What Does ASDA Do? American Student Dental Association Explained

What Does ASDA Do? A Guide to the American Student Dental Association

Students researching careers in dentistry will eventually encounter the American Student Dental Association, better known as ASDA. But what does ASDA actually do?

ASDA is a national student-run organization focused on protecting and advancing the rights, interests and welfare of dental students. It connects students across dental schools while providing opportunities involving leadership, advocacy, professional development and organized dentistry.

According to ASDA, the organization has more than 23,000 student members across the United States and Puerto Rico.

What Is the Purpose of ASDA?

ASDA's mission extends beyond creating social or networking opportunities for dental students.

The organization represents dental-student interests and provides resources designed to help members develop professionally. Students can participate in leadership programs, advocacy initiatives, educational programming and events.

ASDA also gives dental students a way to collectively address issues affecting their education and future profession.

That advocacy role can include subjects such as dental education, student debt, licensure and other policies affecting future dentists.

Is ASDA Only for Dental Students?

No.

ASDA offers predental membership for individuals pursuing dentistry as a career. Eligibility can include undergraduate and high-school students as well as others considering dental school.

This makes ASDA potentially valuable for someone who hasn't yet applied to dental school.

A prospective dentist can use the organization's resources to better understand dental education and connect with the profession before beginning a DDS or DMD program.

ASDA and Careers in Dentistry

ASDA primarily serves people pursuing careers as dentists, but someone researching the organization may also want to investigate the broader dental workforce.

Dentists don't work alone.

Modern practices depend upon teams that can include dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, laboratory professionals and administrative personnel.

For someone interested in oral healthcare but not prepared to commit to the lengthy dentist educational pathway, dental assisting offers a substantially different entry point into the profession.

Students in New York City can explore dental assistant education through the New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants.

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