LADS Foundation

Our Mission

The Los Angeles Dental Society Foundation's mission is to provide public benefit programs that promote oral health and education within the Los Angeles community supporting initiatives such as scholarships for dental students, grants to dental community clinics, and in-kind donations to oral health organizations.

Empowering Smiles

The Foundation's community-driven outreach brings essential dental care directly to neighborhoods in need. Through free screening and education events, we help families understand and act on the steps to maintain healthy mouths and bright smiles.

• Mobile Screening Clinics
  Regular pop-up clinics in under-served areas provide dental exams, fluoride treatments, and oral hygiene instruction to hundreds of children and adults each year.
  
  
• School Outreach Programs
  Interactive assemblies and classroom visits teach elementary and middle school students about brushing, flossing, nutrition, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
  
  
• Public Health Workshops
  Partnering with local nonprofits, we host workshops for parents and caregivers on topics like cavity prevention, oral cancer awareness, and managing dental anxiety.

Enriching Futures

Education is at the heart of our work, supporting the next generation of dental professionals through targeted scholarships and mentorship.

• USC Scholarship Partnership
  In collaboration with the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC, the LADS Foundation awards an annual scholarships to promising dental students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to serving Los Angeles communities.
  
  
• Mentorship & Career Development
  New dentists and students are paired with experienced LADS members for one-on-one mentorship, clinical shadowing opportunities, and guidance on navigating the early years of practice.
  

Grants to Community Clinics

We believe everyone deserves access to quality dental care. Our grant program supports nonprofit and low-cost dental clinics across Los Angeles County:

• Equipment & Supplies Funding
  Grants help clinics purchase vital equipment, from digital X-ray units to sterilization tools, and stock essential materials like sealants and disposables.
  
  
• Program Support
  We fund community-based initiatives such as Let Your Kids Smile Day and community oral health education campaigns.

In-Kind Donations

The LADS Foundation leverages the generosity of our members and partners to provide in-kind support where it's most needed :

• Toothbrush & Oral Care Drives
  Annual collection campaigns gather thousands of toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, floss, and mouthwash for distribution through shelters, school clinics, and food banks.
  
  
• Professional Services
  Volunteer dentists, hygienists, and staff donate their time and expertise to staff our outreach clinics, mentor students, and deliver workshops, amplifying our impact.

Get Involved

Whether you are interested in volunteering at a screening event, mentoring a scholarship recipient, or contributing to our grant fund, there are many ways to join the LADS Foundation's work: