For nearly 75 years, AGD has been shaped by general dentists who understand the realities of our profession. That peer-driven perspective remains one of our organization’s greatest strengths — and one of the many ways it comes to life is through the work of AGD’s councils.

Throughout the year, council members bring their expertise, insights and real-world experience to the table to help guide AGD’s priorities. Together, they focus on the issues that matter most to general dentists, including education, advocacy, practice support, communications, benefits and membership value. Their collective goal is simple but powerful: ensure AGD continues to evolve in ways that support and advocate for its members.

Recently, council leaders gathered in person for a Joint Council Meeting, bringing together representatives from the Communications, Dental Education, Dental Practice, Group Benefits, Legislative and Governmental Affairs, Membership, New Dentists, PACE and Scientific Meetings councils. While council discussions continue virtually year-round, this in-person meeting provided a valuable opportunity for deeper collaboration and cross-council alignment.

These conversations drive meaningful progress. Council members examine policies and trends affecting the profession, explore new ideas and challenge existing approaches. From developing position papers on critical issues like Medicare and third-party payers to identifying emerging continuing education topics and speakers as well as evaluating new member benefits and recruitment strategies, the councils play a hands-on role in shaping AGD’s work.

“Our councils are where strategy turns into action,” said AGD President Marc J. Worob, DDS, FAGD. “This year, there has been a strong focus on identifying clear, practical tactics that support AGD’s new strategic plan and respond to the real needs of general dentists. These discussions aren’t theoretical — they’re grounded in what our members are experiencing every day in practice, and they help ensure we’re moving forward with purpose, alignment and measurable impact. I am so grateful to our leaders for their hard work.”

Meeting outcomes often include clear frameworks for the year ahead and early planning for longer-term initiatives. In many cases, recommendations move forward for broader consideration, ultimately leading to the implementation of new programs or policy decisions voted on at the annual meeting of AGD’s House of Delegates in the fall.

By tapping into the collective wisdom of general dentists, AGD’s councils help ensure the organization remains responsive, relevant and firmly grounded in the needs of its members — today and in the years to come.