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The California Dental Association (CDA) is a nonprofit professional organization representing organized dentistry across the state. Founded in 1870, CDA is the largest constituent of the American Dental Association (ADA), representing nearly 27,000 dentists through 32 local dental societies in California. The CDA supports members through continuing education, advocacy, and essential practice resources, contributing to the advancement of dentistry throughout the state.
Mission: To support members in their practice and service to the public through innovation in education, advocacy, and related programs.
Vision: To be the recognized leader for excellence in member services and advocacy, promoting oral health and the profession of dentistry.
Membership in CDA is open to California dentists, dental students, dental hygienists, assistants, lab technicians, and other dental professionals. Dentists practicing or residing outside California are also eligible to join. CDA membership includes access to the local dental society, CDA, and the ADA, providing a three-tiered support system at the local, state, and national levels.
Since 2025, CDA membership renews based on an anniversary date system—members enjoy a full 12-month membership from the date of joining or last renewal.
CDA offers a robust range of benefits to members, including:
The CDA is a leader in public health and dental legislation. It actively supports programs that enhance oral health across California, including school-based fluoride varnish programs and efforts to prevent oral diseases such as oropharyngeal cancer. The association works with state lawmakers to promote legislation that improves both the dental profession and the well-being of the public.
Founded in 2001, the CDA Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the association. Its mission is to improve oral and overall health by reducing disparities and increasing access to care through several community programs:
The CDA is governed by member-elected leaders who help guide the future of the organization. Its headquarters are located in Sacramento, California. As of 2025, the association is led by President Dr. Max Martinez.
One of the CDA’s signature events is the annual CDA Presents The Art and Science of Dentistry. This event attracts thousands of dental professionals to engage in high-level CE, hands-on workshops, and lectures led by national experts. The conference is an essential part of California’s dental CE ecosystem and a valuable opportunity for networking and professional development.
See how this connects to California dental CE requirements.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1870 |
| Type | Nonprofit, professional association |
| Members | ~27,000 dentists |
| Headquarters | Sacramento, California |
| President (2025) | Max Martinez, DDS |
| Major Programs | Advocacy, CE, CDA Foundation, CDA Cares |
| Key Event | CDA Presents The Art and Science of Dentistry |
| Official Journal | Journal of the California Dental Association |
| Website | cda.org |
When dentists join CDA, they are also members of one of California’s 32 local dental societies. These societies offer localized support, events, and networking tailored to each community. Local dental societies in California:
Each local society hosts its own meetings, CE events, and peer support opportunities, further enriching the value of CDA membership across the state.
Learn more about how CDA supports dental CE requirements in California and explore the local society that serves your region.
Learn More About the American Dental Association