The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) recently awarded the 2025 Distinguished Service Award to Bryan C. Edgar, DDS, MAGD. Edgar will be recognized during AGD's upcoming Annual Meeting in Chicago. This award was presented to Edgar recognizing his outstanding leadership, dedication, and decades-long commitment to advancing AGD’s mission and the profession of general dentistry. Edgar has been an AGD member since 1977.

The Distinguished Service Award honors an AGD council, committee, or task force member whose leadership and contributions have resulted in significant and lasting impact on the organization’s mission to serve the needs and represent the interests of general dentists.

“Receiving the Distinguished Service Award from the Academy of General Dentistry is an incredible honor,” said Edgar. “Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to serve alongside so many dedicated professionals who share a passion for advancing oral health and supporting the next generation of general dentists. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of those who believe in AGD’s mission and the power of lifelong service.”

Edgar, a graduate of the University of Washington School of Dentistry (1976), began his professional journey after receiving a U.S. Congressional Health Professions Scholarship for dental school. He completed a General Practice Residency (GPR) at Irwin Army Hospital in Ft. Riley, Kansas, followed by three years of active duty in the U.S. Army before entering private practice in Federal Way, Washington, where he served his community for more than 40 years.

During his military service, Edgar continued in the U.S. Army Reserves, completing two deployments, one during Operation Desert Storm and another as part of a humanitarian aid mission to South America. He retired with the rank of Colonel, a testament to his lifelong service and leadership.

Since joining AGD and the American Dental Association (ADA) in 1977, Edgar has been deeply engaged in organized dentistry. He served nine years on the AGD Board of Trustees, including three years as Region 11 Trustee and six years as AGD Speaker of the House. Before becoming speaker, he spent 12 years as parliamentarian for the American Association of Dental Boards and six years on AGD’s Constitution, Bylaws, and Judicial Affairs Council.

Beyond his leadership roles, Edgar brought his expertise in financial strategy and investment management to AGD, serving on four task forces focused on association property initiatives and as a member of the AGD Investment Committee for 18 years, helping to achieve record-setting investment reserves.

At the ADA, Edgar has represented his colleagues as a delegate to the House of Delegates for 30 years, with this year marking his final session.

Edgar has been with his wife Linda Edgar, DDS, MAGD, a past president of both AGD and ADA for 52 years.