NEWSROOM

Chocolate is one of the most popular treats in the world, and debate over its potential health benefits has made it a widely researched topic. A new General Dentistry article reviews general benefits of chocolate and discusses negative oral health consequences of excess consumption.

AGD maintains that fluoride, when used appropriately, is safe and effective in preventing and controlling dental decay and expresses concern over recent statements by Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, MD, to end community water fluoridation.

AGD’s House of Delegates installed new officers during its annual meeting, Nov. 22–24. Merlin P. Ohmer, DDS, MAGD, a general dentist from Florida, concluded his term as AGD president, and Chethan Chetty, DDS, MAGD, was installed as AGD president for 2024–25.

Gain insights into the current legislative and regulatory landscapes and how they are affecting your practice or could in the future during AGD’s Virtual Advocacy Conference, Dec. 20–21. Discover how you can influence legislative and regulatory conversations while earning up to 6.75 free CE credits.

Working at the local level, AGD constituencies do tremendous work to advance AGD’s mission and vision. Their outstanding efforts were recognized during AGD’s annual meeting.

To be eligible for the Fellowship or Mastership awards or Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition at AGD2025 in Montréal, all requirements must be completed by Dec. 31, 2024. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to earn well-deserved recognition for your dedication and service.

Five new on-demand webinars have been added to AGD’s Online Learning Center library of 170+ titles. If you’re interested in receiving free CE, upgrade to the Premium Plus membership level to gain access to the free CE library plus four on-demand webinars of your choice.

Chethan Chetty, DDS, MAGD, Begins Role as Leader of Influential Dental Association

There is a long history of controversy and a lack of understanding regarding the relationship between occlusion and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms. A new case report in General Dentistry presents the use of clear aligners as a probable cofactor of TMD in an adult patient.

Dr. Merlin P. Ohmer concludes his term as AGD president next Sunday, Nov. 24, at the end of the AGD annual meeting. He leaves a legacy that includes an unwavering commitment to CE, strategic governance reform, strong advocacy networks and member engagement.

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

This two half-day virtual event will provide insights into key state and federal oral health issues, highlighting how intra-dentistry collaborations can enhance advocacy efforts. Learn how to influence legislative and regulatory discussions while exploring AGD's advocacy initiatives on behalf of our members.

After years of dental school, new graduates are thrust into the work of practice. What are some of the nonclinical career paths in dentistry, and how can dentists who want to leave the world of chairside care explore their options?

After suspending his presidential campaign this year, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign. Since President Trump’s victory, Kennedy has made several press statements indicating that he will have an important role in directing the Trump Administration’s health policy agenda, though a specific role has not yet been announced.

On November 1, 2024, CMS released its Medicare and Medicaid Programs; CY 2025 Payment Policies under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment and Coverage Policies; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements; Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program; and Medicare Overpayments final rule.

On November 5, 2024, former President Donald Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris with 312-226 electoral votes. Although a winner has not been declared in all Congressional races, Republicans won enough seats to claim the majority in the U.S. Senate and appear to be on track to retain the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.

AGD Impact columnist Dr. Amrita Feiock says effective leadership in nonclinical pathways is crucial for the success and sustainability of the dental profession. In her latest column, she discusses several pathways that encompass various nonclinical leadership roles.