This Week at AGD

Every general dentist understands the importance of safe and effective sedation, and the American Dental Association’s (ADA’s) sedation guidelines provide clear recommendations on best practices. But when it comes to legal requirements, the ADA guidelines are only part of the picture. The article includes a Self-Instruction quiz in AGD’s Online Learning Center to earn 1 CE credit.

AGD Impact has been selected to receive the International College of Dentists’ 2026 Humanitarian Service Article Award. AGD was recognized for “Dental Volunteer Trips: How to Plan and Stories from Abroad,” the five-part humanitarian service series published in February 2025.

AGD is built by and for general dentists, but it also boasts many specialist members. Dr. Jack Piermatti is one such specialist member. A longtime AGD member and Fellow, he remains committed to lifelong learning, advancing excellence in dentistry and advocating for AGD.

Registration is now open for AGD’s in-person participation course, “Endo Unlocked: Build Confidence, Master Technique,” on Friday, Oct. 16. Led by world-renowned endodontist Dr. Brett E. Gilbert, this intensive session targets the exact clinical pain points general dentists face during root canals, replacing procedural anxiety with operational certainty.

In a new case report published in General Dentistry, Brooks et al describe a rare giant compound odontoma containing more than 50 tooth-like structures.

This month, AGD Impact Testing the Tools reviewer Ross Isbell, DDS, MBA, a general dentist in Gadsden, Alabama, evaluated three products shaping daily practice: the ICam photogrammetry system from Imetric, Elevate Oral Care’s silver diamine fluoride gel, and the Eyeris 1 eye massager from Renpho.

Test your core knowledge with our quick Fellowship Practice Quiz, then gain the competitive edge at the Fall Fellowship Review Course in New Orleans, Sept. 25–26. Earn 16 CE hours over two intensive days, and maximize your success on the exam the next morning.

Get inspired by eight special podcast episodes recorded live during AGD2026. Featuring engaging conversations with AGD members, the series explores personal journeys, clinical insights, career advice and the rewards of practicing general dentistry. Discover the stories behind the profession, and hear what makes the AGD community so exceptional.

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

All requirements for your FAGD, MAGD or LLSR must be submitted by Dec. 31, 2026. To simplify your journey, leverage the complimentary AGD Award Navigator. Request your personalized progress report and step-by-step roadmap today to unlock your blueprint for success, and celebrate on stage at AGD2027 in Chicago.

You’re leaving money on the table if you aren't using your free member CE in AGD’s Online Learning Center. While you’re there, browse over 160+ offerings, and instantly upgrade your skills across a wide variety of dental disciplines — all from the comfort of your home or office.

More than 59,000 Americans will face an oral cancer diagnosis this year. Missing a subtle symptom changes lives. On July 23, the AGD Foundation will launch its crucial new quarterly webinar series. In the first webinar, Dr. Divya Upadhyay will reveal how AI and precision medicine revolutionize early detection.

The decisions facing a general dentist who participates in Medicaid right now are more difficult than they were a year ago after the One Big Beautiful Bill Act became law July 4, 2025, and the questions are still mounting.

In this month’s AGD Impact Leadership column, Dr. Amrita Feiock reminds readers of the importance of speaking up to shape the profession. She emphasizes that, no matter your career stage, you have an opportunity to chime in and use your credibility to effect change.

In the first installment of a new public health column in General Dentistry, Dr. McAllister Castelaz encourages dentists to review their antibiotic prescribing practices. By offering practical steps toward good antibiotic stewardship, Castelaz highlights the ways dentists can be leaders in public health.

In this new AGD Podcast episode, Dr. George J. Schmidt sits down with American Dental Hygienists’ Association President Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, to discuss the evolving role of dental hygienists in improving oral and overall health and her passion for expanding access to care and advancing the dental hygiene profession.

AGD wants to help ease your expenses this summer with some special savings just for you. AGD provides practical offers for renters, auto and health insurance — for an extra bit of financial security — as well as online shopping deals.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” That’s one reason great dentists surround themselves with other great dentists. Share AGD with colleagues — they’ll receive 50% off dues through Sept. 30.

Planning to earn your FAGD, MAGD or LLSR in 2027? Request AGD's new complimentary Award Navigator for a personalized progress report and roadmap based on your transcript. To be recognized at AGD2027 Convocation, complete your requirements and submit your application by Dec. 31, 2026.

The July issue of AGD Impact is live! Our cover story this month dives deep into the American Dental Association’s new sedation guidelines. A special feature explores state Medicaid dental benefits one year after the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed.