Bonding of the teeth: FSA Eligibility

Bonding of the teeth: requires a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) to be eligible with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Bonding of the teeth reimbursement may be eligible if required for treatment of a medical condition. A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a medical professional would be required for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a limited-purpose flexible spending account (LPFSA). Bonding of the teeth reimbursement is not eligible with a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).

When related to cosmetic purposes only, teeth bonding is not eligible. Eligible expenses for Limited Purpose FSAs (LPFSA) can vary. To find out exactly what your LPFSA covers, contact your FSA administrator.

What is bonding of the teeth?

Bonding of the teeth is considered a cosmetic dental procedure that consists of the application of a tooth-colored resin that is "bonded" to the teeth with adhesives and then affixed to the area with a high intensity curing light. After the material has been placed, the bonded area will be buffed down to its appropriate thickness, and then polished to a shine. This procedure is widely popular for its ability to fix cosmetic imperfections with materials that replicate the look of real teeth (WebMD).

What conditions does bonding of the teeth treat?

While bonding of the teeth is considered a minor cosmetic procedure, the procedure can help to correct dental imperfections that arise as a result of dental diseases, injuries and other ailments. Bonding of the teeth can be considered by individuals who have experienced the following dental issues via Colgate:

  • To repair gaps or spaces between teeth
  • To reform the shape of teeth
  • To repair cracks or chipped teeth
  • To protect an exposed root with new bonded material
  • Fill cavities
  • To remove discoloration and repair stained teeth

What are the types of bonding of the teeth?

There are two primary methods of bonding of the teeth that are used to correct a wide variety of dental imperfections. These include via Consumer Guide to Dentistry:

  • Direct Composite Bonding: This practice refers to when dentists use composite materials that replicate the look of natural teeth to fill cavities, fill in gaps or build up worn-down areas of teeth. The material is then re-shaped and polished to blend in with the rest of an individual's teeth. This minimally-invasive technique is ideal for minor procedures.
  • Adhesive Bonding: For more advanced bonding procedures that involve installing esthetic crowns, porcelain veneers, bridges and other equipment, adhesive bonding is the preferred choice. This procedure involves rubbing the surface of the tooth with a gentle phosphoric acid solution and followed by a bonding agent. A putty-like substance is applies to the tooth and then molded into shape. After some time under an ultraviolet curing light, the area is polished until it reaches its desired appearance.

How do I obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) for bonding of the teeth?

A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a doctor for bonding of the teeth is necessary for reimbursement with most benefits providers to ensure that it is necessary for the treatment of a medical condition. This letter must outline how an account holder's medical condition necessitates bonding of the teeth, how the treatment will be used to alleviate the issue and how long the treatment will last.

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