Voluntary programs: ADA Seal program and international implications.

Abstract

For about 130 years the American Dental Association (ADA) has aided the profession and the public in selecting safe and effective dental products. Since 1930, dental products have been evaluated through the ADA Seal program. In accordance with the ADA's Bylaws, the Council on Scientific Affairs assesses information evaluating the safety, efficacy, appropriate use, and promotional claims of dental products. In doing so, the Council may award the ADA's Seal of Acceptance. In collaboration with interested parties, expert consultants, and Council members, the ADA produces guidelines suggesting appropriate methodologies and submission data to assist manufacturers in voluntarily earning the Seal of Acceptance. To date, numerous professional and consumer products have been evaluated, and about 1,300 of these products bear the Association's Seal of Acceptance. When a product is awarded the Seal it means that adequate data have been submitted and reviewed and, based on available information, the product meets ADA guidelines of safety and effectiveness. Dental health care professionals and consumers who use products that have the Seal can be confident that a product's properties and performance are consistent with current professional standards and manufacturers' claims. The ADA Seal program serves to help dentists and manufacturers meet their ethical obligations to the public by promoting safe and effective health care products.