My Experience at CDA Presents 2025
The California Dental Association (CDA) is a chapter of the American Dental Association and each year hosts a major conference that brings together the heart of the dental profession. The event features vendors supplying everything from cutting-edge technology to everyday essentials, and offers continuing education (CE) courses required for dental license renewal. These CE sessions are led by dynamic presenters and are on par with some of the best professional education available anywhere.
This year, I had the honor of serving as a host for three outstanding dental speakers—each delivering high-level continuing education sessions to packed rooms of engaged collegues. In this blog post, I’ll share my most memorable moments from CDA Presents 2025, what I learned from the conference, and my personal reflections on this unforgettable experience.
Memorable Moments From the Conference
This year’s CDA Presents conference was filled with moments I’ll never forget. One of the first surprises came when I walked into the convention center and saw my photo prominently displayed! It was a surreal and humbling experience—being recognized in that way, in a space filled with my peers and mentors, meant more than I can put into words. As a dentist who has dedicated years to this profession, it was an emotional reminder of how far I’ve come and how deeply connected I am to this community.
Another highlight was serving as a speaker host. I had the opportunity to introduce and support three incredibly talented dental professionals who delivered continuing education courses throughout the weekend. These presenters weren’t just informative—they were also deeply engaging, and truly inspiring. Being up close and personal with them gave me a profound appreciation for the level of excellence our field continually strives for.
I also spent a lot of time exploring the exhibit hall, meeting with vendors and exhibitors from across the dental industry. It was energizing to see the innovation on display—new products, technologies, and tools that are shaping the future of dental care. Many of these vendors were more than willing to share insights, demos, and stories about how their work contributes to better patient outcomes.
One of the most personal and touching moments was when my sister (photographed above), who lives in Southern California, came to visit the convention! She got to see the environment I work in, meet some of my colleagues, and experience a bit of what dentistry means to me beyond the office. It gave her a glimpse into my world, and having her there made the weekend feel even more special.
Each of these moments—big and small—reminded me why I love being part of this profession and why events like CDA Presents are so important.
What I Learned at CDA 2025
What I’ve always appreciated about the California Dental Association is its remarkable ability to bring together so many brilliant minds in one place. Being surrounded by such a diverse, knowledgeable group of peers—each bringing their own experiences and expertise—makes it nearly impossible not to learn something new.
The conference itself was packed with exhibitors showcasing the latest tools, technologies, and advancements shaping the future of dentistry. From new product innovations to hands-on demonstrations, there was something valuable at every booth. But more than the products, what stood out most was the community’s unwavering commitment to excellence in education, progressive thinking, and in the way we show up for one another as colleagues.
This event wasn’t just about acquiring CE credits or seeing new gadgets; it was about exchanging ideas, building professional relationships, and being reminded of the shared purpose that drives us all: delivering the best possible care to our patients. CDA Presents 2025 reinforced that oral healthcare is constantly evolving—and that we excel further when we grow together.
A Great Experience for My Office Staff
Bringing my staff along to CDA Presents 2025 was one of the best decisions I made this year. As any dentist knows, our team is the backbone of everything we do—without their dedication, compassion, and hard work, we couldn’t serve our patients with the level of care we strive for every day.
We snapped the above photo on the first day of the conference right in front of the beautiful CDA signage!
Attending the conference gave them a chance to step outside the daily routine of the office and see the bigger picture of the dental industry. From walking the exhibit hall and learning about new technologies to sitting in on educational sessions, they gained exposure to parts of dentistry they don’t always get to experience firsthand. It was not only a learning opportunity, but a meaningful team-building experience—and I hope it felt like a well-deserved break, too. Watching them engage, ask questions, and connect with others in the field reminded me how important it is to invest in your team both professionally and personally.
Why Dentists Should Attend the Conference
Whether or not you're a dentist practicing in California, I highly recommend attending the CDA Presents annual conference. It’s an incredible opportunity for the entire dental team—dentists, hygienists, assistants, and office staff—to step outside the walls of the practice and see what’s happening across the broader landscape of dentistry. Conferences like this one offer a unique environment to stay informed about industry trends, explore new products and technologies, earn continuing education credits, and connect with fellow collegues. It’s not just about clinical growth; it’s about resparking your passion for the profession and returning to the office with fresh ideas, deeper insight, and renewed motivation.
Key Takeaways from CDA Presents 2025
CDA Presents 2025 was more than just a conference. It reminded me of why I chose this profession and why I continue to invest in it every day. From being featured on the event signage and serving as a speaker host, to reconnecting with colleagues and sharing the experience with my team and family, this year’s event was filled with moments that inspired growth, reflection, and gratitude.
What stood out most was the power of community. The CDA continues to create an environment where innovation, education, and collaboration thrive. I left feeling more connected to oral healthcare, enthused by what I learned, and proud to be part of a field that’s constantly evolving to serve others better. Whether you’re a seasoned dentist or new to the industry, experiences like this are essential for staying engaged, informed, and inspired. See you next year, CDA Presents!