Oral Remedies and Treatments: HSA Eligibility

What are oral remedies and treatments?

Oral remedies and treatments refer to any product which may treat, alleviate or prevent a condition of the mouth or a disease of the mouth. This includes the teeth, gums, cheeks, lips, tongue and throat.

Examples of oral conditions and their remedies and treatments:

Anti-fungal oral medication

Oral fungi growth is typically a minor medical issue that can be treated by anti-fungal oral medications, but if the immune system is weak, the growth of this fungi may be more severe and difficult to control. Oral thrush is an example of this and is the result of an overgrowth of the fungus candida albicans, which naturally occurs in the mouth. Anti-fungal treatments for the mouth are typically gels, liquids and tablets, and use the active ingredients miconazole, terbinafine, itraconazole, fluconazole, posaconazole and voriconazole (DermNet NZ).

What is medicated toothpaste?

Medicated toothpaste is a type of toothpaste that applies a medicine to the teeth, gums and mouth. Toothpaste is an effective way to apply medicine to the teeth, mouth and gums when treating certain diseases or conditions in those areas. Common conditions for which medicated toothpaste are typically prescribed include bacterial and fungal infections, cavities, gingivitis, root exposure, dry mouth, enamel demineralization, lesions, and furcation (bone loss). Common medications that are included in toothpaste with medication include antibacterial medication, potassium nitrate, and sodium fluoride.

Medicated toothpaste must be prescribed to treat a disease or condition of the teeth, gums or mouth in order to be eligible for reimbursement with a consumer-directed healthcare plan. Medicated toothpaste must be prescribed to treat a disease or condition of the teeth, gums or mouth, and not simply for cosmetic purposes, in order to be eligible for reimbursement.

Oral remedies and treatments related to dental care may be eligible with a Limited Purpose FSA. Be sure to check with your administrator to find out what your Limited FSA covers.