This Week at AGD

AGD has played a pivotal role in my dental career since my time in dental school. Initially, AGD provided an essential foundation for me as a student, offering networking opportunities with other student leaders passionate about general dentistry. It introduced me to the importance of continuing education (CE) — not just as a learner, but as someone who could organize educational experiences for others.

When I graduated from dental school in 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was excited to start my career. Yet, as the weeks and months progressed, I began to feel a sense of loneliness. Maybe it was the abrupt way my dental school education was cut short by an unprecedented global public health event — or maybe, I thought, it was because of the nature of general practice dentistry.

Growing up in Texas, I figured I would be a Texan my entire life. I went to college and dental school in Texas. It just made sense that I would buy a practice near where I grew up. But this path was not meant to be. I ended up in West Virginia, and I can truly say that AGD is the reason I have the position I have. And for that, I love AGD.

AGD has been more than an organization to me — it has been the foundation of my professional growth and success. Early in my career, I was a new graduate struggling to find my footing. Opening a practice from scratch in 2007, with no local connections and minimal business experience, was a daunting challenge. I found myself overwhelmed and unsure how to navigate the complexities of running a dental office.

In celebration of all that the organization has to offer, AGD Impact reached out to four members and asked them to tell their AGD stories. AGD has shaped their careers in different ways, but, like so many dentists across the country, they all agree that they would not be where they are today without AGD — and that they love their AGD family.

AGD Fellows, Masters, and Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition recipients are celebrated as dentists who go above and beyond. They stay at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and procedures to deliver exceptional care.

The March/April issue of General Dentistry describes practical chairside techniques for designing digital custom abutments, performing mucocompressive impressions and utilizing CAD/CAM veneers for diastema closure. In addition, the issue features case reports that describe diagnosis and management of cemental tear, traumatic bone cyst, secondary syphilis and more.

AGD is seeking nominations for the 2025 Albert L. Borish, Distinguished Service and Humanitarian awards, all of which recognize exceptional achievements and contributions to the dental profession. All nominations and supporting documentation must be submitted by March 14 to the AGD Awards Committee.

Dental students, residents and recent grads — submit your abstract for the AGD2025 Scientific e-Poster Session by April 2! Topics include scientific research, clinical case studies and literature reviews. Two winners per category will receive a monetary award and certificate. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Join us at AGD2025 in Montréal and earn the CE credits you need for your MAGD Award! Enhance your expertise with hands-on courses in cosmetic dentistry, restorative practices, and advanced procedures. Don’t miss out.

The March issue of AGD Impact is live, and it’s all about AGD! Learn how AGD can elevate your career through the firsthand stories of four fellow members, explore insights from two of AGD’s Exclusive Benefits providers, get a sneak peek at how AGD2025 can invigorate your practice, and more.

Make the assist, and cash in! Refer colleagues to AGD, and you’ll earn $50 in Referral Rewards for each one who joins. Stack up rewards faster than a last-second shot, and use them toward your renewal dues.

AGD2025 isn't just another conference; it's a premier event crafted by general dentists, for general dentists! As a general dentist, I'm deeply passionate about continuing education because I know firsthand that it's essential for career mastery. That’s why I personally invite you to AGD2025 in Montréal Canada, July 9-12.

On March 1, AGD will extend its call center hours to better accommodate members, providing more flexibility for members across different time zones. The new hours are: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (CT); Tuesday, Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (CT).

A study assessing the marginal seal of restored access cavities in zirconia found that glass ionomer restorations provided inferior microleakage prevention, while direct composite restorations and zirconia inlays offered favorable results, and aluminum oxide air abrasion showed the potential to enhance marginal seal.

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

Join AGD’s Fellowship Review Course at AGD2025, July 9–10! Refresh your knowledge in 17 dental disciplines, take the Fellowship Exam the next day, and boost your chances of earning the AGD Fellowship Award. Need guidance? We’re here to help you.

AGD has introduced 23 new on-demand webinars to help dentists enhance their expertise and stay ahead in their practice. Covering topics from clinical techniques to practice management, these courses offer flexible learning at your convenience.

Participating in a volunteer trip overseas is no small decision. AGD Impact asked four dentists who have participated in overseas volunteer trips to share their stories and how these unique experiences changed them.

As a dad, I try to include my children on as many trips as possible. Years later, they still talk about the unique experiences they’ve had. There always seems to be one constant: After every trip, each one of us is always a better person than we were the week before.