As healthcare consumers and future professionals, virtually
all of us have heard the phrase, “Four out of five dentists recommend…” The assurance conveyed in this statement has
a lasting impact on the at-large public—just as does the ADA Seal of Approval,
which was first awarded in 1931. It is
thus interesting to see the ADA unveil the
latest extension of its website wherein public and professional visitors can immediately access information
about products that have been scrutinized and validated by the country’s
largest association in dentistry.
In addition to providing visibility of the products that
have received the seal—and giving site visitors a means of comparing them—the ADA
website explains the criteria used in their evaluation. It also outlines the process by which manufacturers
can submit consumer products for the ADA’s consideration of seal-worthiness.
How many of us know that over 300 consumer products
currently carry the ADA Seal? How has
the presence or absence of the seal affected your decision-making process—either
for you personally or your prospective patients?