Every year, as December rolls around, patients suddenly call in a panic:

“I need to use up my FSA before the end of the year!”
“Can I use my HSA for this crown?”
“Wait… what’s the difference between an FSA and an HSA again?”

Sound familiar?

Understanding FSA and HSA plans isn’t just helpful—it’s an opportunity to better serve your patients, boost treatment acceptance, and even reduce overdue balances. Dr. Travis Campbell’s book Understanding Dental Insurance does a great job explaining this, and we’ve broken it down here into simple, practical insights for your front office and clinical team.

First, What Are FSA and HSA Plans?

Both are tax-advantaged accounts patients can use to pay for qualified medical and dental expenses.

FSA (Flexible Spending Account)

• Offered by employers.

• “Use it or lose it”—most funds must be spent within the calendar year.

• Patients typically choose their contribution amount during open enrollment.

• Funds are available upfront on January 1st.

HSA (Health Savings Account)

• Available only with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs).

• Patients (or employers) can contribute tax-free throughout the year.

• Funds roll over year to year—no expiration.

• Money can be saved or invested for future medical needs.

What Can These Accounts Pay For in Dentistry?

Good news—a lot! Both FSA and HSA accounts can be used for most dental procedures, including:

• Exams, cleanings, X-rays

• Fillings, crowns, root canals

• Periodontal therapy

• Extractions

• Dentures, implants, night guards

However, cosmetic procedures—like veneers or whitening—are typically not covered.

If you’re ever unsure, a quick reference to IRS Publication 502 (or a call to the plan administrator) can clarify.

How Dental Teams Can Help Patients Use These Benefits

Helping patients understand and use their FSA/HSA funds builds trust, increases case acceptance, and minimizes financial surprises. Here’s how to be their benefit hero:

1. Track the Calendar

FSA funds often expire at year-end (or a few months later, depending on employer rules). So:

• Start contacting patients in October or November.

• Say something like:

  “Hi [Patient Name], just a reminder—many FSA plans expire December 31st. Let’s make sure you use those funds for any treatment you’ve been considering.”

HSA funds don’t expire, but year-end is still a great time to remind patients to use funds they’ve built up.

2. Train Your Team to Ask

At check-in or financial consults, front desk team members can say:

“Do you happen to have an FSA or HSA you’d like to use for today’s treatment?”

Even if patients aren’t sure, it sparks the conversation—and they’ll likely thank you later.

3. Encourage Prepayment or Deposits

If a patient has unused FSA money they’ll lose, but they’re not ready for treatment yet, they can prepay before year-end:

“If you'd like, we can accept a payment now to reserve your FSA funds, then schedule your treatment after the new year.”

Just make sure your office policy and accounting process supports this clearly, and always provide a receipt for FSA/HSA records.

Provide Proper Documentation

Patients using FSA/HSA funds may need documentation for reimbursement. Make sure you give:

• A detailed receipt

• ADA claim form (if requested)

• Breakdown of services and dates

This saves them time and reduces follow-up calls to your office.

Why This Matters for Your Practice

• Helps patients say yes to needed treatment.

• Reduces unpaid balances and last-minute cancellations.

• Improves cash flow, especially at year-end.

• Enhances your reputation as a helpful, proactive provider.

Dr. Travis Campbell emphasizes that understanding financial tools like FSAs and HSAs allows dental practices to empower patients and take more control over their treatment decisions—without being pushy or salesy.

Final Thought: Be the Guide, Not the Guru

Your job isn’t to manage patients’ accounts—it’s to help them make smart use of the benefits they already have.

So the next time someone asks, “Can I use my HSA for this?”
You’ll smile and say:

“Yes, and here’s how we can help you make the most of it.”

That kind of clarity and service keeps patients loyal—and makes your office stand out.

Benjamin Tuinei

Founder - Veritas Dental Resources, LLC
Phone: 888-808-4513

Services:
PPO Fee Negotiators | PPO Fee Negotiating | Insurance Fee Negotiating
Insurance Credentialing | Insurance Verifications

Websites:
www.VeritasDentalResources.com | www.VerusDental.com