AGD is working to address the most pressing issues faced by our members as we advocate to government entities for general dentists. The AGD recently advocated for tax-deductibility on PPP loan expenses, as well as for the creation of a “healthy workplace” tax credit.

As demand for esthetic orthodontic treatment in adults has grown, clear aligner therapy (CAT) has become increasingly accessible for patients and appealing to providers. This article highlights the clinical scope and limitations of CAT while outlining the differences among various clear aligner products.

In order to get recognized as a Fellow or Master at AGD2021 in Austin, Texas, June 9–12, applications must be postmarked on or before Dec. 31, 2020. Still need to check off some award requirements? AGD offers several resources to help you fulfil the requirements for Fellowship and Mastership.

On Aug. 4, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reissued its Guidance for Dental Settings. The guidance has been rearranged for clarity, includes updated definitions, and outlines steps to take to foster proactive communication and ensure safety.

Ivoclar Vivadent and AGDVANTAGE are partnering to offer AGD members a special promotion later this month. Be sure to sign up with AGDVANTAGE now so that you will be ready to take full advantage of this time-sensitive promotion. More details are coming soon.

AGD Corporate Sponsor Crest Oral-B has evaluated electric toothbrushes and shares its findings on how a new generation of these devices can improve patient care.

In fall 2019, some dentists were taken aback to learn that their states would soon be mandating electronic prescribing of controlled substances. What do dentists need to know about complying with these new requirements?

The 2020 in-person Fall Fellowship Review Course and exam in Washington, D.C., has been cancelled and will be replaced with a five-day Virtual Fall Fellowship Review Course that will take place Wednesday, Sept. 30, through Sunday, Oct. 4. Registration for the course closes on Sept. 25.

New Dentist Week, a weeklong virtual event will take place in just one week, Aug. 17–21. The week is tailored to the educational needs of students and new dentists. Attendees will have unique networking opportunities, and the first 100 registrants will be invited to participate in a mentorship program.

How would you like to attend AGD2021 for free? Each new AGD member you recruit qualifies as an entry to win a trip to AGD2021 in Austin, June 9–12. Plus, once they join, you’ll both receive $50 in Referral Rewards.

You work hard taking care of patients and employees at your practice, and AGD wants to remind you to take care of yourself, too. To help members experience balance and not financial burnout, AGD’s Exclusive Benefits program offers a variety of deals on products, services and more.

The newest issue of AGD Impact tackles the complicated set of circumstances dentists approaching retirement during the COVID-19 pandemic have to consider. Other stories include how to save money by buying used equipment and four factors of revenue recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.

AGD continues to advocate for general dentistry and work to respond to member needs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. On July 17, AGD and the Organized Dentistry Coalition outlined priorities for the next COVID-19 relief bill in a letter to congressional leaders.

AGD Foundation’s electronic silent auction last month raised nearly $19,000. Thank you to everyone who supported the organization and its mission to raise awareness of oral cancer. If you were unable to donate and want to join your colleagues in support of our mission, please donate online now.

Scott Burrows brings the concepts of vision, mindset and grit to life. He has overcome two separate catastrophic accidents that forced him to reevaluate, reinvent and reignite his life. His captivating story will inspire you to create a mindset of hopefulness and growth.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught dentists that marketing their dental practices online is more important than ever. The crisis has trained people to reach for their computers for information, products and services, and you can leverage the online momentum and the public’s need for facts to rebuild your practice.

AGD has resources to help you on your journey as a new dentist. First, protect your career with complimentary coverage from Dentist’s Advantage. Don’t have a position lined up, or has your job been put on hold? AGD can help dental jobs find you through AGD’s online Career Center.

New Dentist Week is a weeklong virtual event Aug. 17–21 tailored to the specific educational needs of students and new dentists, with programs each night featuring exceptional speakers. Attendees will also have unique networking opportunities, and the first 150 registrants will be invited to participate in a mentorship program.

In a recent letter to National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) President Ron Bolden, AGD President Connie L. White, DDS, FAGD, urged NADP member plans to apply “forward-thinking measures” in their business practices to address the dramatic changes in the delivery of dental services in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The VET CARE Act of 2019 (H.R. 2628) addresses dental care programs for veterans and is currently pending a full House vote. AGD members are urged to send a message to their legislators and the Speaker of the House that this bill needs to be voted on this session.