South Carolina Dental Association Records

The South Carolina Dental Association was established in 1869. Among its early purposes was to advocate against quack dental practitioners who lured clients with deceptive advertising. In 1875, the SCDA achieved passage in the SC General Assembly of the state’s first dental practice act which called for the election of a board of examiners authorized to issue licenses to graduates of accredited dental colleges without examination and to all other applicants upon examination. The SCDA held statewide meetings for its members, and in 1928 organized regional districts within South Carolina for the more manageable administration of the association. In 1959, the SCDA opened an office in Columbia from which the association was administered. The SCDA continues to provide professional support and leadership to members of the dental community in South Carolina.

The South Carolina Dental Association Records, 1870-1905, 1961 (with gaps), consist of one volume of recorded minutes, treasurer’s reports, and membership records which document the society’s activities; one folder of loose papers and newspaper clippings; and one folder of programs from annual meetings from 1925 to 1961 (with gaps). Included in the volume of minutes are summaries of papers and discussions presented to the association at its regular meetings, membership lists, and financial records.