Delta Dental Legal Action FAQ
CDA pursued litigation to require Delta Dental to honor its contractual obligations inherent in the Participating Dentist Agreement between Delta and its participating providers. CDA also challenged whether the Delta Dental board of directors violated its legal responsibilities, referred to as fiduciary duties.
Read the court’s final opinion on the case.
Court of Appeal, First Appellate District Opinion
Read other legal documents related to the case:
In May 2024, the Superior Court ruled in favor of Delta Dental and the individual directors and officers, resulting in the case being dismissed. The Court ruled that the directors do not owe fiduciary duties to dentists who participate in the Delta network and that Delta has unfettered discretion to set reimbursement rates. CDA’s leaders, legal team and outside counsel evaluated the next steps, and CDA filed a Notice of Appeal in early July 2024, then filed an Appellants’ Reply Brief in February 2025. In late September 2025, the court of appeals ruled to uphold the prior ruling in favor of Delta Dental, resulting in the case coming to an end.
While it’s unfortunate that the case reached this stage, CDA’s pursuit of meaningful reform will not be stopped.
CDA is fighting for reform on multiple fronts, including results-driven legislative advocacy and a new Board-appointed Future of Dentistry workgroup. Keep connected to the latest news and updates through emails from CDA, the Dental Plan Action Center, our newsroom and our social channels. You can also find and share current reform efforts at fixourdentalinsurance.com.
Check that you’re opted in to receive CDA emails and that you contact information is up to date. And be sure to opt in to receive text message alerts for members, including dental reform updates.