Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) have a multifactorial etiology, and a report in General Dentistry highlights clear aligner therapy (CAT) as a probable cofactor of TMD in a patient who developed masticatory pain during CAT. Dentists should be aware that CAT may exacerbate existing factors in some patients, leading to TMD symptoms.

On Nov. 24, 2024, Chethan Chetty, DDS, MAGD, was inducted as AGD president during the House of Delegates’ annual meeting in Chicago. This coming year, he plans to help guide the organization into the future by taking steps to increase grassroots engagement and promote membership while remaining open to organizational changes that could help modernize and improve operations.

The shortage of dental hygienists is one of the biggest challenges facing the dental industry. AGD Impact columnist Wesley Lyon acknowledges that the problem won’t solve itself overnight but suggests implementing three strategies to attract and maintain top talent.

There’s still time to register for AGD’s upcoming Virtual Advocacy Conference and earn up to 6.75 free CE credits. Gain vital insights into the legislative landscape impacting your practice, and learn how to shape important conversations at the state and federal levels.

‘Tis the season to make spirits bright by inviting your colleagues to join AGD. You’ll earn $50 in Referral Rewards when they join, and they’ll receive the rest of 2024 free when they join for 2025.

The December issue of AGD Impact is live! In it, you can learn all about AI chat bots and the ways they are currently being used in dentistry. You can also “meet” AGD’s new president, Dr. Chethan Chetty, with our annual president’s profile feature. Columns include Legal Matters, Financial Management, Ethics, Communications and Testing the Tools.

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’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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

Don’t wait any longer — registration for the hands-on course at AGD’s Chicago headquarters ends tomorrow, Nov. 12! This is your chance to gain invaluable knowledge on delivery and adjustment protocols that can significantly enhance your conservative temporomandibular disorder treatment skills. Plus, you’ll earn 6 hands-on CE credits.

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.

The American Dental Society of Anesthesiology recently informed AGD leaders that it is looking for a general dentist to join its board. AGD members are invited to apply.