Maryland State Dental Association

Updated August 2026

Contact Maryland State Dental Association

Quick Answer

The Maryland State Dental Association is the official professional organization representing dental health providers across Maryland. The association provides continuing education, legislative advocacy, practice support for members, and public dental health resources for providers and residents across Maryland.

The Maryland State Dental Association (MSDA) is the statewide professional association for Maryland dentists and part of the American Dental Association's tripartite membership structure — dues cover membership at the national (ADA), state (MSDA), and local component level simultaneously. Maryland has 12 component dental societies plus the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, each with its own bylaws, officers, and committees.

Continuing education

MSDA is an ADA CERP (Continuing Education Recognition Program) provider, meaning its courses meet national quality standards for dental CE. MSDA also hosts the annual Chesapeake Dental Conference and dental assistant training courses.

Dispute resolution

MSDA operates a confidential Peer Review program staffed by calibrated volunteer dentists to resolve disputes over dental care and treatment as an alternative to malpractice litigation or a Board complaint. Cases may be brought by the public or referred by the Board; being named in a peer review does not appear on a dentist's public record. Call (410) 964-2880 or email info@msda.com for details.

Member services

  • MSDA Career Center (jobs.msda.com) — connects dental professionals with practice opportunities across Maryland.
  • Legislative/MARPAC advocacy — tracks state legislation and regulations affecting Maryland dentistry.
  • MSDA Foundation (msdaf.org) — the association's charitable arm.
  • Dentist Well-Being Committee — peer-support resources for licensees.

MSDA is headquartered at 8901 Herrmann Drive, Suite A, Columbia, MD 21045. More information is available at msda.com.

Compare Other Associations

These share Maryland's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing membership across nearby states.

Helpful Guides