TOLL-FREE CONSUMER SERVICE

What is the toll-free consumer service?

A non-profit, toll-free consumer service available to consumers in the United States and Canada 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll-free service was launched on January 10, 2000 to raise public awareness of the importance of visiting a dentist at least twice a year and to make locating a dentist much easier for consumers.

Calling 877-2X-A-YEAR (877-292-9327) from anywhere in the United States or Canada 24 hours a day, seven days a week, operators will provide consumers with names, address and phone numbers of up to three general dentists, all members of the Academy of General Dentistry. Callers should be prepared to provide their ZIP code or the name of a city or region.

Who can call the toll-free consumer service?

From the privacy of their home or office, anyone can call to speak with an operator about locating a dentist near their home, work or school.

Bilingual operators are available to answer calls from Spanish-speaking consumers.

What are the top reasons consumers call this toll-free service?

• I do not have a regular dentist
• I am new to the area
• I have a regular dentist
• I have a dental problem

What dentists belong to this service?

More than 37,000 Academy of General Dentistry members.

Academy members are automatically enrolled in the toll-free consumer service. No additional dues are paid to belong to the service.

What is a general dentist?

A general dentist is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. The general dentist is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, management and overall coordination of services related to patient's oral health needs.

What sets the Academy of General Dentistry apart from other dental organizations?

The Academy of General Dentistry is the only organization dedicated solely to the general dentist. Committed to providing quality care and patient education to the public, Academy members are required to take 75 hours of continuing education courses every three years. However, most members average more than 40 hours each year.

Continuing education helps Academy members stay up-to-date on oral health issues, which are important to the consumers' dental and overall health.