ADA supports expanding eligibility for health savings account reimbursement

Over-the-counter oral health products would qualify

The ADA is supporting a new bill that would allow health savings account and flexible spending account reimbursement eligibility for over-the-counter oral health care products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss. 

“Oral health care products are not only essential for good oral health but for health in general,” the ADA said in a letter signed by ADA President Linda J. Edgar, D.D.S., and Executive Director Raymond Cohlmia, D.D.S. “Americans should not be taxed on products like toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss that are necessary for maintaining their health.”

The letter, which was addressed to Reps. Nicole Malliotakis, R-NY, Jeff Van Drew, R-NJ, and Brad Schneider, D-Ill., noted the bill would allow oral health care products to be eligible for HSA and FSA reimbursement. The ADA expressed appreciation to Rep. Van Drew for the leadership he’s shown on this topic as well as other oral health issues. 

The ADA said brushing has been shown to achieve significant plaque removal, the use of fluoride toothpaste enhances fluoride concentration levels in biofilm fluid and saliva, and dental floss or other interdental cleaners remove food trapped between the teeth. It added that evidence “links systemic health to oral health, making it clear that oral health products are essential to Americans’ health.”

“The nation’s dentists thank you for your recognition of the importance of oral health to all Americans and the necessity of oral health products for good oral health,” the letter concludes. “The passage of this bill would help many Americans access these essential oral health products, leading to better health for all.”

Follow the ADA’s advocacy efforts at ADA.org/Advocacy.