This Week at AGD

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

Being a healthcare provider instills a sense of communal responsibility. Many dentists are drawn to the profession with the desire to help others. With that often comes the call to provide charitable care either in one’s own practice or through organizations, both locally and abroad.

Read the latest issue for new research across subject areas. Highlights include case reports on animal-assisted therapy for fearful pediatric patients, a scoping review analyzing the athletic performance benefits of mouthguard use and much more.

AGD’s 2026 Leadership Development Symposium brought together current and emerging leaders in general dentistry for a dynamic day-and-a-half experience focused on building stronger, more self-aware leaders. Held April 24–25 in Chicago, the symposium emphasized a strengths-based approach to leadership development.

Strengthen your practical skills this May through sessions on navigating implant prosthetic complications, preventing clinician burnout and mastering dental office leasing guidelines. These sessions provide a flexible and efficient way to earn your necessary CE credits.

This month’s cover story features several perspectives from practicing dentists on how to maximize the impact of any free dental care you provide, both locally and abroad, and a feature story covers nightmare scenarios in the dental clinic and how you should handle them.

AGD relies on the commitment of its constituent leaders, who serve as delegates each year to the House of Delegates Annual Meeting, where they provide input and governance for the organization. The 2026 Annual Meeting will be held Nov. 17–19.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has proclaimed May 3–9 as Drinking Water Week, highlighting the importance of safe drinking water in protecting public health. Dr. Melodie Jones, president of the Alabama AGD, attended the signing on behalf of Alabama AGD and the Oral Health Coalition of Alabama.

AGD is recruiting qualified members to serve as AGD spokespeople, serving as expert resources for media interviews and translating clinical knowledge into meaningful, consumer-focused messaging. We are seeking individuals who are subject matter experts, responsive to media opportunities and located near key media markets.

AGD relies on the commitment of its constituent leaders, who serve as delegates each year to the House of Delegates Annual Meeting, where they provide input and governance for the organization. The 2026 Annual Meeting will be held Nov. 17–19.

This week, AGD members will gather in Washington, D.C., for Hill Day, an important opportunity to bring the voice of general dentistry directly to policymakers. These members will meet with legislative leaders to discuss key bills that impact general dentists and dental students, ensuring they understand the real-world implications of the decisions they make.

Secure your spot at AGD2026 now to access over 25 hands-on courses and Dr. David Hornbrook’s seven free CE credits. Premium Plus members register for free, and Premium members receive a discounted rate. Finalize your plans today to lock in these savings.

Extend your leadership capabilities by serving on an AGD council or committee. AGD is currently seeking volunteers for 2026–27 councils and committees. Consider using your unique skills to guide the organization.

In honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, the April issue of AGD Impact features an update from the AGD Foundation on its mission to raise awareness of oral cancer. It also includes the latest in oral cancer research from around the world.

Read an excerpt from AGD Impact’s cover story this month (“Should You Invest in New Equipment? How to Calculate ROI”) by Dr. Akanksha Baheti, who discusses what young dentists should really be thinking about when it comes to ROI.

Early bird pricing expires next Thursday, April 30. Act now to access high-level hands-on education and Dr. David Hornbrook’s seven free CE credits. Registration is free for Premium Plus members, while Premium members receive a deep discount. Finalize your plans now to get the best rate possible.

Have you have been contemplating taking the Fellowship Exam? Register for one of the two upcoming Fellowship Review Course and Exam sessions, and make 2026 your year!

Over the past decade, the U.S. Navy Dental Corps has undergone a sweeping digital revolution following a $19 million investment in dental computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology in 2015.

Time is running out for early bird pricing. Prioritize your growth with immersive hands-on training and seven free CE credits with Dr. David Hornbrook. Premium Plus members still register at no cost, and Premium members get discounted rates through April 30.

There is still time to register for the May 1 bone grafting workshop in Chicago. The deadline has been extended to register and earn 6 hands-on CE credits through intensive practice with pig mandibles and expert instruction. There are just a few remaining spots!