During the formative years of MDS's it was impossible for Black dentists to join the Baltimore Dental Society. Today, however, MDS members hold memberships in both organizations.

Monthly meetings were held in the office or homes of members. at the ese meetings scholarly papers, by members, were presented to the group. Demonstrations of crown and bridgework, the use of X-ray in difficult extractions as well as the use of gas in extractions were conducted. New techniques in dentistry were discussed by University of Maryland Dental School faculty on numerous occasions.

In 1928, permission was requested from the Board of Management of Provident Hospital to hold clinics at their establishments . Subsequently, dental clinics were established in various schools throughout the city. Professional care and advice was given to Black children at these clinics.

It is significant to note that MDS, through the influence of Dr. A. A. Smith, appropriated funds for trips to Annapolis, Md. A Bill opposing advertising by dentist was passed in 1937 with the support of MDS. Unethical dentists were dropped from the MDS Roster. As a community service, MDS submitted a list of unethical practitioners in THE AFRO AMERICAN NEWSPAPER, and sent the list to the Maryland Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical Associations. To augment this activities, MDS also published a directory of recognized dentists.

MDS members were affiliated with the national Medical Association (NMA). MDS with assistance from the several Washington dentists prepared programs for the dental segment of NMA. Excellent exhibits in the field of dentistry were displayed at NMA as well as other conventions.

When the National Dental Association was organized in 1933 from the Tri-State Dental Association, members of the Maryland Dental Society were among its founders and organizers. The goals of reducing human suffering from dental disease, the education of the population regarding prevention of the ravages of dental disease and the constant improvement and upgrading of the professional competence of its members are as valid to day as they were when the National Dental Association was organized.

Based upon its professional activities, expert advice and patient service, this group has gained to confidence and respect of all segments of the Maryland's community. These are the major reasons for the continued growth of MDS throughout the years.

In an effort to make the MDS a more viable community service organization, it recently received confirmation of its 501(c)3 non profit status as part of the National Dental Association's Group Exemption. Any organization, foundation or individual will now be able to make contributions to the Maryland Dental Society for tax deductible purposes. The tax id number is available to the general public to record their contributions. You may find it below in the footer of the page.