Western Los Angeles Dental Society (WLADS)

Overview and Mission

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.

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

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

Learn More About the California Dental Association