From the Spring 2025 Journal of the Colorado Dental Association
By Kevin Patterson, D.D.S., M.D., CDA President
It’s hard to believe that my 36-month journey with the CDA Executive Committee is coming to a close. Time seems to move faster with each passing year, making it feel even more challenging to accomplish all we set out to achieve.
My involvement in organized dentistry began roughly 12 years ago, first as a board member, then progressing through the MDDS Executive Committee before joining the CDA. While hectic at times, these last 12 years have been the most rewarding period of my dental career. Working alongside the dedicated teams at CDA and MDDS — as well as the many volunteer dentists who give their time and expertise — gives me hope that organized dentistry will continue to thrive. But I also recognize that it’s not always that simple.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a lasting impact on so many aspects of our lives and organized dentistry has not been immune. The ADA, CDA and component societies are grappling with increasing apathy toward membership. While the pandemic played a role in this shift, the reality is that all levels of the tripartite system have contributed to this challenge over time. Fortunately, those of you reading this are the bright spot. You continue to support organized dentistry as we refocus on the importance of membership — and for that, I thank you.
Gone are the days when joining the ADA and CDA was an automatic decision for new dentists. The most commonly cited barrier is no surprise: the cost of membership. But cost alone isn’t the issue. We all invest in things we perceive as valuable; this is exactly where the ADA and CDA are focusing their efforts.
A quick look at the CDA website reveals an extensive list of membership benefits: practice management support, insurance solutions, networking opportunities, advocacy, industry news and updates, resources for new dentists, group purchasing options, retirement solutions, third-party contract analysis, endorsed products, Find-a-Dentist listings and tax-deductible dues.
Despite this impressive list, the most valuable benefit isn’t explicitly stated: the CDA is focused on listening to members’ needs and concerns. We represent our members; we help our members thrive. Of course, I’m preaching to the choir — you already see the value in CDA/ADA membership. But I encourage you to use this information when speaking with non-member colleagues. The strength of the CDA and ADA comes from strength in numbers.
Advocacy is often cited as a key benefit of membership, but its effectiveness is directly tied to the number of dentists who stand behind these organizations. Dentistry is at risk of following medicine’s trajectory, where membership in the American Medical Association has dwindled to roughly 20%. The ability to advocate for the profession —and for the patients we serve — depends on a strong, unified voice. And while CDA and ADA efforts benefit all dentists, member or not, the reality is that a well-supported organization has greater influence. This should be a wake-up call to non-members: even if you’re not directly involved, the CDA and ADA are working on your behalf. Imagine how much stronger our advocacy could be with broader participation.
Enough of my soapbox speech, but I will leave you with this: years ago, I realized that my voice — while loud at times — becomes significantly more powerful as part of a collective. I hope you’ll take this message and use it to fuel conversations about the importance of CDA/ADA membership.
Thank you for choosing to be a part of the CDA.
Wishing you all the best,
Kevin
