Have you heard over and over that looking for the ADA Seal of Acceptance means you know you are choosing a dental hygiene product that will work successfully? Is this about all you know regarding the American Dental Association’s method of letting the public know an item is good to purchase? If so, you may have some specific questions regarding the seal and the process. While we will be happy to answer any remaining questions at your next visit, we have currently collected those we often hear from patients.

Questions and Answers: ADA Approval

Question: Why does this exist? If I find something in a store, can’t I assume that it will be effective no matter what?

Answer: Actually, if it doesn’t have an ADA Seal of Acceptance on it, then that means it has not gone through extensive testing and research. As a result, it’s impossible to know whether the product will offer effective care unless you try it out for yourself.

Question: What types of tests does a dental hygiene product have to pass to qualify for the ADA Seal of Acceptance?

Answer: There’s a long list of requirements to make sure the product will treat the targeted concern (such as removing plaque), that it will be safe for you to use on a daily basis, that the materials are safe for the environment, that it meets with all federal safety standards, and more.

Question: Can’t a company just print the letters “ADA” on a product, fooling customers into thinking it’s official?

Answer: To make sure what you’re looking at has a real ADA Seal of Acceptance stamped on it, look for a statement that goes along with the stamp – it will discuss the reason the ADA chose to accept the item.