About ADA
Founded in 1859, the American Dental Association is the oldest and largest national dental society in the world. Since then, the ADA has grown to become the leading source of oral health related information for dentists and their patients. Learn more about the ADA’s mission and vision, and our commitment to the public’s oral health, ethics, science and professional advancement and access to care for all Americans.
Membership and Governance
There are over 157,000 ADA members from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The ADA is a member-run organization managed by an elected Board of Trustees and a 473-member House of Delegates.
The ADA works to advance the dental profession on the national, state and local level. Membership in the national organization includes membership in one of our 53 Constituent (state) and 545 Component (local) dental societies.
The ADA Seal Program
Over 300 oral health products, including toothpastes, dental floss, toothbrushes, mouth rinses, denture adherents and chewing gum carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance, universally recognized by consumers as a symbol of safety and effectiveness. Search for ADA Seal products.
The ADA Foundation
This philanthropic arm of the ADA provides scholarships for dental students, advocates for children's dental health and supplies disaster relief to members in need. Learn how to apply for assistance at the ADA Foundation site.
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