2025-2026 IDPAC Kickoff

The 2025–2026 IDPAC campaign is here, and your support is vital. Iowa lawmakers make decisions that impact your practice and patients—Medicaid, insurance, workforce, and water fluoridation. Your contribution ensures dentistry has a voice at the Capitol. IDPAC, led by volunteer Iowa dentists, uses every dollar to support pro-dentistry candidates. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned professional, your support—big or small—matters. Together, we can shape the future of dentistry in Iowa.

Dr. Ryan Hajek Installed as the 162nd IDA President

Congratulations to Dr. Ryan Hajek (Council Bluffs), who was installed as the 162nd IDA President!

Mark Your Calendar for IDEAS26

IDEAS will be coming back to Des Moines in 2026 on April 30-May 2 at the Iowa Events Center!

Volunteer Registration Now Open!

Register to volunteer at the Iowa Mission of Mercy (IMOM) 2025 on September 19-20 at the Hyatt Regency Coralville! IMOM has been transforming lives and helping patients since 2008, and we’ve provided over 18,583  patients free dental care totaling over $13.3 million, but we’re not done yet! We are looking for a wide range of volunteers, including dental professionals and general volunteers.

Save With Best Card

Dental offices save an average of $6,671 (28%) per year compared to 
previous processors. Enjoy exclusive low rates, guaranteed for the life of your account, and equipment discounts available only to members.

IADAPT

The Iowa Dental Advocacy for Professional and Personal Thriving (IADAPT) program has officially launched! IADAPT will provide all Iowa dentists three free, confidential, one-hour coaching / therapy sessions with a licensed provider from Flowstate Health. Click the button below to learn more and to schedule your first appointment!

Make Your Voice Heard in Iowa Politics!

While the IDA’s presence at the Iowa Statehouse continues to grow, we need to ensure we can continue to build relationships with key legislators. Our BEST advocacy tool is IDPAC. By contributing to IDPAC, you are investing in our advocacy work and the future of dentistry in Iowa. Help us continue protecting your ability to practice and serve your patients.

Welcome to the Iowa Dental Association

The Iowa Dental Association (IDA) is the premier professional association representing dentists in the state of Iowa. In existence since 1863, the IDA is home to over 1,800 Iowa dentists, which represents approximately 80% of the licensed dentists in the state.  

All IDA member dentists are not only members of the IDA, but also the American Dental Association (ADA) and their local district society.

IDA’s mission is to encourage the improvement of the health of the public, to promote the art and science of dentistry, and to represent the interests of the members of the dental profession and the public which it serves.  

In the News

Iowa Dental Board Update on Dental Assistant Law and Renewal Process

Jul 2, 2025

The Iowa Dental Board, through the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), issued the following statement about dental assistants in light of the new law and registration renewal: 

Regulatory Update and Renewal Notice 

2025 Iowa Acts HF 805 

Effective July 1, 2025, registration is no longer required to practice as a dental assistant in Iowa. Registration continues to be an option for those who are interested. Please note that Iowa law still requires dental assistants who take x-rays to obtain and hold a current qualification in dental radiography. Registration for dental assistants performing expanded functions is optional. The Board will update rules in the coming months. Click here for more information about House File 805. 

Renewal of Registrations & Radiography Qualifications 

Renewal Begins July 2025 

Dental assistants only need to submit a renewal application if they intend to renew a registration and/or radiography qualification. Dental assistants who are not renewing a registration or qualification do not need to take any action.  

Modifications to Database Implementing HF 805 

Modifications to the database to implement House File 805 will be completed by July 15, 2025. Individuals who wish to only renew their radiography qualification should wait to begin renewal until this date. Dental assistants who wish to renew both their registration and radiography qualification may do so beginning July 1, 2025.    

Registration/qualification numbers begin with one of the following designations.  

  •       RDA: Registered Dental Assistant一No Radiography Qualification  

  •       QDA: Registered Dental Assistant with a Radiography Qualification 

  •       XDA: Radiography Qualification for Non-Registered Dental Assistants or Licensed Nurses 

Renewal Options for Registered Dental Assistants with Dental Radiography Qualifications 

Dental assistants who hold a registration and radiography qualification (QDA) will need to indicate the preference for renewal. If you hold a QDA and want to renew, you have the following options: 

  • Remain a QDA by completing the QDA renewal; or 

  • Renew only the radiography qualification without registration by completing the XDA renewal July 15, 2025, or later. A new XDA number and card will be issued to you.  

Note: Dental assistants uncertain about whether or not to renew registration should consult with their employer to verify what requirements, if any, he or she may have.

Events

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