Alexandria, VA – The American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR) has announced Representative Debbie Dingell as the recipient of the 2026 AADOCR Honorary Membership. She was recognized during the Opening Ceremonies of the 55 th Annual Meeting of the AADOCR, which was held in conjunction with the 104 th General Session of the International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (IADR) and the 50 th Annual Meeting of the Canadian Association for Dental Research on March 25-28, 2026 in San Diego, CA.
Rep. Dingell was granted honorary AADOCR membership in recognition of her commitment to biomedical research, and her dedication to improving access to quality oral health care for all. Her authorship and sponsorship of the U.S. Comprehensive Dental Care Reform Act of 2024 exemplifies her commitment to evidence-based policy and her understanding of the vital connection between oral health and overall health. This legislation proposes to make dental care an essential benefit under the U.S. Affordable Care Act, significantly expand dental coverage, and increase access through enhanced funding for health centers, schools, nursing homes, and mobile delivery units across the country.
Rep. Dingell has championed targeted initiatives to increase the oral health workforce in underserved communities, supported robust educational programs for current and aspiring oral health professionals, and invested in research for prevention and disease management. Her efforts have been especially significant for seniors, low-income families, pregnant women, veterans, people with disabilities, and communities of color, who face some of the highest barriers to accessing dental care.
Honorary Members are non-members, selected based on the candidate’s significant contribution to, or support of, dental, oral, or craniofacial research.
About AADOCR
The American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research is a nonprofit organization with a mission to drive dental, oral, and craniofacial research to advance health and well-being. AADOCR represents the individual scientists, clinician-scientists, dental professionals, and students based in academic, government, non-profit, and private-sector institutions who share our mission. AADOCR is the largest division of the International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research. Learn more at www.aadocr.org .