New bill would allow oral care items to be purchased through FSAs, HSAs

ADA, Consumer Healthcare Products Association show support

A new bill was introduced Feb. 11 that would increase access to certain oral care items that can be purchased with flexible spending account and health savings account funds. 

The Oral Health Products Inclusion Act, was introduced in the House of Representatives with the support of the ADA and the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, a national trade association representing manufacturers and marketers of consumer health care products. In a statement, the consumer association said that by allowing over-the-counter oral care essentials — including toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss and mouthwash — to qualify as eligible medical essentials, Americans will be able to take charge of their own health.

The legislation will reduce families’ long-term medical costs for more severe health conditions potentially caused by poor oral hygiene, according to the statement. 

ADA President Brett Kessler, D.D.S., was quoted in the statement and emphasized that oral health is essential for overall health and well-being. 

“Daily oral care is critical for disease prevention and can lead to reduced health care costs for consumers. The American Dental Association supports this legislation to ensure oral care products are recognized as everyday essentials, making them more accessible to all Americans,” Dr. Kessler said. 

The introduction of the Oral Health Products Inclusion Act follows a previous bipartisan decision in 2020, which reinstated flexible saving account and health savings account eligibility for over-the-counter medicines as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. 

The new legislation was sponsored by Reps. Jeff Van Drew, D.M.D., R-N.J., Brad Schneider, D-Ill., Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., and Jimmy Panetta, D-Calif.

“As a dentist of 30 years, I understand the importance of good oral hygiene,” said Dr. Van Drew. “That is why I am proud to be a sponsor on this bill, which will recognize these oral care items as qualified medical expenses in an important step towards encouraging a healthier lifestyle for Americans.”

“This legislation is a testament to our shared commitment of holistic self-care approaches that empower Americans from every income level to better manage their overall health, while helping reduce further strain on the U.S. health care system in the process,” reads the Consumer Healthcare Products Association statement.