This Week at AGD

Volunteering in international dentistry is a meaningful way for dental professionals to make a global impact by providing essential oral healthcare to underserved communities. International communities often require a mix of short-term relief efforts and long-term systemic improvements to meet their dental needs effectively.

The February issue of AGD Impact is live! In it, you can learn how to plan for a volunteer dental trip abroad and read about the experiences other dentists have had on these trips. Columns include Practice Management, New Dentists, Student Perspectives and Wellness.

Join us in vibrant Montréal July 9–12 for an unparalleled dental learning experience. Explore courses led by industry experts, and refine your skills and knowledge in real time. Plus, be among the first 100 to register for a chance to win a $500 airfare credit!

A new study evaluated the effects of mouth breathing on the physical proficiency of children and adolescents. Results of the 6-minute walk test showed that mouth breathing had a significant negative impact on the performance of young male patients.

Call the play, and invite your colleagues to join AGD. Each successful referral earns you $50 in rewards once they join, applicable toward your membership renewal. It’s a winning strategy for all. Ready to start? Complete the online referral form today, and boost your professional game.

Next Thursday, Feb. 13, is your last chance to submit a speaker abstract for AGD2025’s "Take the Floor" education series. This is your chance to showcase your skills and shine at the premier general dentistry meeting. Selected speakers will enjoy complimentary registration. Don’t miss out — apply now!

Recently, AGD Podcast Series host Dr. George J. Schmidt spoke with Dr. Larry Stanleigh about ways to create connections with new and existing patients. A new episode also features Dr. Stephanie Flynn Tilley and Jacqui Kozlowski discussing the challenges and opportunities for women in dentistry.

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

AGD Impact regularly features a Testing the Tools column with practical reviews of some of the latest dental products. This month, reviewer Dr. Ross Isbell, a general dentist in Gadsden, Alabama, tested an injection molding frame to assist with veneer placement, an interproximal kit and a new flowable composite.

Marketing is an ongoing journey. Success comes from staying curious, testing ideas and being open to change. What works today may shift tomorrow, but, with continual learning and adaptation, your practice will be ready to thrive — no matter what the future brings.

Submit a speaker abstract for AGD2025’s Take the Floor education series! Lead a 45-minute session on dental practice, innovation or well-being. Share your expertise, and make a lasting impact on the dental community! Selected speakers will also receive complimentary meeting registration.

Visa, Mastercard, and the Defendant Banks have reached a settlement, which arose from claims that merchants paid excessive interchange fees for accepting card payments. The deadline to file a claim is next Tuesday, February 4. AGD has selected MCAG, a class action settlement expert, to assist our clients in hopes of recovering the maximum amount you’re due from the settlement.

Join us in vibrant Montréal, July 9–12, for an unparalleled dental learning experience. Explore hands-on CE courses led by industry experts, refine your skills in real-time, and stay ahead of the latest advancements in oral health.

Get ready to register for AGD2025! Registration opens next Wednesday, Jan. 29. The first 100 full-dues-paying AGD members who register for AGD2025 will be entered into a special drawing to win a $500 airfare credit! Don’t miss this opportunity. In the meantime, learn more about the must-see attractions in historic Montréal.

While many aspiring dentists may not immediately think about working at a correctional institution upon graduation, correctional dentistry can provide a very fulfilling and stable career path. Like any dental field, it has pros and cons, but many correctional dentists find deep satisfaction in their work.

Chronic ingestion of a beta carotene–rich diet may promote the development of yellow-orange hyperpigmentation of the oral mucosa. The new issue of General Dentistry details a case of this benign condition, carotenemia, which must be differentiated from more concerning disorders, particularly jaundice associated with hepatitis.

The “Take the Floor” education series is now accepting speaker abstracts! This program features 45-minute presentations exploring clinical innovations, mental health and physical well-being. This is your time to shine. Inspire, educate and make a lasting impact at AGD2025. The deadline to submit is Feb. 13.

AGD leaders met this past weekend to strategize for 2025 and beyond. In addition to their individual remote meetings throughout the year, all AGD councils meet together in person once per year to discuss the organization’s current status and develop new ways to advocate for general dentists and meet the needs of our membership.

In 2024, a job task analysis was carried out in conjunction with the AGD Fellowship Exam program. As a result, revisions have been made to the blueprint of the 2025 Fellowship Exam, study materials and content outline.

The 2025 10 Dentists to Watch list is live! This year’s talented young dentists bring diverse skills and ambitions to the field, united by their commitment to lifelong learning and delivering exceptional care to their patients.