NDA Day On The Hill

NDA Day on the Hill: Advancing Oral Health Policy

This marked a powerful return to Capitol Hill with a renewed mission to champion health equity and oral care access for all communities. The event, held in the heart of Washington D.C., brought together dental professionals, healthcare policy experts, lawmakers, and advocates for a day of dialogue, strategy, and mobilization around critical issues impacting oral health.

Founded on principles of healthcare equity, and social justice, the NDA has long been a leading voice in addressing the oral health needs of underserved populations. The 2025 edition of NDA Day on The Hill reaffirmed that legacy, providing a platform for meaningful legislative engagement and reinforcing the role of dentistry in shaping broader public health policy.

This year, three important pieces of legislation were highlighted for their impact on oral health and dental care. The first is H.R. 1219, the Oral Health Products Inclusion Act, which aims to expand access to essential oral care products. The second is the Action for Dental Health Act (H.R. 2001), part of the Public Health Service Act, which addresses critical workforce needs in the dental profession. Lastly, the Resident Education Deferred Interest Act (REDI Act), H.R. 2028/S. 942, focuses on supporting dental and medical residents by deferring interest on student loans during their residency. These legislative efforts reflect a growing commitment to improving oral health access, education, and workforce development.

The event had several dynamic panel discussions featuring leaders in dentistry, healthcare policy, public health, and legislators. Panelists explored the persistent disparities in oral healthcare access and outlined policy interventions that could help close these gaps. Experts emphasized the critical need for data-driven solutions, federal investment in oral health infrastructure, and inclusive policies that recognize oral health as integral to overall well-being.

The program also featured a keynote presentation by Representative Robin Kelly (IL-02), who underscored the legislative priorities central to the NDA’s mission. Members of Congress graciously joined the event to share their perspectives on healthcare reform and the importance of including oral health in national policy discussions. Their presence and remarks highlighted the growing bipartisan recognition of the connection between oral and systemic health, as well as the vital contributions of dental professionals to community health delivery.

“[The] National Dental Association was founded on the premise of advancing health care equity, professionalism and social justice.” said Dr. Leslie Grant, NDA Day on the Hill Chair.  “NDA ‘Day on The Hill’ provides a pathway for legislative action on issues that impact our communities, and an opportunity for policymakers to know that we are a valuable resource.” Dr, Grant, a past president of the NDA, was instrumental in bringing back NDA Day on The Hill,  a program that thrived under her presidency.

As the NDA celebrates the return of NDA Day on The Hill, the message is clear: the fight for oral health equity is far from over, but the resolve among dental professionals and advocates is strong. With renewed energy and focus, the NDA is positioning itself as a key resource for policymakers and oral healthcare professionals committed to ensuring that every American has access to quality dental care.

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