Iowa Dental Association

08/20/2025

Is your maternity leave policy clear and supportive? Want to learn best practices for maternity, paternity, and other types of leave? Create a practice that works for everyone at the virtual after hours with IADAPT!

Learn more and how to register at iowadental.org/iadapt

08/19/2025

Des Moines District Dental Society members are invited to the legislative happy hour at Brick and Ivy Rooftop in Altoona on September 26!

The Happy Hour will begin immediately following the fall meeting and is just a short drive from Prairie Meadows. Connect with peers and local legislators to discuss key issues impacting your profession!

08/15/2025

Feeling stressed about the process of hiring or firing in your practice?

Learn why having clear, documented HR processes is essential. Not just from a legal perspective, but also through the lens of organizational psychology. Gain the tools to protect your business and support your team at the virtual after hours with IADAPT!

Visit iowadental.org/iadapt for more information and a link to register.

08/12/2025

We are excited to announce that we have partnered with Patton Insurance Benefits to bring you a Level-Funded Group Health Insurance Plan, an exclusive new benefit for IDA members and their employees.

✅ 7% monthly premium savings
✅ Cost-effective alternative to ACA plans
✅ Expert support from an Iowa-based team with 50+ years of experience

Members have been asking for a health insurance option, and we're proud to deliver one that offers real value and excellent customer service.

Learn how you and your team can benefit from this new program at iowadental.org/member-services/endorsed-companies

07/31/2025

Discover what passive aggressive behavior really is and how to recognize it – both in yourself and in others.

Visit iowadental.org/iadapt to learn more about the IADAPT program, which offers three free coaching/therapy sessions to all dentists in Iowa!

07/29/2025

07/24/2025

Advocacy is stronger when we do it together. By supporting IDPAC, Iowa dentists are making sure our voices are heard — and that our future stays in our hands.

Make your contribution at bit.ly/4lnkzDO

07/22/2025

Midway through summer is a great time to pause and check in on your well-being. Need someone to talk to about something you’ve got on your mind? Schedule a one-on-one through the IADAPT program for free, unbiased, confidential support.

If workplace HR issues are adding stress, join IADAPT’s info session on “HR Issues in Dental Practices” on September 4.

Learn more at iowadental.org/iadapt

07/17/2025

The IDA is honored to present the 2025 Guest of Honor Award to Drs. Carolyn and Jim Larsen, two lifelong leaders whose individual and shared contributions have shaped the dental profession in Iowa and beyond.

Together, they’ve served in nearly every level of organized dentistry—from district and state leadership to national representation through the ADA. Dr. Carolyn Larsen is known for her years as an IDA Trustee, committee chair, foundation board member, and adjunct faculty at the University of Iowa. Dr. Jim Larsen has served as President of both the Davenport District and the IDA, an ADA delegate, a longtime trustee, and an educator.

Now enjoying retirement and family, Jim and Carolyn leave a powerful legacy of service, mentorship, and advocacy. The IDA is proud to recognize their lasting impact and deep commitment to the profession!

07/16/2025

Meet the IDA Vice President, Dr. Ammon Anderson of Sioux City. Since 2023, he served as Northwest District Dental Society Trustee and now steps into this leadership position with a passion for advocacy and a deep commitment to supporting Iowa dentists at every stage of their careers.

“I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who modeled servant leadership,” Dr. Anderson shared. “Getting involved is the first step toward making a difference.”

He's focused on key issues like access to care, reimbursement, workforce challenges, and making sure the IDA remains a strong voice for the profession.

The IDA looks forward to continue working alongside Dr. Anderson in the coming years!

07/11/2025

Congratulations to Dr. Sara Stuefen, recipient of the 2025 IDA President’s Award, for her outstanding leadership in organized dentistry and dedication to both the IDA and ADA.

Dr. Stuefen serves as ADA 10th District Trustee and is on the IDPAC Board and IDA Legislative Committee. A graduate of the ADA Institute for Diversity in Leadership, she also lectures nationwide through the ADA Success Program and contributes to national dental quality standards.

With more than a decade of service to the IDA, Dr. Stuefen is a respected voice in the profession—advocating for policy change, mentoring future dentists, and shaping the future of dentistry.

07/10/2025

"I contribute to IDPAC at the Charter Member Tier because it helps ensure our profession has a strong and united voice with the legislature. IDPAC helps protect and improve my ability to practice dentistry. As IDPAC contributors, we can help lead and shape the future of dentistry. I encourage you to join me as a Charter Member today!"

Donate to IDPAC at iowadental.org/advocacy/idpac/idpac-contribution-levels