Detailed Introduction
The Indianapolis District Dental Society (IDDS) is a well-established professional organization serving dentists in the central Indiana region, encompassing eight counties: Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, Johnson, Shelby, and Tipton. Founded in 1878, IDDS has a long-standing tradition of integrity and commitment to advancing the dental profession and public oral health.
As a local component society of both the Indiana Dental Association (IDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA), IDDS acts as a vital link, providing its more than 900 members—who represent general dentistry and the eight ADA-recognized specialties—with a powerful network of resources and support.
The primary mission of IDDS revolves around enhancing oral health education and the dental welfare of the public, while promoting professionalism and quality within the field of dentistry. To achieve this, IDDS offers a comprehensive range of services and benefits to its members, including:
Continuing Education: IDDS is dedicated to facilitating ongoing professional development through access to quality continuing education content. This ensures members stay current with the latest dental topics, trends, clinical advancements, and regulatory updates.
Networking and Community: The society fosters a supportive and collaborative environment by organizing various events throughout the year, allowing members to connect with peers, share insights, and build lasting professional relationships. These events include general membership meetings, social gatherings, and specific events for new dentists.
Legislative Advocacy: IDDS actively monitors and engages with legislative and regulatory issues at local, state, and federal levels that impact dental practices and the oral health of Hoosiers. They provide a voice for dental professionals, advocating for their interests and needs.
Practice Resources: Members can access resources to support their practice, such as assistance with finding associates, discounts on materials and credit card processing, and guidance on business operations.
Peer Review Program: In instances of patient or practice disputes, IDDS offers a peer-review board to facilitate fair resolutions, helping to mediate between patients and dental practices.
Community Engagement: Through its IDDS Foundation, the organization is committed to enhancing community oral health through education, research, and increasing access to care. The Foundation hosts fundraising events like an annual golf outing and biannual wine-tasting to support philanthropic grants and scholarships for students studying dentistry, dental hygiene, dental assisting, and dental technology.
IDDS strives to be a central resource and referral service for both the dental community and the general public in central Indiana, upholding high standards of dental care and fostering a strong, informed professional community.
