About The SFDS

Mission: To support dental professionals throughout their careers and improve the oral health of our community. 

Vision: To be the voice of dentistry and advocate for the oral health of the community.

Core Values: Inclusion, Integrity, Influence, Professionalism, Service 

In 1869, a small group of dentists in San Francisco founded the San Francisco Dental Society.  It was the first component of what came to be the California Dental Association. The Society, founded as a professional membership organization, is the united voice of dentistry and oral healthcare in the community. Through its many committees, programs and activities, the Society meets the goals for which it was originally established.

The San Francisco Dental Society has grown into a successful dental society with 1100 plus members and forms the local component of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. The society represents approximately 75% of all the licensed dentists in the City and County of San Francisco and collectively exemplifies the SFDS mission of promoting the oral health of the community and is the recognized resource for dental professionals in the City and County of San Francisco.  The San Francisco Dental Society supports only the highest ethical practice of dentistry and works to improve the standard of dental care for the public.

Success Plan 2023-2027

Strategic Goal 1: Membership: Foster a growing, engaged, and informed member community

• Increase total membership through acquisition and reinstatement in key growth segments (Recruitment)
• Increase member retention and engagement (Retention)

Strategic Goal 2: Advocacy: Engage in advocacy efforts that support the mission of the SFDS

• Actively identify, build, and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders to influence policy favorable to dentistry
• Develop strategic advocacy efforts and effectively communicate the value to members

Strategic Goal 3: Community: Promote community oral health and volunteer opportunities for members

• Continue to support programs that showcase SFDS commitment to the oral health of the public
• Increase volunteer engagement in SFDS supported activities

Strategic Goal 4: Organization:  Ensure a healthy, reputable, and sustainable organization

• Achieve and maintain adequate financial, staff, and leadership capacity to execute the goals associated with the SFDS Strategic Plan
• Build brand awareness and identity of the society in the San Francisco area