It’s a Great Time to Stock Up on Dental Supplies

As we discussed in the Craig Armstrong, DDS blog Don’t Lose Your Flexible Savings Account, this is the time of year when you must either use up the money in your FSA or lose it. In addition to all of the dental treatments you can finance with your FSA that were discussed in that blog post, there are other options available to you. Your FSA account can be used to pay for some types of dental health supplies, making it a great time of year to stock up on certain items.

First Aid. You are allowed to purchase first aid kits. as well as the items that are typically found in first aid kits, with your FSA. Pick up cold packs and compresses as well as gauze dressing to have on hand in case of emergency. Other things you may want to put in your first aid kit are temporary fillings, which come in handy while you are waiting to see the dentist, and peroxide.

Denture Care. Dentures can be paid for with money from your FSA. If you wear dentures, then you know how important it is to have denture adhesive available. You can also buy denture adhesives with your FSA funds.

Pain Relief. Products in the pain relief category require a prescription if you are going to use your FSA. These items include mouth pain relief such as Orajel and Anbesol. It also includes analgesics such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen.

Smoking Cessation. Smoking is one of the leading causes of oral cancers.  If you are a smoker, take time to quit now. Many smoking cessation products can be paid for with an FSA, although you may need a prescription. Items include Nicorette, Nicotrol, and nicotine replacement patches.

Preparing for Dental Care in 2014

This is also the time of year to consider your FSA needs for 2014. If your employer offers an FSA option, think about how much you want to set aside in 2014 to cover dental expenses.  Remember, your exam and teeth cleaning appointments are covered within FSA guidelines. In addition, do you think you will need:

• Orthodontia
• Extractions
• Implants
• Composite fillings

Perhaps you do not have dental coverage. In that case, check out healthcare.gov to find out what options are available to you under the Affordable Health Care Act. Dental coverage is offered as part of some health plans. The government website also has information about stand-alone plans which may meet your needs. There is an extensive excel spreadsheet on the website that identifies dental insurers by state, county, and program name. You do not need to register to get access to the spreadsheet. However, if you take a few minutes to register you can get more details relevant to your situation.

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Original Source: https://www.craigarmstrongdds.com/cleanings-and-prevention/its-a-great-time-to-stock-up-on-dental-supplies