At that time members voluntarily contribute to a fund designed to help dentists and their families during times of unusual financial need. In addition, an ADA Disaster Relief Fund provides interest-free loans to dentists for the purpose of restoring a practice facility or personal dwelling damaged by a natural disaster. The TDA Council on Dental Benefit Programs assists purchasers and employee groups in selecting a dental plan. The Alliance has local and national chapters as well. The TDA is the voice of the membership in Nashville, not only during the legislative session but all year long.
Government plays a major role in the professional life of Tennessee's dentists.
Only through the collective voice of the more than 2,200 Tennessee Dental Association members will those elected to public office, or employed by state government, listen. Each Component Society has a representative on the TDA Council on Governmental Affairs and individual members are encouraged to become a liaison to one or more state legislators. The funds contributed, when paying annual membership dues, are used to elect or re-elect candidates who will work with dentistry on the issues affecting the profession. The TDA offers its assistance in resolving such problems and has an excellent track record in settling disputes which have arisen. If this situation arises, members are encouraged to first try to come to some resolution with the patient.