Declining attendance, rising costs force the association to make difficult decision to end SmileCon after October event in Washington, DC.
By Stan Goff, Senior Managing Editor
When the American Dental Association (ADA) hosts its annual SmileCon meeting in October, it will be for the final time, as attendance declines in recent years is bringing the longtime trade show to an end.
The ADA officially announced that its flagship annual meeting, SmileCon, will hold its final event in October 2025 in Washington, D.C. The association sent out an email recently notifying its members that, “After careful consideration, the ADA has made the difficult decision that SmileCon will conclude following our 2025 event. We came to this decision to adapt to changes in attendance trends and rising costs, ensuring we continue to provide the best value and resources to our members.”
The email also noted that some type of annual scientific session is required by the Governance and Organizational Manual of the ADA, adding that “While this news may be unexpected, please rest assured that the ADA’s commitment to providing high-quality continuing education and fostering connection within the dental community is stronger than ever. We are actively developing new and exciting ways to deliver valuable experiences and look forward to sharing more updates in the future.”
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.
In 2021, ADA launched SmileCon as a big, bold reimagining of the annual meeting. It was designed as an offering of inspiration, delight, empowerment, and connection for dental professionals. The announcement stated: “Not only did you take us up on the offer, but you made SmileCon better than we could have ever imagined. The curiosity, insights, and ingenuity you brought to the event are living proof of the vibrant community the ADA continues to build together.”
According to the association, despite positive feedback and a growing base of repeat attendees, SmileCon just struggled to regain its pre-pandemic attendance levels.
In the email, signed by ADA president Brett Kessler, DDS, the association tanked its past attendees and supporters and stated: “We know SmileCon has been a valuable experience for many, offering a unique space for learning, networking and discovering the latest in dental innovation. We deeply appreciate your past participation and the energy you brought to our gatherings. For more information, please visit our FAQ page on this topic.”
SmileCon 2025
SmileCon 2025 in Washington, D.C., Oct. 23 to October 25, is happening as planned. The ADA invites you to join for “what promises to be a monumental experience, packed with exceptional educational content, networking and opportunities to connect with peers and leaders in dentistry.”
2026 Event Cancelled
While the 2025 conference in Washington, D.C. will proceed as planned, the ADA has confirmed that SmileCon 2026, initially planned for Indianapolis, will not take place. Registration for next year’s event had not yet opened. The association is coordinating with the Indiana Dental Association and Visit Indy to explore other future opportunities in the city. SmileCon 2024 was held in New Orleans last October.
