The Western Los Angeles Dental Society (WLADS) is a nonprofit professional association and a component of the California Dental Association (CDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA). Its mission is to help member dentists provide excellent patient care and to serve the South Bay and Western Los Angeles community with dental resources and outreach.
Western Los Angeles Dental Society (WLADS)
Western Los Angeles Dental Society (WLADS)
Overview and Mission
Geographic Coverage
WLADS serves three major regions in Los Angeles County:
- Northern: Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Westwood, Century City, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Rancho
- Central: Mar Vista, Venice, Culver City, Palms, Marina Del Rey, Playa Del Rey, Westchester, Inglewood, El Segundo, Hawthorne
- Southern: Manhattan Beach, Lawndale, Gardena (portion), Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance (portion), Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills
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Membership and Benefits
As a tripartite member, WLADS members are also enrolled in CDA and ADA. Key benefits include:
- Patient referral directory and services
- Practice management and consulting
- Advocacy with insurance and legislators
- Peer review and complaint resolution
- Continuing education at local and national levels
- Employee placement and networking services
- Discounts on endorsed products (credit cards, financing, insurance, etc.)
- Legal and regulatory updates
Programs and Services
Continuing Education (CE)
WLADS provides members with access to cutting-edge CE courses locally, at CDA Presents, and through ADA’s annual sessions. Explore upcoming CE opportunities here.
Community Service
WLADS hosts outreach events like Give Kids a Smile in partnership with Southbay Children’s Health Center, as well as resources for the public and members during emergencies (e.g., wildfires).
Advocacy
Legislative and regulatory advocacy is a priority, including updates on scope of practice, licensure, and employment law changes.
Publications
Members receive the seasonal “Westviews” newsletter with society updates, legal alerts, and clinical tips.
Leadership and Governance
Executive Director: Michel Schneider (Compensation: $110,000 as of 2025)
2025 Officers:
- President: Marc Hayashi, DMD
- President-Elect: Valerie Harada, DDS
- Treasurer: Mark Wood, DDS
- Secretary: Danielle Brown, DDS
Financial Overview
- 2022 Revenue: $349,520 from program services
- Investment Income: $36,321
- Total Assets: $1,254,599
- Total Liabilities: $30,824
Contact Information
- Website: www.westernlads.org
- Newsletter: Westviews
- General Inquiries: Contact via website form
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | 501(c)(6) nonprofit professional association |
| Area Served | Western Los Angeles County (Northern, Central, Southern) |
| Membership | Tripartite: ADA, CDA, WLADS |
| Key Benefits | CE, advocacy, networking, referrals, insurance, legal updates |
| Outreach | Give Kids a Smile, public resources, emergency care |
| Leadership | Michel Schneider, Marc Hayashi, DMD |
| Financials (2022) | $349,520 revenue, $1.25M assets |
| Website | www.westernlads.org |