Conceived in 1920 and established in 1927, the organization seeks to 'honor outstanding professional achievement, meritorious service, and dedication to the continued progress of dentistry for the benefit of humankind'.

The ICD is a non-profit organization that fundraises for and supports a wide range of humanitarian and educational projects aimed at improving oral health in underserved communities around the world.

The ICD was conceived in 1920 at a farewell party in Tokyo for Dr. Louis Ottofy when he was returning home to the United States after practicing dentistry in the Philippines and Japan for 23 years.

There are international standing and ad hoc committees, and 'Sections' (mostly based on countries) and 'Regions' (smaller areas) that largely manage their activities autonomously.

A nominated dentist must pass a peer-review process leading to the recognition of the individual’s “outstanding professional achievement, meritorious service, and dedication to the continued progress of dentistry for the benefit of humankind".