During the week of May 5, 2025, AGD advocates and leadership traveled to Washington, D.C. to engage policymakers on key dental health issues. Keynote speakers included current and former members of Congress, including Dr. Brian Babin, U.S. Representative for Texas’ 36th Congressional District, Dr. Drew Ferguson, former U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District, and Dr. Jeff Van Drew, U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 2nd Congressional District. 

Dr. Van Drew was presented with the AGD Legislator of the Year award in recognition of his ongoing support of AGD’s legislative priorities. Advocates also heard remarks from Stephanie Parks, a top advisor to Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD). 

AGD advocates met with key Members of Congress and their staff to discuss the critical issues facing general dentists, such as workforce shortages, oral health literacy, and dental school loans. AGD urged Members of Congress to cosponsor and enact the following bills: 

• Resident Education Deferred Interest (REDI) Act, which would allow dental students to defer payments on their federal student loans until the completion of their residencies;
• Action for Dental Health Act, which would reauthorize grants to support dental health workforce initiatives in areas with dental health provider shortages; and
• Oral Health Literacy & Awareness Act, which would authorize a public education campaign to promote oral health literacy. 

Impact on General Dentistry: The AGD remains committed to advocating for policies that advance oral health and promote access to quality dental care. Following its successful Congressional fly-in, the AGD will continue working to drive meaningful legislative action in support of general dentists and their patients.