This Week at AGD

Botulinum toxin is noninvasive, safe and effective as an adjunct therapy for various orofacial disorders. A case series in the new issue of General Dentistry describes its successful use in treating gummy smile caused by muscle hyperfunction.

The ethical principle of beneficence challenges dentists to do their best considering the circumstances presented by the patient. A column on self-care by Frederick G. More, DDS, MS, suggests dentists should also regularly ask, “How am I doing?”

From April 1 through May 31, all AGD Fellowship study guides (2016–2020) and the Study Guide Supplement (2008–2015) are discounted. This is the perfect way to save money while preparing for the Fellowship Exam.

In the latest issue of General Dentistry, a case of Munchausen syndrome (MunS) is reported in a woman who sought treatment for jaw pain and uncontrolled jaw movements. The article also addresses how to identify MunS, relevant courses of action, appropriate referral and the consequences of overdiagnosis of MunS.

Student and resident members know the value of saving a dollar. That's why we want to make sure you check out the members-only offers available through AGD’s Exclusive Benefits program. Get special deals on student loan refinancing; life, rental and auto insurance; and even online shopping.

AGD is working to address the most pressing issues faced by our members as we advocate to government entities for general dentists. Last week the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued the seventh amendment to the Declaration under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act to authorize dentists and dental students to administer COVID-19 vaccines in all 50 states.

The first several years after dental school can be a daunting time. For many young dentists, a mentor can help. Members of the AGD Communications Council help explain the process of finding a mentor — and how to make a mentorship successful.

During this time of year, taxes are on a lot of dentists’ minds. Dental accountant Brian Hanks, MBA, CFP, addresses four of the major tasks your CPA should have performed this year. These are good ways to ensure you received the best tax advice possible and aren’t overpaying on your taxes.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been implicated for decades in cervical and uterine cancers, but recent data have shown an increase in cases of virally related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma in both male and female cohorts.

Early bird pricing for AGD2021 in Austin, Texas, ends Wednesday, April 14. This will be the last opportunity to secure the lowest registration prices for the premier meeting in general dentistry.

This year, AGD will include a virtual option for AGD2021 attendees unable to attend in person. Virtual courses will run June 9–12 in conjunction with AGD2021 live courses being held in Austin. Don’t miss this opportunity to earn hard-to-find CE while participating from home or the office.

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, dental office design and redesign became a frequent and sometimes overwhelming concern for dentists as more recommendations from healthcare experts and health agencies arose.

Help membership bloom this spring by inviting a colleague to join AGD. Once they join, you’ll both receive $50 in Referral Rewards, which can be applied toward the headquarters dues portion of membership renewal. The more colleagues you recruit, the more rewards you’ll earn.

The deadline for dental students, residents and 2020 graduates to submit their clinical or basic research for the AGD2021 Scientific e-Poster Session is April 10 at 11:59 p.m. CDT. The winners from each category will receive a certificate and $600.

AGD President Bruce L. Cassis, DDS, MAGD, reflects on the challenges faced by AGD’s membership over the last year and shares five key lessons he learned through overcoming these challenges.

AGD is working to address the most pressing issues faced by our members as we advocate to government entities for general dentists. The FDA recently authorized the third COVID-19 vaccine developed by Johnson & Johnson, and the next stimulus package heads to the Senate after it passed through the House of Representatives.

Congratulations to Maribel M. Vann, DDS, on winning airfare for two to AGD2021 in Austin, Texas!

Student members who refer fellow classmates to become AGD members can earn up to $850 in gift cards from AGD once they join. You can put money in your pocket, no bracket required!

Caren Abraham, DDS, always knew she wanted a career in which she could serve others. In 2020, in the middle of a global pandemic, she helped start a dental clinic at Kapsowar Mission Hospital in Kapsowar, Kenya, the first dental clinic in the region.

Dental health professionals have a responsibility to educate patients and the public about oral cancer. Join in the fight by volunteering to help with free oral cancer screenings of AGD2021 attendees and employees of the Fairmont Austin Hotel on Friday, June 11, at AGD2021 in Austin, Texas.