The ODA has been the voluntary professional association for dentists in Ontario since 1867. Today, we represent more than 10,000, or nine in 10, dentists across the province. The ODA is Ontario’s primary source of information on oral health and the dental profession.

Through inspired leadership, the Ontario Dental Association advocates for its members, promotes optimal oral health and supports successful professional lives and general well-being. To achieve this, we:

  • Promote the highest standards of dental care.
  • Work with governments, the private sector and other health-care professionals.
  • Advocate on public policies that affect the practice of dentistry and the oral health of people in Ontario.
  • Raise public awareness of how important oral hygiene is and its connection to overall health.
  • Provide our member-dentists with programs, services and products to support their role as leaders of the oral health care team.

The ODA is a member of the Canadian Dental Association.

Our History

On January 23, 1868, a bill was presented to the new Ontario legislature to regulate the practice of dentistry in Ontario. An Act Respecting Dentistry was passed on March 3, 1868 and full powers of licensing and regulating were placed in the hands of the dental profession.

The Act was the first legislation in the world to grant self-regulation to dentists. Prior to the Act, frauds and imposters with little-to-no medical knowledge and skills advertised themselves as dentists. In the absence of any standards and regulations, the public had no means to distinguish good dentistry from bad, and it put them in danger of injury, infection and even death.

In 2017, we celebrated the anniversary of the Act, the formation of the ODA and 150 years of leading oral health in Ontario. Find out more about the history of dentistry in Ontario and the ODA at 150.oda.ca.

Our Mission

Through inspired leadership, the Ontario Dental Association advocates for its members, promotes optimal oral health, and supports successful professional lives and general well-being.

Read our 2021-2025 Strategic Plan.

Our Vision

To be the most trusted leader in the dental profession.

Our Values

Excellence
Teamwork
Honesty
Inclusiveness
Compassion
Accountability
Leadership

The difference between the ODA and the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario

In Ontario, the dental profession is supported by a regulatory body, the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO), and a professional association, the ODA. Download the RCDSO and ODA: Understanding Their Unique Roles fact sheet, which presents the distinct roles and responsibilities and unique functions and objectives each organization holds within the profession.

Learn more about the ODA and the dental profession:

Leadership and Governance

The General Council is the governing body of the ODA. It elects the Board of Directors and approves changes to the ODA’s By-laws.

ODA Member Code of Conduct

The members of The Ontario Dental Association, recognizing the privilege granted to us to practice dentistry.

Remote Areas Program

ODA’s Remote Areas Program delivers care in about 30 communities spread throughout northwestern Ontario

Careers at the ODA

ODA employs people in many fields, including government relations, finance, health policy, public affairs and communications.

Become an ODA Member

The ODA supports the successful professional lives and general well-being of its members through practice management help, education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and partnerships.

Practicing Dentistry in Ontario

Dentistry is a rapidly changing, expanding, and rewarding profession. The scope of a dentist’s work is much broader today than ever before.

ODA Strategic Plan 2021-2025

Our Strategic Plan is the ODA’s guide to navigating the next three years, ensuring we can support our members, advance the dental profession and create collaborative relationships with various stakeholders for the benefit of our members and all Ontarians.

Ontario Dentists: Become a member of the ODA

ODA works hard to be more than just your association. We want to be a real partner, offering a steady flow of support. As a member, you have exclusive access to an extensive list of valuable products, services and programs that will help you to expand your potential.

Join now!