“It’s incredibly rewarding to see patients who arrive with fear, pain or low self-esteem leave my dental chair with a renewed sense of confidence and a smile.”

“Dentistry is a great profession as it allows me to bring positive changes to people by either creating new smiles or getting them out of pain.”

“We’ve established strong partnerships with local organizations to connect our patients with food banks and housing assistance programs.”

“I always hope to provide care that is a partnership where the patient is accompanied on their oral health journey.”

“Each day is an opportunity to build a legacy of developing healthier communities.”

“I pride myself in having a laughter-filled office, with team members and patients laughing together in the hallways to help alleviate the anxiety that patients often feel.”

“I strive to be a relatable and transparent provider while taking quality care of people.”

“What truly inspired me was witnessing how restoring a smile could transform a person’s confidence and overall well-being.”

“I discovered that the world of dentistry was so much broader and more interesting than I knew, and I quickly made the commitment to dive into the field.”

This month, reviewer Ross Isbell, DMD, MBA, a general dentist in Gadsden, Alabama, tested a cordless diode laser, bonding solution for restorations and a hemostatic gauze for uncontrolled bleeding. Stay informed on equipment that helps you and your practice by checking out his reviews.

Achieving work-life balance as a dental professional may not be easy, but it’s possible with intention and thoughtful planning. By prioritizing time for yourself, your family and your professional growth, you can create a fulfilling, well-rounded life both inside and outside the clinic.

Submit your AGD Fellowship, Mastership, or Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition application by Dec. 31, 2024, to participate in the 2025 Convocation Ceremony at AGD2025. This is your chance to demonstrate your commitment to lifelong learning and community service — be recognized and celebrated on stage in front of your peers!

Registration for AGD2025 and courses opens Jan. 29, 2025! Connect with dental professionals worldwide, exchange insights and explore the latest in oral health. Advance your skills through hands-on continuing education courses, led by top experts, offering real-time practice and valuable learning opportunities.

While there are national guidelines on enteral sedation, each state dental board may set its own rules. This variance leads to confusion among clinicians, especially those who practice in more than one state.

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

Thus far, AI-related healthcare litigation has concerned copyright and antitrust — business concerns that do not put dentists themselves at greater risk of liability. Meanwhile, the use of AI may result in fewer clinical mistakes, which should result in fewer malpractice claims. Dentists can best protect themselves from AI-related liability by staying informed.

We’re excited to announce the addition of Managed Care Advisory Group (MCAG) as one of your AGD member benefits. MCAG specializes in identifying and recovering high-margin, nontraditional revenue for organizations through class action settlements with minimal effort on your part. Members will now receive a discounted rate on their services.

While AI has the potential to revolutionize dental practice, it is crucial for dentists to critically evaluate AI recommendations and uphold ethical standards. Dentists can ensure that AI serves as a valuable tool rather than a replacement for human judgment. AGD collaborates with the American College of Dentists to consider this issue.

This Wednesday, Dec. 18, is your final opportunity to register for AGD’s free Virtual Advocacy Conference and earn up to 6.75 CE credits. Gain insights into state and federal policy and discover how you can make a meaningful impact. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your knowledge and advocacy skills!

AI chatbots, the most prominent of which is currently ChatGPT, have begun to play a huge role in numerous sectors of society, including healthcare and dentistry. In dentistry, AI and ChatGPT are becoming integrated in three key areas: education, practice management and diagnosis.