Welcome to the Eastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry

The Eastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry (ESPD) is the official organization representing District II of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). The AAPD is the professional organization representing the specialty of pediatric dentistry. In addition to members residing and practicing in the United States, pediatric dentists in federal service and those in foreign countries are also eligible for membership. Worldwide, there are over 6,800 members of the AAPD who work in private offices, clinics, hospitals and universities & dental schools as professors and researchers.

Component states/organizations of the Eastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry (District II) are Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, the District of Columbia, members in federal service and those in many foreign countries.

Mission Statement

The mission of the ESPD is to promote activities that will result in optimal oral health and oral health care for children. This is accomplished by adherence to guidelines and programs ratified by the members of the AAPD to accomplish these aims. The ESPD also serves as a liaison to other health care groups and the public in its domain.

Vision Statement

The Vision of the ESPD is optimal health and care for all infants, children, adolescents and persons with special health care needs. The Society and its members are leaders in representing the oral health interests of all children. A pediatric dentist is a recognized primary oral health care provider and is a resource for specialty referral for children.

Pediatric Dentistry: A recognized Dental Specialty

Pediatric Dentistry is one of the nine recognized dental specialties of the American Dental Association. Pediatric dentists complete two to three years of additional specialized training (after the required four years of dental school) to prepare them for treating a wide variety of children’s dental problems. They are also trained and qualified to care for patients with medical, physical or mental challenges.