PDA is a voluntary organization comprising approximately 6,000 member dentists. It is a constituency of the American Dental Association (ADA), the largest and oldest national dental society in the world. PDA was organized in 1868 to serve the public by promoting the art and science of dentistry. It remains true to its original goals to serve the interests of the profession and the public.

PDA's Governance

PDA's structure consists of:

  • Board of Trustees - The managing body of PDA that establishes rules, regulations and policies to manage the association. These policies are subject to final approval at the next session of the House of Delegates.
  • Committees - Work on specific issues of importance to the association and are responsible for reporting on their progress and the completion of assignments to the Board of Trustees and House of Delegates.
  • Task forces - Formed at the discretion of the PDA president and the board. The purpose of a task force is to help PDA proactively address specific and immediate issues that are not being handled by another PDA committee or council.

Awards & Honors

PDA and its members have been honored with several awards recognizing their significant contributions and achievements to organized dentistry, the dental profession and improving the oral heath of the public. Each year, the Annual Awards Committee selects a recipient for the prestigious Distinguished Service Award, Recognition Award and Public Service Award to recognize those whose contributions of time and effort have been exceptionally significant. Read more information about these annual awards, including a list of past recipients. 

PDA also has won awards for numerous publications, such as the Pennsylvania Dental Journal, its National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) program and membership initiatives and retention. View a list of awards received by PDA. 

PDA Subsidiary

PDAIS is an insurance agency created to provide PDA members, their families and their staff with a variety of business and personal insurance programs.

Endorsed Vendors/Non-Dues Income Program

PDA is committed to increasing the value of membership while reducing reliance on dues income. To achieve this, PDA researches and secures high-quality products and services, such as credit card processing, examination gloves and electronic claims, to offer its members at competitive prices.

Contact PDA

Pennsylvania Dental Association
3501 N. Front Street
P.O. Box 3341
Harrisburg, PA 17105

Phone: (717) 234-5941
Fax: (717) 234-2186
Email: Use PDA's Staff Directory to email your question to the appropriate person.

Directions to PDA's Central Office

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