Dear ADAA Members,
As we come out of an incredible week celebrating Dental Assistants Recognition Week, I find myself reflecting on just how powerful this community truly is. Across the country, dental assistants were recognized in operatories, classrooms, and offices with balloons, appreciation lunches, heartfelt messages, gifts, and well-deserved gratitude. But beyond the celebrations, what stood out to me most was something even more meaningful — the pride, professionalism, and passion that each of you bring to this profession every single day.
Dental assistants are the heartbeat of dentistry. We are the calm voices when a patient is nervous. We are the steady hands supporting clinical excellence. We are the connection that holds teams together and keeps practices moving forward. This week reminded the entire dental community of something ADAA members have always known ;what we do matters.
I want to extend my sincere appreciation to everyone who shared photos, stories, and moments from your Dental Assistants Recognition Week celebrations. Seeing assistants from across the country lifting one another up is inspiring and a powerful reminder that we are stronger when we celebrate our profession together. I would also like to thank the many ADAA leaders and members who continue to advocate for dental assistants in their states and communities. From legislative updates to workforce discussions, your voices are helping shape the future of dental assisting. When assistants engage, organize, and speak with professionalism and purpose, real progress happens.
As we move forward this year, my hope is that the energy from this week continues to fuel our mission. ADAA remains committed to supporting education, leadership development, and opportunities that elevate dental assistants and strengthen our role within the oral healthcare team. Each of you plays a part in that future. Whether you are mentoring a new assistant, pursuing continuing education, advocating in your state, or simply showing up each day committed to excellent patient care, you are helping move this profession forward. Thank you for being part of this incredible community and for representing dental assisting with skill, compassion, and professionalism. Together, we will continue to grow, lead, and support one another.
With gratitude,
Erin Hendricks, RDA, CCHW
President, ADAA
“Alone we can accomplish a little at a time; together we can accomplish so much more.”