Could Your HSA Soon Cover Toothpaste & Toothbrushes?
Toothpaste, toothbrushes, and dental floss are everyday essentials, but most Americans can't use their health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs) to pay for them. A new survey suggests that many account holders would welcome a change, and proposed federal legislation could make it possible.
According to survey findings released on October 7 by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), 83% of HSA and FSA account holders said they would use their funds to purchase everyday oral care products if federal law allowed it. The findings add support to a bipartisan proposal that would expand which dental hygiene products qualify for tax-advantaged healthcare spending.
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Americans Want More Flexibility With Healthcare Funds
Interest in using HSA and FSA funds for oral care was particularly strong among families. The survey found that 91% of account holders with children under 18 would use their funds for everyday oral care products if eligible. Among account holders aged 18 to 49, that figure reached 89%.
The findings also suggest that cost is affecting how some Americans care for their teeth. Over the past year, 14% of surveyed consumers reported buying oral care products less frequently, while another 14% switched to cheaper brands. Meanwhile, 11% reduced their use of certain products, and 9% delayed replacing them.
These changes come despite widespread awareness of the importance of dental hygiene. According to the survey, 88% of respondents recognized that oral health can affect overall health, while 91% agreed that caring for their teeth and gums could help prevent costly health problems later.
The nationwide survey included 1,200 U.S. adults aged 21 and older and was conducted from August 14 to 17, 2026. While the findings indicate strong interest, they reflect what respondents say they would do rather than actual purchasing behavior.
A Proposed Law Could Change What Qualifies
Under current federal rules, Americans can use HSA and FSA funds for many medical and dental expenses, including dental cleanings, fillings, and certain over-the-counter medications. Everyday oral hygiene products, though, generally remain excluded.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) classifies ordinary toothbrushes and toothpaste as personal-use items rather than qualifying medical expenses. This means consumers generally must purchase them with after-tax income, even when they use them to help prevent dental problems.
The bipartisan Oral Health Products Inclusion Act (H.R. 1219) aims to change that. Introduced in February 2025, the bill would expand eligibility to include manual and electric toothbrushes, water flossers, and certain qualifying over-the-counter oral healthcare products, including specified anticavity and antiplaque or antigingivitis products.
The American Dental Association (ADA) supports the proposal. In the survey announcement, ADA President Dr. Richard Rosato said expanding eligibility could make preventive dental care more affordable and potentially reduce healthcare costs over time.
The legislation was referred to the House Ways and Means Committee in February 2025, and the available congressional record does not show that it has advanced into law. There is no confirmed date for the proposed changes to take effect.
What Would the Change Mean for Consumers?
If passed, the legislation would allow eligible account holders to use tax-advantaged healthcare funds for more of their routine dental care purchases. That could be particularly useful for families who regularly buy multiple toothbrushes, toothpaste, and other qualifying oral hygiene supplies.
The proposal also includes electric toothbrushes and water flossers, which can cost considerably more than basic dental care products. According to the official bill text, the expanded eligibility would apply to qualifying purchases made after the law's enactment.
Still, HSA and FSA funds aren't free money. The main financial advantage would come from using tax-advantaged dollars for purchases that consumers currently make with after-tax income. Actual savings would depend on individual tax circumstances, account rules, and spending habits.
For now, regular toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, and mouthwash generally remain ineligible for HSA and FSA reimbursement. The proposed legislation could change how Americans pay for everyday oral care, but until Congress acts, consumers will need to continue following existing eligibility rules.
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