Survey finds strong interest in using HSA, FSA funds for oral care products

ADA supports legislation to expand eligibility to everyday oral health essentials 

More than 8 in 10 health savings account and flexible spending account holders would use those funds to purchase everyday over-the-counter oral care products if they were eligible, according to new survey findings released Oct. 7 by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association.

The survey found that 83% of HSA and FSA account holders would use their funds to purchase products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss and mouthwash if permitted under federal law.

Interest was particularly high among younger adults and families with children, according to the release. Among account holders with children younger than 18, 91% said they would use the funds for everyday oral care products, compared with 89% of account holders aged 18-49.

“Oral health is whole-body health, and Americans clearly understand the importance of caring for their teeth and gums as part of a healthy lifestyle,” said Scott Melville, president and CEO of the Consumer Healthcare Products Association. “Our survey shows consumers want more flexibility to use the healthcare dollars they've already set aside on the products they rely on every day to support good oral health.”

The survey also examined Americans' understanding of the relationship between oral health and overall health. According to the release, 88% of respondents recognized that oral health can affect overall health, while 91% agreed that caring for their teeth and gums can help prevent chronic and costly health problems later in life.

The findings also indicated that some consumers have changed their oral care purchasing habits during the past year. According to the survey, 14% reported purchasing oral care products less frequently, while the same percentage reported switching to lower-cost brands. Another 11% said they had reduced their use of certain products, and 9% reported delaying product replacements.

ADA President Richard Rosato, D.M.D., said in the release that the American Dental Association supports expanding HSA and FSA eligibility to include everyday oral care products. 

“Good oral health starts with daily care, and everyday essentials like toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss are an important part of maintaining health and preventing disease,” Dr. Rosato said. “Making oral health products HSA and FSA eligible would help make preventive care more affordable while potentially reducing health care costs down the road. The American Dental Association supports legislation that makes this possible for our patients.”

Under current federal law, HSA and FSA funds can be used for a range of healthcare expenses, including over-the-counter medications and health supplies. However, everyday oral care products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash and dental floss generally are not eligible expenses, according to the release.

The bipartisan Oral Health Products Inclusion Act, H.R. 1219, would expand eligibility to include certain everyday oral care products, allowing consumers to use funds from these tax-free accounts toward their purchase.

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association said the legislation would give account holders additional flexibility in how they use money already set aside for healthcare expenses. The association released the survey findings as part of its support for expanding HSA and FSA eligibility to include preventive over-the-counter oral care products.

For more information about the ADA’s advocacy efforts, visit ADA.org/Advocacy.