This Week at AGD

Microplastics are believed to be the cause of dire health and environmental effects globally. Many dental applications have the potential to introduce microplastics directly into patients’ bodies. The full effect of this issue on patients’ health, however, is yet to be determined.

Students, residents and new dentists: Showcase your clinical research or innovative case study on a national stage. With only three weeks left to submit, now is the time to finalize your abstract. Present at AGD2026 in Las Vegas to gain professional recognition and compete for cash prizes up to $700.

AGD submitted comments to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin regarding the agency’s proposed Fluoride Preliminary Assessment Plan and Literature Survey, urging the EPA to prioritize studies published in reputable journals and align its evaluation standards with those of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

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

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we highlight the six female leaders who serve on the AGD Board. They share their perspectives on why advancing women into leadership positions is essential to AGD and creating opportunities for a more inclusive future.

Invest in excellence with our most comprehensive lineup ever. AGD2026 features 20+ specialized courses, from infection control and medical histories to advanced ceramics. Sharpen your team’s skills with expert-led training that translates directly to superior patient care and peak practice performance.

This issue features five practical paths for dentists who want to supplement their income. Other features include a deep dive into microplastics in dentistry, a sneak peek at AGD2026, and tips for making spring a season of growth and renewal for yourself and your practice.

Your connections can take you far. Invite colleagues to join AGD, and earn $50 in Referral Rewards for each new member. Hit Bronze, Silver or Gold recruiter status while stacking unlimited rewards that you can use toward renewal or in the AGD Marketplace.

Join Dr. Jim Grisdale May 1 at AGD headquarters to enhance your implant success. This intensive workshop will help you master ridge preservation and will include practicing new techniques on pig mandibles. Earn 6 participation CE credits in an intimate setting limited to 25 participants.

Read the latest issue for new research across subject areas. Highlights include a new installment of the “What Every Dentist Needs to Know” series on microplastics and dental materials, an overview of artificial intelligence applications in dentistry, a case report on maxillary central giant cell granuloma with a 31-year follow-up, and more.

Advance your leadership journey at AGD’s 2026 Leadership Development Symposium (LDS) — a dynamic day-and-a-half experience for current and emerging volunteer leaders. Led by AGD experts and a professional leadership coach, the LDS offers practical strategies, peer connection and a CliftonStrengths® assessment to help you lead with greater impact.

Each year, AGD Impact honors 10 early-career dentists for leadership and advancing oral healthcare. Join this webinar March 3 at 7 p.m. CT to hear some of the honorees share insights on career development, goal-setting and thriving in today’s evolving dental field, with time for a live Q&A.

Distinguish yourself by pursuing the Fellowship and Mastership awards or Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition. AGD provides the high-quality CE you need to fulfill these requirements, from the Online Learning Center and live courses to top-tier courses at AGD2026.

AGD is pleased to offer the Dr. Chethan and Avani Chetty Scholarship to dental students and residents planning to attend AGD2026. One recipient will receive $500 to offset expenses related to the meeting, including travel, lodging or course fees.

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

Apexification is a highly successful way to manage immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulp. A new review in General Dentistry aims to fill gaps in the apexification literature, which typically compares materials but stops short of offering clinical guidance.

Step onto the national stage at AGD2026. Submit your e-Poster abstract in clinical innovation or research to gain elite professional recognition. It’s more than a presentation; it’s a competition for top cash prizes of $700 and $550.

Today, serving as AGD president, I can confidently say AGD has evolved into an even stronger, more dynamic organization. We’ve stayed true to our core values while expanding our impact in education, advocacy and professional community.

In a story that starts humbly and spans two continents, 2026 AGD Fellowship candidate Dr. Fesehatsion T. Gebrehiwot shares why he decided to become a dentist and the motivation and determination that keeps him on this path.

AGD is seeking nominations for the 2026 Albert L. Borish, Distinguished Service and Humanitarian awards. Help us honor those who are inspirations through exceptional service, leadership, innovation and overall contributions to the dental profession. All nominations and supporting documentation must be submitted by April 15, 2026.