You’ve probably seen the ADA Seal of Acceptance when shopping for toothpaste or mouthwash, but what exactly does it mean? Find out about how dental care products receive this seal and why you should look for it before you buy.

With so many dental products to choose from, how do you know what is best? Well, let’s start with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. The American Dental Association is the oldest and largest dental organization in the world. They created the Seal of Acceptance in hopes of helping consumers choose effective products. Currently, consumers can choose from over 200 products that carry the seal. Each product has been scientifically tested by experts to prove its safety and effectiveness.

While many dental products apply for the seal, not all of them are eligible. Products with the seal often have to meet additional requirements aside from what is required by law. Clinical and/or laboratory studies must prove certain conditions are met. If at any point, the product does not meet the expectations, it cannot qualify for acceptance. If the product does meet the qualifications, it is awarded the seal for 5 years. Any changes the product undergoes within the next 5 years must be approved by the ADA in order to maintain the seal.

Not only does the ADA have strict guidelines about the products themselves, but also the packaging they come in. The ADA requires that all claims made on the packaging are accurate, which they will verify. On top of that, products with the seal must adhere to the ADA’s advertising and marketing standards. Needless to say, you can guarantee a product with the ADA Seal of Acceptance is safe, reliable, and high quality.

It is important to note that the seal is not just found on toothpaste and toothbrushes. The seal can be found on a number of items including select whitening products, chewing gum, water flossers, and more. Therefore, it is important to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance for all of your oral hygiene needs.

Does this mean products without the seal are not effective? There’s no simple answer to this. Products without the seal may be good, but they may not be. There is no assurance that these products can do everything they claim to. This is a risk many consumers are unwilling to take when there are plenty of products that have the seal and are backed by science.

Put an end to walking up and down the aisle confused about which dental care products to choose. Make the right choice and purchase products that boast the ADA Seal of Acceptance. By doing so, you will have peace of mind that you are making the best decisions for your health.