ADA Qualified Sites Program

The gold standard for dental product testing

ADA Qualified logo and key factors

The ADA Qualified Sites program connects manufacturers of OTC oral health care products with research sites qualified to test products’ safety and efficacy. Manufacturers applying to the ADA Seal program may choose from the ADA Qualified Sites directory of vetted research sites, ensuring high quality studies are conducted without the need for additional confirmatory testing.

If the site meets these strict criteria, it earns Qualified status. This indicates to product manufacturers that the ADA has evaluated the site for its ability to conduct quality research in support of Seal Program applications. By ensuring the research sites are fully independent, follow all the necessary protocols and produce accurate, valid and reliable data, the ADA Seal program receives the best non-biased data with which to evaluate product submissions.

Become an ADA Qualified Site

Featured questions

Who can apply to be an ADA Qualified Site?

Dental school research sites conducting clinical and/or laboratory research.

What types of studies are done at ADA Qualified Sites?

To provide clarity, this list serves as a starting point and is not all-inclusive.

Clinical Studies:

  • Randomized controlled trials (RCTs): The trusted standard for testing safety and efficacy, comparing a test product to a placebo or control group.
  • Longitudinal studies: Follow patients over time to assess long-term effects (e.g., enamel strengthening, cavity prevention).
  • Cross-sectional studies: Analyze data from different groups at one point in time to find patterns in oral health.
  • Split-mouth studies: Compare two treatments within the same patient (e.g., one side of the mouth using a fluoride toothpaste vs. the other side with a placebo).
  • Observational studies: Monitor product use in a real-world setting without intervention.

In Vitro Studies:

  • Enamel demineralization and remineralization tests: Measure how products affect enamel integrity.
  • Biofilm and plaque testing: Assess the antibacterial effects of mouthwashes, toothpaste or coatings.
  • Abrasion and erosion studies: Evaluate how toothpaste or other products affect enamel and dentin.
  • Fluoride uptake studies: Determine the fluoride absorption and its protective effect on teeth.
  • Salivary pH testing: Analyze how products impact oral acidity and buffer capacity.
When will the ADA Qualified Sites program open for applications?

The program will begin accepting new site applications in April 2025. Applications will be accepted via the program website. Come back to this website for details on the application process and requirements.

How are ADA Qualified Sites evaluated?

Sites will undergo rigorous evaluation by an independent team of dental experts to verify their ability to conduct quality research in support of ADA Seal Program applications. Sites will be required to submit an application fee along with their applications.

How will I know if a testing site is ADA Qualified?

Testing sites that are approved by ADA will be included in the ADA Qualified Site program directory.

How do I apply to have my company’s products tested by a Qualified Site?

Details for manufacturers regarding the Qualified Sites program will be published on this web page as they become available. To be notified when details become available, fill out the contact form below.

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Have a question about the ADA Qualified Sites program? Submit your inquiry here, and our team will get back to you with the information you need.