5 Top Dental Professional Associations
- American Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- National Dental Association
- International Association for Dental Research
- State Dental Associations
During dental school, professors and mentors provide students with the most current information in dentistry and encourage them to network. These tasks are just as important for maintaining good dentistry practice. The easiest way to remain current in dentistry and have meaningful interactions with others in the field is to join and participate in professional organizations. These five professional organizations provide dentists with lifeline learning and networking opportunities.
1. American Dental Association
The American Dental Association (ADA) is the largest professional association for dentists in the United States. It is therefore the best place to look for a wide variety of information and connect with a diverse group of fellow dentists. The ADA produces some of the most cutting edge research in the field. It offers opportunities to participate in dental health advocacy. It provides continuing education opportunities that range from online forums to large conferences in exciting locations. The ADA 2018 Annual Meeting will take place in Honolulu on Oahu, Hawaii from October 18th to 22nd.
2. Academy of General Dentistry
The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is perfect for those dentists who loved dental school. It focuses on providing a plethora of continuing education opportunities. They offer webinars, annual nationwide scientific sessions, local specialized gatherings, and self-paced instruction courses. AGD is one of the best ways to gain hands-on learning experience with the latest dental knowledge in order to maintain the most up-to-date practice possible. For those who missed registering for the 2018 event, the 2019 Premier Meeting for General Dentistry will take place from July 18th to 20th at the Mohegan Sun Casino and Resort in Connecticut.
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3. National Dental Association
The National Dental Association (NDA) was founded to provide continuing education and networking opportunities for the nation’s minority dentists. During and after dental school, minority members of the dental community encounter unique challenges. The NDA assists these individuals in completing their educations and succeeding in their careers. They also specialize in gaining and disseminating information about minority dental health issues and providing minorities with access to dental health services. The 2018 NDA Convention will take place from July 11th to 15th in Orlando, Florida.
4. International Association for Dental Research
It is important to stay connected to the global development of dentistry. The International Association for Dental Research brings together the greatest minds of the dental field from across the globe. Membership provides access to publication and awards, a wealth of current information, and worldwide network opportunities. The 2018 General Session & Exhibition is scheduled for July 28th to 25th in London England, and the 2019 event will take place from June 19th to 22nd in Vancouver British Columbia, Canada.
5. State Dental Associations
It is equally important to remain current on one’s state and local dental policies and practices. The ADA offers a Guide to State and Local Dental Associations. This is a great opportunity to participate in events more frequently and collaborate with colleagues closer to home who share similar clientele and practice under the same laws and policies.
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Joining professional organizations for dentists, such as these five, is the key to lasting career enjoyment and success. They provide opportunities for both networking and learning. Membership includes professional and financial discounts, as well as multiple excuses to travel.
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