The American Dental Association Foundation's (ADAF) dental research enterprise at the Paffenbarger Research Center (PRC) has been hailed as one of the most productive in the world. ADA and ADAF research scientists have engaged in cooperative dental and medical materials research with government scientists since 1928. This collaboration at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST, formerly NBS, the National Bureau of Standards, a government research laboratory managed by the U.S. Department of Commerce) has in many respects revolutionized the practice of dentistry.

The Research Institute conducts investigations on emerging oral health care issues relevant to the general health of the public and the occupational health of the dental professionals.  The Research Institute provides timely scientific findings for the benefit of public and the profession on public health issues identified by the Council on Scientific Affairs and the association's Research Agenda.  Investigative findings are communicated through multiple venues for scientific information exchange, including peer reviewed publications and presentations at national and international scientific meetings.