. . . . there is a difference!!!
Choosing a dentist can be complicated. In addition to looking for a dentist you like and respect, you may also need to consider location, hours and insurance.
You may want to consider a dentist recommended by your friends, family or neighbor. One more important factor: Most Oklahoma families choose Oklahoma Dental Association member dentists for their care.
How Does This Relate To My Family's Dental Care?
While all licensed dentists may practice dentistry, not all dentists agree to the ethical code, practice standards and other requirements of an Oklahoma Dental Association member dentist.
To be a member of ODA, your dentist makes a commitment to uphold the high standards of the dental profession. ODA members also agree to observe a code of ethics and concur with the Association's purpose:
- to encourage the improvement of the public's oral health;
- to promote oral health care;
- to help ODA member dentists keep abreast of the latest techniques in dentistry through education and training;
- to advance the art and science of dentistry; and
- to remind the dental profession of its responsibility to society.
How Many Dentists Belong to ODA?
More than 1,600 Oklahoma dentists are members of the Oklahoma Dental Association. ODA member dentists also belong to their local dental society and to the American Dental Association.
Do ODA Members Follow Appropriate Infection Control Procedures?
Members of the Oklahoma Dental Association observe universal precautions, the dental patient's greatest assurance of safety during dental procedures.
The Association, through continuing education programs, regularly updates members on the latest scientific developments and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other organizations to ensure infection control procedures are state-of-the-art.
How Do ODA Members Keep Up-to-Date on Other Issues in Dentistry?
While Oklahoma dentists are required to obtain 60 hours of certified continuing education every three years for re-licensure, the Oklahoma Dental Association makes available more than 150 hours of educational programming annually.
How Can Being an ODA Member Help If I Have a Problem With My Dentist?
ODA member dentists agree to be judged by a jury of their peers when a problem arises concerning clinical treatment or disputes with third-party payers. As a patient of an ODA member dentist, you have the right to request formal review of your case through the mediation review process offered by the Oklahoma Dental Association. Unfortunately, if you are treated by a dentist who is not an ODA member dentist, this option may be more difficult for you, possibly making your recourse a lengthy and potentially costly legal process.
What Other Advantages Do ODA Members Have...?
Through the Oklahoma Dental Association, member dentists have access to a variety of professional and educational resources that assist them in providing you with outstanding dental care. These include a range of scientific and informational publications, a dental health education film library, local and statewide patient and community education projects, and, through the American Dental Association, the world's largest dental library.
...And How Does That Benefit Their Patients?
A major focus of the Oklahoma Dental Association is educating the public about better oral health. Your ODA member dentist has access to patient education and information materials for patients of all ages that can teach you -- as well as your children and parents -- the best ways to keep your teeth healthy and attractive for a lifetime.
How Can I Find Out If My Dentist Is a Member...Or Find One Who Is?
Ask! Or look for the ODA member dentist's logo in your dentist's office. If you need the names of ODA member dentists in your area, call the Oklahoma Dental Association.
If You Have Another Question...
Call the Oklahoma Dental Association with any questions or comments. We'd like to hear from you! Email us at information@okda.org or contact us at:
Oklahoma Dental Association
317 NE 13th Street
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
(405) 848-8873 • (800) 876-8890 • Fax (405) 848-887