Mid-Peninsula Dental Society (MPDS)

Serving the Mid-Peninsula Dental Community Since 1956

History and Background

The Mid-Peninsula Dental Society (MPDS) was officially chartered on January 19, 1956, after a group of local dentists from Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and Los Altos recognized the need for a regional dental society. It later expanded to include Mountain View, forming a unique bi-county organization serving both San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.

First President: Frederick C. Hadeler

Initial Coverage: Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Los Altos (Mountain View joined later)

Geographic Boundaries: West—Skyline Boulevard, East—San Francisco Bay

Membership and Leadership

Current Membership: 274 dentists (as of 2024)

The society holds annual elections for officers and directors and maintains a complete archive of past presidents, underscoring its strong tradition of leadership in the Bay Area dental community.

Mission and Activities

Mission: To advance dentistry, support professional growth, and serve the public through education, advocacy, and outreach.

Key Activities:

Continuing Education: Seminars, study clubs, educational events (first seminar held in 1957)
Public Education: CPR training, dental law sessions, biohazard waste education
Civic Projects: MPDS spearheaded the 1956 campaign to fluoridate Palo Alto’s water supply

Community Involvement

MPDS dentists actively participate in free dental clinics, school screenings, and public education efforts throughout the mid-Peninsula region. Their history includes civic engagement like advocacy for fluoridation and supporting community-wide oral health initiatives.

Organization and Financial Overview

Type: 501(c)(6) nonprofit business league
Purpose: Improve business conditions for dental professionals
Employees: 10–19 staff members
Revenue: Estimated between $1 million and $5 million annually
Contributions: 55–68% of income
Program Services: 32–45% of income
Executive Comp: 24–28% of expenses
Assets (historical): $98,711–$180,117 (2010–2013)

Contact Information

Mailing Address: PO Box 1305, Menlo Park, CA 94026
Phone: (650) 328-2242
Website: www.mpds.org

Quick Summary

Mid-Peninsula Dental Society (MPDS) At-a-Glance
Founded	1956
Service Area	Atherton, Los Altos, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Palo Alto
Members	274 dentists (2024)
Activities	CE seminars, study clubs, CPR, dental law education, community outreach
Structure	501(c)(6) nonprofit, bi-county organization
Community Impact	Fluoridation, free clinics, public education
Revenue	$1M–$5M; mostly contributions and program services
Contact	PO Box 1305, Menlo Park, CA 94026; (650) 328-2242; www.mpds.org