3 things you missed in government this week

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

ADA-supported coalition urges robust FY 2026 funding for health workforce programs

The Health Professions and Nursing Education Coalition is urging Congress to strengthen federal investments in the health workforce.

CMS highlights medical-dental integration in 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule 

CMS released its final rule for the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, announcing policy updates that take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

ADA urges Congress to maintain CDC tobacco prevention funding

The ADA is urging adoption of the Senate’s proposed $246.5 million funding level for the CDC's Office on Smoking and Health.

November JADA highlights opportunities for dentists to address teen tobacco use

Oral health care professionals are in a unique position to address tobacco and nicotine use among adolescents.

ADA data content standards available for comment

The draft standards are available for review and comment until Nov. 27.

ADA standards on CBCT systems, DICOM available for comment

The draft standards are available for review and comment until Dec. 5.

ADA data content standards available for comment

The draft standards are available for review and comment until Nov. 27.

ADA standards on CBCT systems, DICOM available for comment

The draft standards are available for review and comment until Dec. 5.

ADA treasurer details changes in Association dues

ADA Treasurer Cody Graves, D.D.S., M.B.A., detailed the decision to adjust the full membership dues and what it means for ADA members. 

3 things you missed in government this week

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

FDA to restrict sale of fluoride supplements, halting previously promised ban

The FDA announced that it plans to restrict the sale of unapproved ingestible fluoride prescription drug products for children.  

ADA treasurer details changes in Association dues

ADA Treasurer Cody Graves, D.D.S., M.B.A., detailed the decision to adjust the full membership dues and what it means for ADA members. 

You Ask, We Answer: Is water fluoridation effective in helping to prevent tooth decay?

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

Dear ADA: Exclusivity clauses

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

ADA president details ‘year of constant challenges,’ growth, change

Brett Kessler, D.D.S., concludes his term as the ADA’s 161st president on Oct. 28 after overseeing a year of unprecedented challenges.

‘Together we’re creating that future’

Richard J. Rosato Rosato, of Concord, New Hampshire, assumed office as the 162nd ADA president at the close of the House of Delegates.

ADA presidential citation honors dentist killed in Oklahoma City bombing

Charles Hurlburt, D.D.S., was a retired University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry professor who died in the bombing 30 years ago.

Thomas M. Paumier, D.D.S., voted ADA president-elect

Thomas M. Paumier, D.D.S., from Canton, Ohio, was voted president-elect Oct. 27 by the ADA House of Delegates.

Highlighting facts about community water fluoridation

Liz Lense, D.D.S., and Scott L. Tomar, D.M.D., discuss public water fluoridation science at Smilecon 2025

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.

Select your representatives for the ISDS HOD

Time is running out to select your representatives for the 2025 ISDS House of Delegates!