3 things you missed in government this week

ADA News is providing a roundup of government happenings you may have missed this week.

Boost Indian Health Service funding, AI/AN Health Partners urges

The AI/AN Health Partners is calling on House and Senate appropriators to strengthen funding for the Indian Health Service.

NCOIL approves 'opt-in' amendment to Transparency in Dental Benefits Contracting Model Act

The National Council of Insurance Legislators voted to approve amendments to the 2020 Transparency in Dental Benefits Contracting Model Act.

New study finds US fluoride exposure linked to better adolescent cognitive performance 

A new study finds typical childhood fluoride exposure is linked to modestly better teen cognitive performance with no later cognitive harm.

ADA calls for adoption of higher funding levels in Labor-HHS bill

The ADA is urging congressional appropriators to finalize the 2026 Labor-HHS appropriations bill with support for oral health programs.

You Ask, We Answer: Is it safe to use fluoridated water to reconstitute infant formula?

The ADA News is delving into many questions explored in Fluoridation Facts through conversations with experts.

Tips to avoid claim denials due to common coding mistakes

With the launch of the latest CDT Code just around the corner, the ADA hopes to help dentists avoid common coding mistakes.

My View: A wake-up call from the future for dentists

New study finds U.S. fluoride exposure linked to better adolescent cognitive performance 

A new study finds typical childhood fluoride exposure is linked to modestly better teen cognitive performance with no later cognitive harm.

Board of Trustees Approves 2026 Budget 

ADA-led coalition urges CMS to fill chief dental officer vacancy, strengthen oral health leadership

An ADA-led coalition is urging CMS to appoint a new chief dental officer and keep the position within the Office of the Administrator.  

3 things you missed in government this week

ADA News is providing a roundup of government happenings you may have missed this week.

New study finds U.S. fluoride exposure linked to better adolescent cognitive performance 

A new study finds typical childhood fluoride exposure is linked to modestly better teen cognitive performance with no later cognitive harm.

ADA urges Senate Finance Committee to include oral health in national health cost reforms 

The ADA outlined priorities for addressing cost drivers and improving oral health care access in a letter to the Senate Finance Committee.

ADA Member Advantage launches new ADA Rewards World Elite Mastercard

Cardholders will earn bonus points and have access to World Elite Mastercard benefits.

ADA calls for oral health integration in federal chronic disease care coordination efforts 

The ADA is urging lawmakers to include oral health in efforts to modernize care coordination for chronic disease prevention and treatment. 

Dear ADA: Out-of-network providers

This ADA News series aims to address dentists' dental insurance challenges.

ADA begins discussions with other groups to advance dental licensure exams

The organizations will explore best practices and potential innovations to enhance national exam standards.

ADA seeks feedback on oral cancer recommendations

The ADA Living Guideline Program is continuing its work to advance recommendations for the early detection and management of oral cancer.

Revised CDT codes you should know for 2026

CDT 2026 boasts 60 code changes, including 14 revisions.

Limited Time Best Card Offer for ISDS Members

Nearly 400 of our members are already saving, but many more could benefit from this special offer!

Bloomington's Community Health Care Clinic is Filling a Need for Adult Dental Services in Central Illinois

The services of the Dental Clinic are certainly something to celebrate. Operating as an extension of the Community Health Care Clinic, the Dental Clinic offers adult dental services through a free clinic model powered by resources, volunteers, and community partners.

Dr. Ben Youel Elected Second Vice President of the American Dental Association

Dr. Ben Youel, D.D.S., was recently elected at the ADA House of Delegates Meeting at SmileCon in Washington, D.C. on October 27.

Sexual Harassment Training Requirement

All Illinois employers are required by law to train employees on sexual harassment prevention by December 31 every year. The Illinois State Dental Society offers an “On Demand" Sexual Harassment Prevention Course that can be provided to employees to meet the employer’s requirements.

Actions taken at this year's Annual Session by the House of Delegates

Below is a summary of the actions taken at this year's Annual Session by the House of Delegates.

Attention: Medicaid Providers!

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (DHFS) has been sending emails to Medicaid providers to confirm their enrollment with the Medicaid system, a process known as “revalidation.”

Dr. Stacey Van Scoyoc Announces Candidacy for 8th District Trustee to the American Dental Association

Slate of ISDS Officers: 2025-2026

These candidates are running for ISDS elective office for the 2025-2026 term.

ISDS Announces 2025 Scholarship Winners

Each year, the ISDS Foundation’s scholarship selection process shines a spotlight on the next generation of dental leaders—students whose curiosity, compassion, and insight promise to reshape the future of oral health in Illinois.

ISDS Foundation Awards $27,000 to Help Illinois Dental Schools

The ISDS Foundation’s Dental Education Endowment Fund: “Our Legacy, Our Future” program earmarked $9,000 from its endowment’s earnings for each dental school in Illinois in 2025.

Governor Signs Electronic Insurance Claims Law

ISDS-backed legislation enhances transparency in insurance coverage and gives providers more flexibility in meeting electronic claims submission requirements.

In Memoriam

Each August, we pay tribute to those member dentists we have lost in the past year. Their passion, expertise, and commitment to caring for their patients will be deeply missed.

Dental Practice Act Modernized and Reauthorized Through 2030 and Signed by the Governor

ISDS secured long-term stability and meaningful updates to the Dental Practice Act, ensuring Illinois dentists can continue to practice under modern, profession-forward standards. The Governor recently signed the legislation, and it is now in effect.

Announcement of 2025 Community Grant Winners for the Illinois State Dental Society Foundation

The ISDSF distributes Community Grants each year in various amounts to applicants residing in the State of Illinois and to such projects that benefit the people of Illinois.

The ISDS Foundation Supports Dental Student Table Clinics

Research competitions for all classes from D1-D4 are conducted each year at Illinois dental schools. Students work on projects with professors and graduate students and present posters and oral explanations of their projects.

Session Overview: ISDS Secures Major Wins for Dentists in 2025 Legislative Session

While you focus on patient care, ISDS is hard at work in the legislature, ensuring that lawmakers understand the real-world challenges faced by dentists and their patients.

Having Financial Hardships Due to Natural Disasters?

Announcing This Year's ISDS Annual Session Events & Registration!

Join us for the 161st ISDS Annual Session in Peoria, Illinois! Registration is NOW OPEN!

Nearing the End of Session

Progress on Key Legislative Priorities The Illinois General Assembly will adjourn the 2025 legislative session on Saturday, May 31. As we enter the final stretch, ISDS continues to advocate for legislation that protects patients, strengthens dental practices, and supports the profession.

ADA Find-a-Dentist helps patients find you

Increase your visibility and stand out by keeping your profile updated. Profiles that feature photos, email addresses, website links and other key details will stand out to patients searching for a new dentist.