Fluoride Rinse: FSA Eligibility

Eligible expenses for Limited FSAs can vary. To find out exactly what your Limited FSA covers, contact your FSA administrator.

What is Fluoride rinse?

Fluoride rinse is a type of mouth rinse helpful to children with a history of cavities and/or a high risk of tooth decay as determined by a medical professional.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that strengthens the teeth and makes the tooth surface more resistant to acid-based damage from bacteria that live in the plaque on the teeth.

Fluoride rinses may be Over-the-Counter (OTC) or prescription strength. Fluoride rinses are intended for use mainly on children aged 6 months to 16 years old. They can help prevent tooth decay in children and adults, however. Fluoride rinses will be absorbed through the surface of the teeth (Dental Health Foundation).

Tooth decay risk can be generally assessed by four factors, including the history of cavities, the frequency of dental visits, the quality of brushing habits, and dietary and snacking habits.

Fluoride rinses do not remove plaque. Fluoride rinses are also not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Fluoride rinses are only for the purpose of strengthening tooth enamel to defend against acid-based damage from bacterial plaque.

Fluoride rinse is sometimes eligible, if a doctor's note or dentist's note indicates the item is needed to alleviate or treat a medical condition, and the individual would otherwise not have purchased the item 'but for' the medical condition; ineligible if for general health.