The Alliance of the Pennsylvania Dental Association ( APDA ) was organized in 1950 , when it was initially created as the Women ’ s Auxiliary .
Many local societies had auxiliaries , some of which had been created back in the 1930s . The statewide auxiliary “ was formed as a federation of the local auxiliaries ‘ to advise component auxiliaries in all matters of organization , function and policy , and to provide necessary information for carrying on the dental health education program ,” according to History of Dentistry in Pennsylvania .
Over the past 68 years the members of the APDA , spouses of member dentists , have taken a valuable leadership role in dental health education , legislative initiatives , children ’ s dental health , Senior Smiles programs and many other projects . Alliance members have been instrumental in so many of PDA ’ s public relations efforts as well as the vital work of lobbying at the Capitol during Day on the Hill visits . Their dedication has also shined through in their work for Give Kids A Smile Day and smokeless tobacco programs .
The members of the APDA have truly been partners in all of the success PDA has enjoyed through the years .
MARCH / APRIL 2018 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 53