Give Kids A Smile 2026 Launches in Houston
The ADA Foundation’s Give Kids A Smile national kickoff took place in Houston on February 6, 2026. Nearly 200 children received free dental care during this impactful event, demonstrating the ADA’s ongoing commitment to improving oral health among children nationwide.
This initiative emphasizes the importance of accessible dental care for young patients and aims to reduce barriers to treatment.
Understanding the ADA Seal of Acceptance
For almost a century, the ADA Seal of Acceptance has been a trusted indicator for consumers selecting dental products. It helps individuals make informed decisions by identifying products that meet rigorous safety and efficacy standards.
The Seal reassures users that a product has undergone thorough evaluation and complies with ADA’s guidelines, supporting better oral health choices.
EPA Launches Accelerated Review of Fluoride in Drinking Water
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an accelerated review process concerning fluoride levels in drinking water. The ADA is actively encouraging its members to engage with this review by contacting the EPA.
Fluoride plays a critical role in cavity prevention, and maintaining the right balance is essential for public dental health. The ADA’s involvement highlights the significance of ongoing scientific evaluation and public input in water fluoridation policies.
Federal Funding Secured to Support Oral Health Investments
On February 3, 2026, President Donald Trump signed a $1.2 trillion bipartisan spending bill, effectively ending the partial government shutdown. This legislation secures important funding for oral health initiatives across the country.
These investments aim to enhance dental care access, support public health programs, and strengthen oral health infrastructure nationwide.
Guidance on AI Use in Dental Publishing Released
The American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists (AADEJ) published new guidance on the use of artificial intelligence in dental publishing. Their 17 consensus statements focus on maintaining accuracy and transparency when incorporating AI technologies in content creation.
This guidance supports ethical standards and helps ensure that published information remains reliable and trustworthy for dental professionals and the public alike.
ADA Urges CMS to Maintain Transparency in Medicare Advantage Dental Benefits
The ADA has called on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to maintain strong oversight of supplemental dental benefits under Medicare Advantage plans. The association emphasizes the need for transparency and access to ensure beneficiaries receive appropriate dental care coverage.
Effective monitoring is crucial for sustaining quality and equity in oral health services for Medicare recipients.
February JADA Highlights the Burden of Severe Periodontitis
The February issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) features a cover story addressing severe periodontitis as an ongoing public health concern in the U.S. The article sheds light on the widespread impact of this condition and underscores the importance of prevention and treatment strategies.
Awareness and early intervention remain vital to reducing the disease burden and improving patient outcomes.
2025: A Strong Year for ADA Advocacy
Reflecting on the previous year, the ADA achieved numerous advocacy successes in 2025. These wins spanned a variety of areas, including policy advancements, funding allocations, and enhanced support for dental professionals and patients.
The ADA’s continued advocacy efforts play a pivotal role in shaping the future of oral health care in the United States.
Upcoming Meeting: Code Maintenance Committee to Review CDT Codes
The ADA’s Code Maintenance Committee is scheduled to meet on March 13, 2026, to consider changes to the Current Dental Terminology (CDT) codes for 2027. Committee members will vote to accept, amend, or decline proposed code modifications.
These codes are essential for standardizing dental procedures and ensuring effective communication among providers, insurers, and patients.
Summary
The recent ADA news highlights significant developments across oral health initiatives, policy advocacy, and professional standards. From free care events benefiting children to critical funding secured by bipartisan efforts, the ADA continues to champion accessible and quality dental care.
Ongoing efforts in transparency, scientific review, and innovation, such as the EPA fluoride review and AI publishing guidelines, demonstrate the profession’s commitment to evidence-based practices and ethical standards.
Dental professionals and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged with these important topics shaping oral health care today.