The American Dental Association will conclude its SmileCon annual conference after the 2025 event, citing post-COVID attendance challenges and rising operational costs.
The American Dental Association (ADA) officially announced that its flagship annual meeting, SmileCon, will hold its final event in October 2025 in Washington, DC. According to the association, despite consistently positive feedback and a growing base of repeat attendees, SmileCon has struggled to regain its pre-pandemic attendance levels. This, coupled with increasing event costs, led the ADA to make what it called a “difficult decision” to sunset the event starting in 2026.
A Legacy of Connection and Innovation
“SmileCon has been much more than a professional conference; it’s been a showcase of the best dentistry has to offer,” said ADA President Brett Kessler, DDS. “It’s where new ideas have been shared and where the dental community has come together to shape the future of oral and overall health.” Kessler also extended gratitude to past attendees, sponsors, vendors, and host cities for their roles in the event’s success.
Originally launched in 2021 as a reinvention of the ADA’s annual meeting, SmileCon aimed to foster inspiration, empowerment, and community for dental professionals. The upcoming event, scheduled for October 23 to 25, 2025, will be the last installment.
2026 Event in Indianapolis Canceled
While the 2025 conference in Washington, DC will proceed as planned, the ADA confirmed that SmileCon 2026, initially slated for Indianapolis, will not take place. Registration for the Indianapolis event had not yet opened. The ADA is coordinating with the Indiana Dental Association and Visit Indy to explore other future opportunities in the city.
Scientific Sessions Will Continue
The ADA reassured members that its legislative and policy-making body, the House of Delegates, will continue to meet annually, including sessions in both 2025 and 2026. Furthermore, the ADA emphasized that it remains committed to hosting an annual scientific session, as mandated by its Governance and Organizational Manual. Plans for new formats and experiences are underway.
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Looking Ahead
In an email to past attendees, Kessler acknowledged the emotional weight of the decision: “The curiosity, insights, and ingenuity you brought to the event are living proof of the vibrant community the ADA continues to build together.” He encouraged members to attend the final SmileCon in Washington, calling it a “monumental experience” and urging the community to make it the most memorable one yet.
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