CDA is a professional association that supports its member dentists through every stage of practice, empowering them to excel through dedicated advocacy, education, expert guidance, specialized resources and dentist-focused insurance options.

The California Dental Board protects and promotes the health and safety of patients in our state. They achieve this through:

• Issuing and renewing licenses for dentists, registered dental assistants (RDAs), and registered dental assistants in extended functions (RDAEFs) throughout the state.
• Approving dental educational programs and courses required for practice, licensure and continuing education.
• Implementing and enforcing the Dental Practice Act, which authorizes the Board to investigate complaints and take disciplinary action against licensees.
• Similarly, the Dental Hygiene Board oversees these functions for registered dental hygienists (RDHs).

CDA collaborates with regulatory boards like the Dental Board and Dental Hygiene Boards of California while serving different roles. While regulatory boards protect the public by licensing dental professionals, overseeing required education and enforcing practice acts, CDA supports the profession through advocacy, C.E. offerings and guidance. CDA works together with these regulatory boards by:

• Sharing input on legislation and regulations.
• Providing board-approved C.E. course offerings.
• Educating members on legal and regulatory compliance.
• Promoting consistent professional and ethical standards.

You should contact CDA if you need assistance with:

• Questions about joining, renewing your membership, accessing your account or using your benefits.
• Questions about dentistry-focused education programs, events and resources, or if you require support with registration or accessing transcripts.
• One-on-one guidance from our specialized analysts on issues related to practice management, regulatory compliance, dental plans, employment practices and staffing or risk management.
• Questions about CDA’s advocacy work.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage options specifically designed for dentists.

• Learn more about member benefits, join or renew your membership.
• Explore CDA’s diverse learning options.
• Find online resources to support your practice or request assistance from our dedicated team of analysts.
• Stay informed about CDA’s advocacy initiatives and find out how you can get involved.
• Request an interview or sign up to join our media list.
• Learn more about TDIC’s comprehensive coverage options and policyholder benefits.
• Connect with our team of specialists to get answers to your other questions.

Yes. CDA provides several resources for patients and members of the public.

• Find a CDA member dentist near you.
• Locate low-cost dental care in your area.
• Learn more about some of the most common issues affecting dental patients or read through our community oral health resources.
• Find out more about fluoride and community water fluoridation.
• Access information about the kindergarten oral health requirement.

You should contact the California Dental Board if you need assistance with:

• Applying for or renewing your professional license
• Verifying licensure status
• Reporting unsafe practice or unprofessional conduct by a dentist, registered dental assistant or registered dental assistant in extended functions

No. CDA does not have any authority over the licensing of dental professionals or the investigations or disciplinary actions of such professionals under the Dental Practice Act. These matters fall under the jurisdiction of the California Dental Board.