Detailed Introduction
The Shenandoah Valley Dental Association (SVDA) is a distinguished professional organization dedicated to serving the dental community and the public in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia. Founded in 1914, the SVDA operates as a vital local component of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA) and, by extension, the American Dental Association (ADA), forming a "tripartite" system of membership benefits. This structure ensures that members receive support and resources at local, state, and national levels.
The SVDA's core mission is to represent and serve its members and the broader public by fostering quality oral health care. This is achieved through several key initiatives:
Continuing Education: The association provides opportunities for ongoing professional development, ensuring that its members stay abreast of the latest advancements in dental knowledge and techniques. This includes hosting and promoting various events and conferences.
Open Communication: The SVDA promotes harmonious understanding, cooperation, and good fellowship among its members, facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices within the dental profession.
Legislation and Advocacy: It actively advocates for its members and the public, striving to elevate the standard of dentistry and promote ethical practices. This includes involvement in legislative efforts related to dental care.
The SVDA's membership comprises over 260 general and specialty dentists, covering a wide range of dental disciplines such as general dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and orthodontics. The geographic area it serves is extensive, encompassing the counties of Albemarle, Augusta, Clarke, Frederick, Highland, Nelson, Page, Rockbridge, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren.
Beyond its direct member services, the SVDA also plays a role in connecting the public with dental resources, including information on low-cost dental services available in the Shenandoah Valley region. As Component VII of the Virginia Dental Association, the SVDA is an integral part of a larger network that works to shape the future of dentistry in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
