Tripartite Membership

ADA

MEMBERS

SUPPORTED BY THREE UNIFIED ORGANIZATIONS

DISTRICT FDA

THE MISSION OF THE ADA, THE FDA AND ITS DISTRICT DENTAL ASSOCIATIONS is to “help dentists succeed and support the advancement of the health of the public.” We accomplish this by delivering programs, services and advocacy to maximize value and service at every level.

When you join organized dentistry, you become a member of three remarkable organizations — the American Dental Association (ADA), the Florida Dental Association (FDA) and your district dental association — often referred to as the “tripartite.” The ADA represents dentists throughout the country.

Founded in 1884 by 12 dentists, the FDA is a professional membership organization with more than 8,000 members. Florida is its own district — the 17th Trustee District — in the ADA governing structure. The FDA also has its own representatives on the ADA Board of Trustees, councils and committees.

Florida has six district dental associations that represent the interests and activities of dentists in those areas. Each district association elects its own officers and conducts local meetings. These associations are comprised of affiliate (local) societies that have separate membership policies and programs, but typically work in conjunction with their district dental associations.

See page 23 for more information about your district.