Can You Use an HSA for Dental Expenses?

Key Takeaways

• Most dental treatments are HSA-eligible — including cleanings, fillings, x-rays, crowns, and braces.

• Cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers for appearance are not covered.

• Documentation matters — keep receipts and records in case of an IRS audit.

• HSA withdrawals for qualified dental expenses are tax-free, just like other eligible medical expenses.

• Always confirm with your HSA provider or refer to IRS Publication 502 before paying for dental services.

Can You Use an HSA for Dental Expenses?

Dental care can be expensive, and many people wonder: Can I use my HSA for dental work?
The answer is yes — in many cases. HSA funds can cover a wide range of dental expenses as long as they’re medically necessary and meet IRS guidelines.

Below, we break down exactly what’s covered, what’s not, and how to ensure your HSA withdrawals stay tax-free.

What Is an HSA?

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged savings account available to people with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). You can use it to pay for qualified medical expenses — and that includes many dental costs.

• Contributions are tax-deductible.

• Growth (interest or investments) is tax-free.

• Withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free.

See IRS Publication 969 for the official definition of qualified medical expenses.

What Dental Expenses Are HSA-Eligible?

According to the IRS and leading HSA custodians like HSA Bank and Cigna, dental expenses are qualified if they diagnose, treat, or prevent a dental disease or condition.

Common HSA-Eligible Dental Expenses

• Dental exams and routine cleanings

• X-rays and diagnostic visits

• Fillings, sealants, and extractions

• Crowns, bridges, and dentures

• Braces, Invisalign, and orthodontic treatment for medical reasons

• Dental implants (when medically necessary)

Dental Expenses Not Covered by HSA

• Teeth whitening or bleaching (purely cosmetic)

• Cosmetic veneers or bonding for appearance only

• Cosmetic orthodontics not tied to medical need

• General health products (toothpaste, floss, mouthwash)

Reference: IRS Publication 502 – Medical and Dental Expenses

IRS Rules: How to Determine Eligibility

To qualify as a tax-free HSA withdrawal, your dental expense must:

1. Be incurred after your HSA was established.

2. Treat or prevent a dental disease or defect, not just improve appearance.

3. Not be reimbursed by insurance or another source.

4. Be properly documented with receipts and proof of medical necessity if requested.

IRS definition of medical care: expenses “for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease.” Official IRS definition here

Examples: What’s Covered vs. What’s Not

Best Practices for Using HSA Funds on Dental Care

• Keep every receipt. Documentation is your proof during audits.

• Ask your dentist for an itemized invoice if procedures mix medical and cosmetic care.

• Don’t double dip. If you deduct dental expenses on Schedule A, you can’t also reimburse them with HSA funds.

• Confirm with your HSA administrator. Some require pre-approval or medical necessity documentation for higher-cost procedures.

Why It Matters

Using your HSA for dental work means you’re paying tax-free dollars instead of after-tax income. That’s a 20–30% savings on average, depending on your tax bracket.

Over time, covering eligible dental care through your HSA can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs — while keeping your tax advantages intact.

Bottom Line

Yes — you can use your HSA for most dental expenses, including exams, fillings, and even orthodontics when medically necessary.
Just remember:

• Cosmetic procedures don’t qualify,

• Documentation is critical, and

• Always check the IRS and your HSA provider’s guidance before spending.

By understanding what’s eligible, you can make your HSA work smarter — keeping both your teeth and your finances healthy.