MenuClose Menu

Early Career Dentists

Begin your dental career with CDA on your side.

Get more support as you’re starting out in practice through membership in organized dentistry. Access to resources for the business side of practice, one-on-one support from specialized experts and new ways to learn, lead and connect with your dental community.

When you join CDA as a dental school graduate, you also become a member of the ADA and your local dental society – with access to benefits for every stage of your dentistry. Discover support, savings and solutions to better navigate your new profession and the unique needs of California dentists.

Exclusive Benefits Just for You

Career Center

Enhance your search with our dentistry-focused Career Center. Connect with new opportunities faster and get a free resume review, alerts on relevant job listings, interview tips and more.

Expert Support

Get answers to your questions by calling or emailing CDA’s specialized analysts. And tap into a full library of resources and tools to guide decision-making, including associateship resources.

Exclusive Deals

Access generous discounts, including malpractice coverage through TDIC’s New Dentist Programs, dental supplies from TDSC.com and savings through CDA’s Endorsed Services.

Vibrant Connections

Join the conversation on Instagramand Facebook, as well as in-person events across the state, Stay ahead of emerging issues in CDA’s Newsroom and check out new oral health research in the Journal.

Support your success transitioning into practice

CDA News

Headshot of student spotlight recipient
June 5, 2026
‘Find your why and keep it close’: Western U student’s advice on staying encouraged in dental school

Each month, CDA highlights a student from one of California’s seven dental schools. Get to know Michalina Fili of Western University’s class of 2029.

Headshot of student, Gabriela Salazar and school name.
May 1, 2026
‘No one had ever been that nice to them’: WesternU student recalls special moment with a patient

Student Spotlight graphic with student picture, name and school.
April 7, 2026
UCSF student shares plans for pediatric dentistry career, plus advice for incoming students

Each month, CDA highlights a student from one of California’s seven dental schools. Get to know Erica Julian of UCSF School of Dentistry’s class of 2029.

CDA Career Center

Not yet a CDA member?

Explore the benefits and join today for the best membership value. Apply online or call 800.232.7645 to speak to a member representative.

*First-year TDIC Professional Liability coverage rates are $50 in California. Rates depicted are for new and never practiced dentists, licensed within the last twelve months and are valid for $1M/$3M coverage amounts. Rates increase until a mature policy is reached.

Sign up for text updates from CDA