News Items

Aug 26, 2025

ADA Extends Well-Being Index to Dental Team Members

In an effort to support the mental well-being of all dental professionals, the American Dental Association is expanding free access to the Well-Being Index to dental team members and nonmember dentists.

Aug 4, 2025

ADA: How Does the One Big Beautiful Bill Affect Dentists?

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, H.R. 1, passed the Senate July 1, passed as amended in the House of Representatives on July 3 and was signed by President Trump July 4. The legislation contains several measures “with a direct impact” on dentists and dental practices around the country.

Jul 31, 2025

ADA: Fluoride FAQ for Your Patients

Community water fluoridation continues to be a hot topic in the news, and your patients may have some concerns about what they’re hearing. Share the facts with answers to common questions about fluoride in their water supply to inform them about safe concentration levels and celebrate what makes water fluoridation a public health win.

Jul 17, 2025

DOH: Certificates, Licenses and Renewal Notices Are Now Digital

The Washington State Department of Health recently launched the Healthcare Enforcement and Licensing Management System (HELMS), a new licensing system for all healthcare professionals and facilities. HELMS brings applications and credentialing online through a modern, self-service user portal.

Jul 8, 2025

Save the Date for Dental Action Day: Thursday, January 22

Join dentists from across the state on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Dental Action Day in Olympia to meet with your legislators and advocate for dental benefits reform and other issues affecting the dental profession. One profession, one voice!

Jul 7, 2025

2025 Legislative Session Summary

Washington state’s 105-day legislative session adjourned on Sunday, April 27, 2025. WSDA advocated in support of as well as in opposition to several bills concerning dental-related issues, workforce challenges, insurance matters, small business issues, employer-employee matters, and other related topics.

Jun 23, 2025

Update on Adult, Pediatric Medicaid Reimbursement

Beginning July 1, 2025, reimbursement rates for both adult and pediatric dental Medicaid will decrease. This change is a result of budget cuts enacted by lawmakers during the 2025 legislative session.

Jun 18, 2025

Dr. John Evans: Advice for Advisors

"We’ve all had mentors who helped us along the way, along with some advisors who have not been helpful. The effective advisor is helpful, courteous and careful."

Jun 13, 2025

Recent Email Scams Targeting Dental Offices: What to Watch For and How to Respond

WSDA recently became aware of email phishing scams affecting Washington dental offices, where unauthorized messages are being sent directly from the office’s legitimate email address. We urge dental offices to review email security measures and to not open attachments or click links in emails unless you’re confident the message is legitimate.

Jun 12, 2025

ADA Offers Supports to Help Dentists, Students Prioritize Mental Health

The American Dental Association offers various supports to help its member dentists and dental students get started, including free access to the Well-Being Index, an anonymous, validated assessment and measurement tool developed by Mayo Clinic to address clinician distress and well-being.