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Recently, AGD Podcast Series host Dr. George J. Schmidt spoke with Dr. Amrita R. Patel, an award-winning author and national educator, who shared her journey in dentistry and discussed her contributions to the profession through writing and leadership roles.

The clock is ticking! You have less than two weeks to join the AGD2026 speaker lineup. We’re seeking dynamic presenters for the Take the Floor education series — symposium-style sessions designed to build a following and showcase timely dental innovations. Secure your spot before the Feb. 1 deadline!

While dentists are generally well aware that they are “mandated reporters,” there is a great deal of confusion concerning what being a mandated reporter actually entails. The common belief that a mandated reporter must make a report to the appropriate authority if they see that one of their child patients has been abused falls so short of a dentist’s actual legal and ethical obligations that many dentists are at risk of state and/or dental board sanction without knowing it.

High-level dentistry requires a team that effectively communicates the value of care. Join us in Chicago to master elite communication strategies that boost productivity and patient outcomes. Register for the All-Star Case Acceptance Mastery Series Level 1 by Feb. 1 to secure the early bird rate.

AGD Impact’s 2026 10 Dentists to Watch list is live! From community health clinics in rural Wisconsin to high-tech practices in New York City and even the front lines of the U.S. Army Dental Corps, this year’s 10 Dentists to Watch are redefining what it means to lead in modern dentistry. Check out this year’s honorees and see how they are impacting the future of dentistry.

Showcase your work, and win big! Submit your abstract for the AGD2026 Scientific e-Poster Session. The top two winners in each category (scientific research, clinical case study and literature review) will earn $700 and $550 and an official certificate, plus recognition among dental professionals nationwide.

Physiologic changes in pregnancy increase the risk of oral health issues, which can affect both the woman and the fetus. A study in the latest issue of General Dentistry assesses pregnant women’s knowledge of maternal and child oral health, evaluating socioeconomic, demographic and gestational influences.

AGD is working to address the most pressing issues faced by our members as we advocate to government entities for general dentists.

The final countdown begins! Registration for AGD2026 opens next Tuesday, January 20! Secure your spot to unlock 7 FREE CE credits for courses by esthetic pioneer Dr. David Hornbrook. In the meantime, check out the lastest and find out about must-see attractions in fabulous Las Vegas.

In 2026 AGD is joining the National Council of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) as a Corporate and Institutional Partner. This allows AGD access to special events during NCOIL meetings and free exhibit space during NCOIL meetings. NCOIL is a very influential organization of state legislators who are involved in insurance reform.

On December 17, 2025, the House passed H.R. 6703, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, a Republican-led proposal to address health care affordability. The bill includes provisions to enhance association health plans, fund cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments, expand eligibility for bronze catastrophic plans, and implement pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reforms.

“I never want the technology or procedures to overshadow the human connection because, on the other side of that handpiece, is me, not a robot.”

Serving as a Student Delegate at the 2025 AGD House of Delegates was one of the most impactful and formative experiences of my dental school career. The meeting offered an in-depth look into how the Academy of General Dentistry functions as a national organization committed to advocacy education and the long-term success of general dentists.

“When you take that time up front, patients walk away with confidence in their care and a stronger commitment to their own health, which has a ripple effect far beyond the dental chair.”

“Being able to take patients who have been struggling with their teeth for years and change their lives in one appointment has been an incredible and emotional experience, both for the patients and myself.”

“When we combine advanced tools with a space that feels open, inclusive and calming, we can transform the way people think about going to the dentist.”

“In military dentistry, continuity of care beyond a couple of years is rare. That uncertainty drives me to hold myself to the highest possible standard.”

“I never want the technology or procedures to overshadow the human connection because, on the other side of that handpiece, is me, not a robot.”