approaches, many of us have unused balances in our FSA or HSA plans that need to be used by year-end.  And, it is also the time of year when we need to decide how much to allocate to the plan in 2024.  Many patients are surprised to learn that you can use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Spending Account (HSA) to pay for orthodontic treatment, including braces and Invisalign, for children and adults, which makes this the “most wonderful time of the year” to get started on your dream smile.

That's right!  Most orthodontic treatments, including braces, Invisalign, expanders, and retainers, are considered eligible expenses under most FSA plans.  This means you can pay for your treatment with pre-tax dollars, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket costs.  Similarly, a Health Spending Account (HSA) is another great way for you to set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses, including orthodontic treatment.

With the end of the year approaching, many FSA and HSA plans have funds that expire if not used by December 31st.  Don't let those valuable dollars go to waste!  Applying those funds to a beautiful, healthy smile is an investment in your or your child’s overall well-being and confidence.

Here are some additional benefits of using your FSA or HSA for orthodontic treatment:

1. Use it or Lose it:

Many FSAs and HSAs have a "use it or lose it" rule at the end of the plan year.  So, why let that hard-earned money go to waste?  Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your health and happiness, and using your FSA or HSA is a smart way to maximize its value.

2. Get a Head Start on Treatment:

Starting your orthodontic journey before the year ends allows you to spread out the cost across two calendar years and maximize your FSA or HSA benefits.  You can schedule consultations, make initial payments, and even get your braces or aligners put on before the new year arrives.

3. Save Money on Taxes:

By using your FSA or HSA for orthodontic treatment, you're essentially paying for your smile with pre-tax dollars.  That means you'll owe less on your taxes next year, making your new smile even sweeter!

4. Improve Your Oral Health:

If your New Year’s resolution is to be healthier in 2024, remember that Orthodontics isn't just about aesthetics.  It can also improve your bite, prevent gum disease, and boost your confidence.  Straight teeth are easier to clean, leading to better overall oral health.  Orthodontic treatment can have a major impact on your health and appearance.

5. Choose from a Variety of Treatment Options:

We offer a wide range of options, from traditional braces to Invisalign, to suit your individual needs and budget.  We can help you find the perfect solution to achieve the smile you deserve.

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Ready to take the first step towards a straighter, healthier smile?  Here's what you can do:

1. Check your FSA or HSA plan details: Contact your employer to confirm your remaining balance and eligible expenses for orthodontic treatment.
2. Schedule a consultation: Many orthodontists offer free consultations to discuss your needs and treatment options.  During a consultation, we can also help you estimate your treatment costs and determine how much you can save by using your FSA or HSA.
3. Make the most of your FSA or HSA funds: Schedule your treatment to begin before December 31st to maximize the use of your expiring FSA or HSA dollars.

Don't let the end of the year pass you by with unused FSA or HSA benefits – invest in yourself and your smile.  A beautiful smile is a lifetime investment, and using your FSA or HSA to achieve it is a smart and rewarding decision.

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Karen Conn, DMD, MS is a Board-certified orthodontist and co-owner of Bryn Mawr Orthodontics (Bryn Mawr, PA), where she specializes in Invisalign and braces for children, teens and adults.  She has been recognized as a Philadelphia Magazine Top Dentist, Main Line Today Top Dentist, Suburban Family Top Orthodontist, and is among the nation’s top 1% of Invisalign providers.  Dr. Conn received her undergraduate and doctorate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania.  She completed her residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Temple University, where she also earned a master's degree in Oral Biology.

Bryn Mawr Orthodontics serves its neighbors in Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, Villanova, Ardmore, Haverford, Wynnewood, Narberth, Radnor, Penn Valley, Bala Cynwyd, Merion, Wayne, and the entire Main Line.

To learn more about Bryn Mawr Orthodontics contact the office today (484-383-0055) or schedule a free consultation online.