WASHINGTON – Consumers are showing strong interest in using health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to buy everyday oral care products, according to new research by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA).
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 those items were eligible expenses.
Demand was particularly strong among younger consumers and families. Among account holders with children under 18, 91% said they would use the funds for oral care purchases, compared with 89% of those ages 18 to 49.
The findings come as industry groups push to expand the range of preventive healthcare products covered by tax-advantaged savings accounts. While consumers can currently use HSA and FSA funds for many over-the-counter medicines and other qualified medical expenses, routine oral hygiene products generally do not qualify for reimbursement.
The bipartisan Oral Health Products Inclusion Act (H.R. 1219) aims to change that by making certain everyday oral care products eligible for reimbursement.
“Preventive oral care should be treated like the other everyday healthcare needs families already use these accounts to support,” said Scott Melville, president and CEO of CHPA. “Giving consumers greater flexibility to use healthcare dollars they’ve already set aside is a simple way to make prevention more accessible.”
The research also highlights affordability pressures shaping purchasing decisions in the oral care category. Over the past year, 14% of consumers reported buying oral care products less often, and an equal share switched to less expensive brands. Another 11% reduced their use of certain products, and 9% postponed replacing oral care items.
Despite those purchasing adjustments, consumers widely recognize the importance of preventive oral health. The survey found that 88% understand the link between oral health and overall health, and 91% believe that caring for their teeth and gums can help prevent more serious and costly health problems.
The American Dental Association (ADA) has voiced support for the proposed legislation, emphasizing the potential benefits of making routine oral hygiene products more affordable.
“Making oral health products HSA and FSA eligible would help make preventive care more affordable while potentially reducing health care costs down the road,” said ADA president Rich Rosato, D.M.D.
The survey was conducted August 14-17 among 1,200 U.S. adults ages 21 and older, including 1,000 registered voters.
CHPA has published the full findings and methodology.
