American Association of Dental Speakers
AADS Membership
Join the professional home for dental speakers at every stage of your career.
Why Join
Built for Dental Speakers
The American Association of Dental Speakers is the only professional organization dedicated exclusively to dental speaking and education. Whether you are just beginning to speak or are a seasoned platform presenter, AADS membership connects you with the resources, credentials, and community to advance your career.
Membership Tiers
Choose Your Path
Associate Member
The entry point into AADS and the pathway toward CDS certification.
Contact Us
Annual dues vary
Eligibility
Open to any licensed dental professional or dental industry professional with an interest in dental speaking.
Includes
- ✦Access to AADS member resources and community
- ✦Listing in the AADS member directory
- ✦Eligibility to attend AADS events and CE programs
- ✦Mentorship and peer networking opportunities
- ✦Pathway to apply for CDS certification
Certified Dental Speaker
A board-conferred credential recognizing demonstrated speaking excellence.
Contact Us
Requires Associate membership
Eligibility
Current Associate Members who meet eligibility requirements and are approved by the AADS Board of Directors.
Includes
- ✦Use of the CDS designation
- ✦Enhanced listing in the AADS Certified Speaker Directory
- ✦Priority placement for speaking referrals
- ✦Access to CDS-exclusive resources and programming
- ✦Eligibility for FAADS Fellowship nomination
Fellow of AADS
The highest AADS distinction, awarded by nomination to exceptional CDS members.
By Nomination
Invitation only
Eligibility
Active CDS members nominated by the AADS Board for sustained excellence and significant contribution to dental education.
Includes
- ✦Use of the FAADS designation
- ✦Recognition as a Fellow of the Association
- ✦Invitation to serve in AADS leadership and advisory roles
- ✦Featured placement in AADS publications and communications
- ✦Legacy recognition within the dental speaking profession
Member Benefits
What Membership Provides
Credentials & Recognition
- ✦Professional designation recognized by dental organizations nationwide
- ✦Listing in the AADS Certified Speaker Directory
- ✦Verified credentials displayed on your member profile
Education & Development
- ✦Access to AADS continuing education programs and webinars
- ✦Speaker training resources and presentation skills workshops
- ✦Annual AADS Summit with keynotes and breakout sessions
Community & Networking
- ✦Peer network of dental speakers across all specialties
- ✦Mentorship connections with experienced CDS members
- ✦Member forums and collaborative learning opportunities
Visibility & Referrals
- ✦Referral opportunities from organizations seeking dental speakers
- ✦Featured in AADS communications and publications
- ✦Access to speaking leads and event organizer connections
Apply
Apply for Membership
Complete the form below to begin your AADS membership application. A member of our team will follow up within 5 business days.
What to Expect
Application review within 3–5 business days
AADS representative will contact you with next steps
Dues information and onboarding details provided
Access to member benefits upon approval
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for AADS membership?
AADS membership is open to any licensed dental professional (dentist, hygienist, dental assistant, dental therapist) or dental industry professional with an interest in dental speaking and education. You do not need to be a full-time speaker to join many members are clinicians who speak occasionally or are just beginning to build a speaking career.
What is the difference between Associate membership and CDS certification?
Associate membership is the entry point into AADS, providing access to benefits, resources, and community. It is also the pathway for professionals who are building toward CDS certification but are not yet ready to apply. The Certified Dental Speaker (CDS) designation is a professional credential that can only be conferred by the AADS Board of Directors. Once an applicant completes the review process, the Board votes to issue the designation. No one can self-designate as a CDS. Associate membership is the recommended starting point for those who want to earn their CDS over time.
How much does membership cost?
AADS membership dues are determined based on membership tier and individual circumstances. Please contact AADS directly for current dues information. We are committed to making membership accessible to dental professionals at all career stages.
How do I apply for CDS certification?
CDS certification is available to current AADS Associate Members who meet the eligibility requirements. The certification process involves submitting an application, providing speaking samples, completing a professional review, and participating in an interview. The AADS Board of Directors reviews all applications and votes to issue the CDS designation. Visit the Certification page for full details.
What is the FAADS Fellowship?
The Fellow of the American Association of Dental Speakers (FAADS) is the highest AADS distinction. It is awarded by nomination to CDS members who demonstrate sustained excellence, significant contribution to dental education, and leadership within the profession. Fellowship is by invitation only and is not applied for directly.
Can I be listed in the AADS Speaker Directory?
All AADS members are listed in the member directory. CDS-certified members receive enhanced placement in the AADS Certified Speaker Directory, which is the primary resource used by organizations, conferences, and dental companies seeking qualified dental speakers.
Ready to pursue CDS certification?
Learn About CDS Certification →