As the year winds down, it is easy to get caught up in school schedules, holidays, and travel plans. One thing many families forget about is their Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) balance. If you do not use those funds in time, you may lose them.
At Washington Orthodontics in Bellevue and Federal Way, we accept FSA and HSA cards for many types of orthodontic treatment. That includes braces, clear aligners, Phase I treatment for kids, and retainers. If you still have funds left in your account, now can be the perfect time to invest them in a healthier, more confident smile.
Our goal is always to help you be better than yesterday, and using your benefits wisely is a big part of that.
What Are FSA and HSA Accounts and How Do They Work for Orthodontics?
FSAs and HSAs are special accounts that let you set aside money for health expenses. The money you put into these accounts usually comes out of your paycheck before taxes, which means your dollars can go a little further.
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is often a “use it or lose it” benefit. In many plans, any money left in your FSA at the end of the plan year will expire. Some plans offer a short grace period or allow a small amount of funds to roll over, but most of the balance needs to be used by a deadline.
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a little more flexible. Funds in an HSA usually roll over from year to year and can be saved for future medical and dental care. Even so, an HSA is meant to be used, not just stored forever. Putting it toward needed orthodontic care can be a smart long term choice.
Both FSAs and HSAs can often be used for qualified medical and dental expenses. That may include orthodontic treatment when it is recommended to correct bite issues, crowding, spacing, or other functional problems. Because every plan is different, it is always a good idea to review your specific benefits or contact your plan administrator for details.
Orthodontic Treatments You Can Use FSA/HSA Funds On
Many patients are surprised by how many parts of orthodontic care may be eligible for FSA or HSA spending. At Washington Orthodontics, your health spending dollars can often be used toward:
Braces for Kids, Teens, and Adults
Traditional metal braces are one of the most common ways we correct crowding, spacing, and bite problems. If Dr. Moon recommends braces to improve function and oral health, your FSA or HSA may help cover part of the cost. This can make it easier to start treatment now instead of waiting.
Clear Aligner Treatment
For many teens and adults, clear aligners are a great option. These nearly invisible trays are custom made to gradually move your teeth. They are popular with patients who prefer a more discreet look at work or school. When aligners are prescribed to correct an orthodontic issue, FSA or HSA funds can often be used toward treatment.
Phase I (Early) Treatment for Children
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7. At Washington Orthodontics, we offer Phase I treatment when early intervention can guide jaw growth, create space for incoming teeth, or correct certain bite problems. In many cases, this early care is considered medically necessary and may be eligible for FSA or HSA spending.
Retainers and Replacement Retainers
Retainers help maintain your new smile after braces or aligners. If you have lost or broken a retainer, replacement is important to protect the time and money you have already invested in treatment. Retainers that are recommended by your orthodontist are often considered an eligible expense.
Diagnostic Records and Orthodontic Consultations
Exams, photos, X-rays, and digital scans are used to plan your orthodontic treatment. These records sometimes qualify for FSA or HSA spending as part of your overall care.
Coverage can vary from plan to plan, so our team will always encourage you to confirm details with your benefits provider. We are happy to help you gather the information you need for that conversation.
Why It Makes Sense to Use Your FSA/HSA Before the Year Ends
If you have FSA funds that expire at the end of the year, leaving money in your account is like leaving a paid-for appointment on the table. Using those dollars for your smile is often a much better option than letting them disappear.
Here are a few reasons to consider using your FSA or HSA for orthodontic care now:
- Avoid losing FSA funds. Many FSA balances reset at the end of the plan year. Using your funds on needed care is a way to make sure your money is not wasted.
- Start treatment you have been putting off. If you have been thinking about braces or clear aligners for yourself or your child, year end can be a natural time to finally begin.
- Prevent bigger problems later. Addressing bite issues and crowding now can reduce the risk of tooth wear, gum problems, and more complex treatment in the future.
- Align with your yearly planning. Many families use the end of the year to reset routines. Starting orthodontic care now means you are already moving forward when the new year begins.
Using your benefits in a thoughtful way fits well with our Better than Yesterday mindset. Small decisions today can add up to big improvements over time.
How Washington Orthodontics Makes Using FSA/HSA Simple
We know that insurance terms and benefit rules can feel confusing. Our team works hard to make the process as comfortable as possible for patients in both Bellevue and Federal Way.
At Washington Orthodontics:
- We accept FSA and HSA cards at both locations.
- Our treatment coordinators can help you understand how your benefits may apply to your recommended treatment.
- We can provide detailed estimates for braces, clear aligners, Phase I treatment, and retainers so you can plan how to use your FSA or HSA funds.
- If your plan allows it, we can often help you apply funds toward the initial investment or specific portions of treatment.
While we cannot control your plan rules, we can help you ask the right questions. If you bring your benefits information to your visit, our team can review it with you and help you move forward with confidence.
Beat the Year-End Rush in Bellevue and Federal Way
As the calendar gets closer to December, appointments tend to fill quickly. Families are trying to fit in last minute checkups, orthodontic consultations, and follow up visits before their benefits reset.
If you know you have FSA or HSA funds to use, scheduling earlier gives you:
- More choices for appointment days and times.
- A better chance of finishing records and starting treatment before the end of the year.
- Time to discuss options with Dr. Moon and our team without feeling rushed.
Whether you visit us at our Bellevue office or our new Federal Way location, we work hard to keep things convenient. Both locations offer easy access and parking, and our staff is here to support you from the first phone call to the final retainer check.
Ready to Use Your FSA or HSA? Schedule Your Orthodontic Visit Today
If you still have FSA or HSA funds available, this could be the perfect moment to invest in a healthier smile for yourself or your child. Orthodontic treatment is not just about looks. It can improve function, make teeth easier to clean, and boost confidence at school, work, and in everyday life.
You do not need a referral to see Dr. Moon at Washington Orthodontics.
- Call our Bellevue or Federal Way office and let us know you are interested in using FSA or HSA funds.
- Schedule a free orthodontic consultation for braces or clear aligners.
- Bring your benefits information so our team can help you understand your options.
If you have questions about whether a specific treatment is eligible, our staff can help you gather the details to discuss with your benefits provider.
Use your health spending before the year ends, and take one more step toward a smile that is better than yesterday.
