Supporting diversity in dentistry

Get to know these 4 organizations

Multiple dental associations exist to support dentists from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Learn more about four of these groups below and head to their websites for additional details on how to get involved.

 

National Dental Association
Founded: 1913
Mission statement: “The National Dental Association promotes oral health equity among people of color by harnessing the collective power of its members, advocating for the needs of and mentoring dental students of color, and raising the profile of the profession in our communities.”
Leadership: President Nicole Cheek, D.D.S.
Learn more: ndaonline.org

Hispanic Dental Association
Founded: 1990
Mission statement: “As the leading voice for Hispanic oral health, we provide service, education-research, advocacy and leadership for all health care professionals, to promote overall health of the Hispanic/Latinx and underrepresented communities.”
Leadership: President Martha J. Mutis, D.D.S.
Learn more: hdassoc.org

Society of American Indian Dentists
Founded: 1990
Mission statement: “The purpose of the Society of American Indian Dentists is to promote dental health in the American Indian community, encourage American Indian youth to pursue a career in the profession of dentistry, serve as a resource for assistance to American Indian students interested in the profession of dentistry, provide role-model leadership, promote American Indian heritage and traditional values, and promote and support the unique concerns of American Indian dentists.”
Leadership: President Cristin Haase, D.M.D. (Cheyenne River Sioux)
Learn more: thesaidonline.org

Asian American Dental Society
Founded: 2023
Mission statement: “Our mission is to gather as dental health care professionals of Asian descent within the tri-state area (New York/New Jersey/Connecticut) to empower and support the future dental professionals within our communities. We seek to provide a supportive space to share our passion for oral health, while advocating for a lifelong commitment to education, mentorship and collaboration.”
Leadership: founder Janet Youn, D.D.S.
Learn more: aadsofnyc.com