San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS)

Supporting Dental Professionals and Advancing Oral Health Since 1887

Overview

The San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS) is the largest professional dental organization serving San Diego and Imperial counties. Founded in 1887, SDCDS is a local component of the California Dental Association (CDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA). The society supports member dentists and promotes oral health across the region.

Mission and Purpose

Mission: To be the recognized source of dental information, serve members’ professional needs, and help them better serve the community.

Purpose: Advocate for the oral health of all residents, ensure accessible, high-quality care, and provide the tools and resources member dentists need to thrive.

Membership

With nearly 2,000 members—more than 70% of dentists in the region—SDCDS membership is both extensive and inclusive. Membership automatically includes enrollment in the CDA and ADA, offering support and services across all levels of the profession.

Eligibility: Voluntary for all licensed dentists practicing in San Diego or Imperial County.

Member Benefits

Practice management and professional support
Continuing education (CE) through conferences and online courses – see CA Dental CE Requirements
Career center and job board
Classifieds for dental equipment and practice sales
Networking events, leadership programs, and symposia
Malpractice insurance and risk management guidance
Peer review and ethics committee support
Legislative advocacy at local, state, and national levels
Discounted vendor programs and VIP savings

Community Outreach and Charitable Activities

SDCDS advances dental health access through its 501(c)(3) foundation, the San Diego County Dental Foundation (SDCDF), established in 1992.

John Geis, DDS Dental Clinic: Free dental care for veterans affected by homelessness and addiction
St. Leo’s Clinic: Emergency treatment for patients with significant barriers to care
Educational Outreach: School programs and community education partnerships

Peer Review and Ethics

SDCDS maintains a robust peer review process for handling quality of care concerns and a dedicated ethics committee for resolving non-clinical complaints involving member dentists or staff. All complaints must be initiated through the CDA.

Events and Continuing Education

San Diego Dental CE Conference: Flagship annual event offering CE credits and professional networking
Practice Management Symposium: Business seminars covering HR, marketing, and practice transitions

Contact Information

Address: 1275 W Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110

Phone: (619) 275-7188

Email: admin@sdcds.org

Website: www.sdcds.org

Quick Summary

San Diego County Dental Society At-a-Glance
Founded	1887
Members	~2,000 (70% of area dentists)
Mission	Support members, promote oral health, serve the community
Key Services	CE, advocacy, peer review, ethics, classifieds, career center
Community Outreach	Clinics, veteran care, public education, school programs
Contact	1275 W Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110; (619) 275-7188; www.sdcds.org