Can I deduct the cost of dental veneers on my federal taxes ?

Can I deduct the cost of dental veneers on my federal taxes ?
I am having a lot of dental work done this year. Since I will be getting a substantial bridge across my lower front teeth, I was thinking of getting my top teeth and lower canines veneered at the same time in "Hollywood" white and getting the bridge from the same lab in the same color.

I have insurance, but if I get the veneers in addition to the work "needed", I will be out of pocket in excess of 7.5 % of my AGI. I will be well over this year's insurance deductible before I get to the bridge step of my treatment plan.

Under what circumstances could I claim the deduction ? While my aim is the aesthetics, my dentist says that my bite would be improved as well.

I understand that purely cosmetic procedures are ineligable. I'm just not sure where this situation fits in, or what kind of documentation I might need from my dentist to support the claim.

Thanks !

me


Answers:

Daniel-san:  No.
2007-02-02 10:39:26
Chosen Answer
redslippers:  I don't think so. I'd love to have veneers done also but I was looking on Turbo Tax this year and it said asked the question about any dental out-of-pocket - said that veneers do not count.
2007-02-02 10:41:59
emmalue:  It would be best to pay for a certified tax preparer to go over your return (do NOT go to H & R Block, find a "real" preparer). In some cases this might be deductible, but only a qualified specialist can help you.

It will cost something, but you will get your money's worth - far better than asking here!
2007-02-02 13:08:26