California Dental Association

Are you a California dentist who wants to know more about the state’s leading professional dental association? Are you looking for information about good oral health? Either way, you’ve come to the right place. The California Dental Association is the largest statewide dental association in the country, and our nearly 24,000 members represent almost 70 percent of dentists practicing in the state. The CDA organization is comprised of CDA, the CDA Foundation, The Dentists Insurance Company, and TDIC Insurance Solutions.

Founded in 1870, we are part of a membership structure that includes 32 local dental societies and the American Dental Association. In fact, we are proud to say we represent the single largest membership in the American Dental Association. One out of seven ADA members is also a member of CDA. 

ABOUT CDA


  • CDA Code of Ethics

  • Missions, Visions & Core Values

  • Strategic Plan

  • Organization Chart

  • Component Dental Societies

  • American Dental Association

  • Events Calendar

  • Leadership

CAREERS IN ORAL HEALTH

As a dentist or oral health professional, you'll enjoy an exciting and rewarding career that offers a lifetime of job satisfaction. You'll work in a technology-driven environment, earn a good income and learn on the job every day. Plus, you'll be helping people keep their smiles bright and healthy. 

  • Become a Dental Professional
  • Dental Students & New Graduates
  • Licensing & Exams
  • Start a Dental Hygiene Program


The CDA is your resource for lifelong learning. Join your colleagues and stay informed with professional conferences, Scientific Sessions, seminars, classes and programs. You’ll get the information and education you need to practice more confidently and productively. And you’ll always be up-to-date about the latest technical and scientific advances. This is also the place for companies to purchase exhibitor space at Scientific Sessions. But that’s not all. We can help you meet licensing and continuing education requirements, and because we know how busy you are, we’ve recently added an array of new online offerings you’ll want to check out. We think you’ll find education and learning is easier than ever.

  • Scientific Sessions - Annual Meetings
  • Education

Looking for a new job, a practice to buy or an office to rent? Want to fill an opening on your office staff or oral health team? No matter your need, CDA can help you.

  • Employment

MEMBER BENEFITS AND RESOURCES

CDA Membership for Dentists
What do you get from membership in the CDA? Part of the answer depends on how you define your professional success. Does it mean you’re financially secure? Using the latest technology? Educating your patients? Getting help with third-party payer issues? Because your experiences are unique, we offer benefits and resources for every stage of your career. From graduation to retirement, you’ll find support when you need it – without being inundated when you don’t. We know you’re busy growing your practice and career and have better things to do than read complicated manuals or sift through a multitude of materials. This concept of membership your way is how we’re moving forward, together.

Based on responses from dentists like you, CDA understands there are four distinct career stages you'll experience in a lifetime - beginning a career, starting a practice, enriching your career and preparing for retirement - with specific needs at each stage. Together with our organizations, we developed a new way for you to make the most of your membership.

Learn more about...

  • CDA Memberships
  • Patient & Community Resources
  • Publications