If you’re looking for orthodontic treatment in Ashburn, VA or Woodbridge, VA, you may be wondering how to pay for it—and whether your FSA or HSA can help.
Both Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) let you set aside pre-tax money for qualified medical expenses, including braces and Invisalign® clear aligners. Using either account can meaningfully reduce what you pay out of pocket, since the money used is never taxed.
FSA vs. HSA: What’s the Difference?
Both accounts cover orthodontic treatment, but they work differently:
| Feature | FSA | HSA |
| Who offers it | Employer-sponsored | Requires a high-deductible health plan |
| Rollover | Usually “use it or lose it” each year | Rolls over year to year, no expiration |
| Ownership | Tied to your employer | Stays with you even if you change jobs |
| Orthodontic coverage | Yes, if medically necessary | Yes, if medically necessary |
If you have an FSA, plan your contribution carefully around your treatment timeline since unused funds often don’t roll over. If you have an HSA, your balance carries forward, so it’s worth building it up ahead of starting treatment.
Check if Your Orthodontic Treatment Qualifies
Both FSA and HSA funds can be used for orthodontic treatment that’s deemed medically necessary—not purely cosmetic. This covers correcting crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite, and can also improve breathing, sleeping, chewing, and speech.
At American Braces & Smile Center, we offer a free initial orthodontic exam to determine if you’re a good candidate for braces or Invisalign®, along with a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate so you can plan your FSA or HSA contributions accordingly.
Choose the Treatment That Fits Your Needs
Your FSA or HSA can cover any medically necessary orthodontic treatment, so you have the freedom to choose what fits your needs and lifestyle:
- Metal self-ligating braces: traditional metal braces using a clip mechanism instead of elastic ties, reducing friction and discomfort
- Clear self-ligating braces: the same self-ligating technology with tooth-colored brackets for a more discreet look
- Invisalign® clear aligners: removable, nearly invisible trays suitable for most mild to moderate misalignment
How to Pay With Your FSA or HSA Card
The easiest way to use either account is with your FSA or HSA debit card. Simply swipe it at our office when you pay for treatment—no receipts or paperwork required, since the card tracks the transaction automatically.
Reimburse Yourself If You Pay Another Way
If you pay with cash, check, credit card, or a payment plan, you can submit your receipts to your FSA or HSA provider for reimbursement instead. Keep your itemized receipts, fill out your provider’s reimbursement request form, and they’ll deposit the amount back into your account or send a check.
What Our Patients Say
“Service is great”
— Naomi N., ABSC Woodbridge patient
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FAQs About FSA/HSA for Orthodontic Treatment
Are braces covered by FSA?
Yes. Braces qualify as a medically necessary expense under most FSA plans.
Are braces covered by HSA?
Yes. Braces are also an eligible expense under HSA plans, the same as FSA.
Can I use my HSA or FSA for Invisalign?
Yes. Invisalign is treated the same as braces for FSA and HSA eligibility purposes.
What’s the difference between FSA and HSA for orthodontic treatment?
Both cover the same treatments. The main difference is that FSA funds usually expire each year, while HSA funds roll over indefinitely.
Do I need a referral or diagnosis code to use my FSA/HSA?
Your orthodontist’s treatment plan and invoice typically serve as documentation. We can provide the paperwork your provider requires.
Make the Most of Your FSA or HSA
Using your FSA or HSA for orthodontic treatment can help you save money and enjoy real tax benefits, whether you choose metal self-ligating braces, clear self-ligating braces, or Invisalign® clear aligners.
We accept FSA and HSA accounts, most major insurance plans, and offer flexible payment options at our Ashburn, VA and Woodbridge, VA offices.
