What the ADA Accepted Seal means for you Published Dec. 2, 2015 By Staff Sgt. Anna Laird-Gronsky 27th Special Operations Aerospace Medicine Squadron CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Have you ever wondered if your dental products do what they claim they do? Whether it is a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss or mouth rinse, it is important to look for a little square symbol imprinted with the “ADA Accepted” seal right on the dental product. By looking for this symbol, you can rest easy knowing you are choosing a quality-assured dental hygiene item for both your teeth and gums. The American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance is designed to help you understand that the products you are purchasing do what they claim. The ADA seal is backed with specific compliances, and stringent clinical and laboratory testing to ensure the safety and effectiveness of dental products. Additionally, the ADA requires the accepted product to display a Seal Statement that tells consumers why the ADA accepted that particular product. For example, the Seal Statement on accepted toothpaste with fluoride may read: “The ADA council on Scientific Affairs acceptance of (product name) is based on its finding that the product is effective in helping to prevent and reduce tooth decay, when used as directed.” There are a vast amount of dental hygiene products on the market that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance, but there are just as many that do not. If a dental product does not have the ADA Seal of Acceptance, it does not necessarily mean it is bad for you. The ADA Seal of Acceptance simply ensures that you can trust the claim made on packaging, such as "reduces tooth decay," "fights gingivitis," etc. ADA Seal companies are frequently asked to meet higher standards than what is required by law. So the next time you are about to purchase your dental products, take time to look for products labeled with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This will help you make a more informed decision on the kinds of oral hygiene aides to purchase for you and your family.