Action Alert seeks support for HSA eligibility for over-the-counter oral health care products

New bill makes oral health’s connection to overall health clear, ADA says

The ADA is asking members to urge their congressional representatives to support a new bill that would allow reimbursement eligibility for over-the-counter oral health care products from health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts.

H.R. 8599 would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to include over-the-counter oral health care products, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss, as qualified medical expenses that can be purchased with HSA and FSA funds. 

In a Grassroots Action Alert that was emailed to all members on July 10, the ADA calls upon members to help elevate the importance of oral health for overall health to lawmakers. “A growing body of evidence also links systemic health to oral health, making it clear that oral health products are essential to Americans’ health. Americans should not be taxed on products like toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss that are necessary for maintaining their health,” reads the alert. 

The ADA alert also thanks Reps. Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., Jeff Van Drew, D.M.D., R-N.J., and Brad Schneider, D-Ill., for introducing the legislation. 

Dr. Van Drew said the bill plays an important role in “encouraging a healthier lifestyle for Americans.”

“By making these items more affordable and accessible, we are not just promoting better dental health; we are also empowering individuals to take control of their overall well-being,” Van Drew said. 

Under the new legislation, an oral health care product would be defined as “an over-the-counter anticaries drug product or antiplaque/antigingivitis over-the-counter drug product suitable for topical administration to the teeth or gums that is generally recognized as safe and effective under Section 505G of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.”

“Please email your representatives and ask them to join you in emphasizing every day oral health to all Americans and helping them access essential oral health products that will improve their health by co-sponsoring this bill,” the Action Alert concludes. 

The ADA continues to advocate for patients and providers on multiple issues. For more information on how the ADA is working with lawmakers and local leaders to promote oral health and prevent disease, visit the Prevention and Education webpage.