This month, reviewer Ross Isbell, DMD, MBA, a general dentist in Gadsden, Alabama, tested a cordless diode laser, bonding solution for restorations and a hemostatic gauze for uncontrolled bleeding. Stay informed on equipment that helps you and your practice by checking out his reviews.

Achieving work-life balance as a dental professional may not be easy, but it’s possible with intention and thoughtful planning. By prioritizing time for yourself, your family and your professional growth, you can create a fulfilling, well-rounded life both inside and outside the clinic.

Submit your AGD Fellowship, Mastership, or Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition application by Dec. 31, 2024, to participate in the 2025 Convocation Ceremony at AGD2025. This is your chance to demonstrate your commitment to lifelong learning and community service — be recognized and celebrated on stage in front of your peers!

Registration for AGD2025 and courses opens Jan. 29, 2025! Connect with dental professionals worldwide, exchange insights and explore the latest in oral health. Advance your skills through hands-on continuing education courses, led by top experts, offering real-time practice and valuable learning opportunities.

While there are national guidelines on enteral sedation, each state dental board may set its own rules. This variance leads to confusion among clinicians, especially those who practice in more than one state.

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

Thus far, AI-related healthcare litigation has concerned copyright and antitrust — business concerns that do not put dentists themselves at greater risk of liability. Meanwhile, the use of AI may result in fewer clinical mistakes, which should result in fewer malpractice claims. Dentists can best protect themselves from AI-related liability by staying informed.

We’re excited to announce the addition of Managed Care Advisory Group (MCAG) as one of your AGD member benefits. MCAG specializes in identifying and recovering high-margin, nontraditional revenue for organizations through class action settlements with minimal effort on your part. Members will now receive a discounted rate on their services.

While AI has the potential to revolutionize dental practice, it is crucial for dentists to critically evaluate AI recommendations and uphold ethical standards. Dentists can ensure that AI serves as a valuable tool rather than a replacement for human judgment. AGD collaborates with the American College of Dentists to consider this issue.

This Wednesday, Dec. 18, is your final opportunity to register for AGD’s free Virtual Advocacy Conference and earn up to 6.75 CE credits. Gain insights into state and federal policy and discover how you can make a meaningful impact. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your knowledge and advocacy skills!

AI chatbots, the most prominent of which is currently ChatGPT, have begun to play a huge role in numerous sectors of society, including healthcare and dentistry. In dentistry, AI and ChatGPT are becoming integrated in three key areas: education, practice management and diagnosis.

Registration for AGD’s free Virtual Advocacy Conference closes next Wednesday, Dec. 18. Support organized dentistry while earning up to 6.75 CE credits. This is your chance to learn how to influence legislative and regulatory conversations. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity!

There are only a few weeks left to submit your application for the Fellowship and Mastership awards or Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition. This is your chance to join the ranks of the best in general dentistry and be recognized at AGD2025 in Montréal. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to earn your prestigious award!

Stay informed on the latest in dentistry by tapping into new perspectives from leaders in the profession with the AGD Podcast Series. Recently, host Dr. George J. Schmidt spoke with David Harris to discuss the impact of embezzlement on dental practices and steps practice owners should take to protect their businesses. Check out all the episodes of the AGD Podcast Series to stay up to date on the latest in dentistry. (Like what you hear? Vote for the AGD Podcast Series as one of the best dental podcasts.)

AGD continues to maintain that fluoride, when used appropriately, is safe and effective in preventing and controlling dental decay and expresses concern over recent statements by Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, MD, to end community water fluoridation.

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

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) have a multifactorial etiology, and a report in General Dentistry highlights clear aligner therapy (CAT) as a probable cofactor of TMD in a patient who developed masticatory pain during CAT. Dentists should be aware that CAT may exacerbate existing factors in some patients, leading to TMD symptoms.

On Nov. 24, 2024, Chethan Chetty, DDS, MAGD, was inducted as AGD president during the House of Delegates’ annual meeting in Chicago. This coming year, he plans to help guide the organization into the future by taking steps to increase grassroots engagement and promote membership while remaining open to organizational changes that could help modernize and improve operations.

The shortage of dental hygienists is one of the biggest challenges facing the dental industry. AGD Impact columnist Wesley Lyon acknowledges that the problem won’t solve itself overnight but suggests implementing three strategies to attract and maintain top talent.

‘Tis the season to make spirits bright by inviting your colleagues to join AGD. You’ll earn $50 in Referral Rewards when they join, and they’ll receive the rest of 2024 free when they join for 2025.