News from the Capitol

The Legislative Insider is published during the Legislative Session by the Georgia Dental Association. It contains updates on the activities of GDA's Government Affairs team as well as information about bills relevant to dentists and patient care.

Jul 17, 2025

How to Lower the Total Cost of Your Student Loans

Managing student loan debt is a major concern for many dentists, and choosing the right repayment strategy can lead to significant savings over time. Whether through forgiveness programs, extra payments, refinancing, or automatic payment discounts, understanding your options is key to minimizing total loan costs.

Jun 26, 2025

Advancements in Dentistry: AI, Science, and Technology

Recent advancements in dentistry, including the integration of artificial intelligence, cutting-edge technology, and regenerative sciences, are transforming patient care by improving efficiency, precision, and outcomes. While these innovations present new challenges and require adaptation from providers and patients alike, they hold the potential to revolutionize the future of oral health.

Jun 24, 2025

The Big Question: Startup or Acquisition?

Owning a dental practice offers autonomy, financial potential, and the ability to build a lasting legacy, but it also comes with challenges that require planning and the right support team. Whether starting from scratch or acquiring an existing practice, aligning your choice with your personal and professional goals is key to long-term success.

Jun 17, 2025

What the Latest Tax Bill Could Mean for You and Your Practice

The U.S. House recently passed a major tax bill that could impact income taxes, deductions, estate planning, and business strategies for dental professionals. A new UBS article breaks down what practice owners need to know as the legislation heads to the Senate.

Jun 9, 2025

Georgia Dental Association Supports Opening of Center for IDD Care

The Georgia Dental Association celebrates the opening of a new Macon clinic for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, created in partnership with Mercer University and the Dental College of Georgia. The clinic will expand access to care while training future healthcare providers.

May 21, 2025

Crashing the Biofilm Party: Understanding the Path to Safe Dental Unit Waterlines

Dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) can harbor harmful bacteria if not properly maintained, posing serious health risks to patients, including documented outbreaks. Once overlooked, DUWL safety is now a critical infection control focus, with protocols like shocking, treating, and testing waterlines increasingly mandated, including new continuing education requirements in Georgia.

May 13, 2025

Preparing Patients for the Cost of Dentistry

Many patients delay needed dental care due to concerns about cost and a lack of understanding around dental expenses and insurance benefits. This article highlights key insights from the 2023 Synchrony Dental Lifetime of Care study and offers practical ways dental teams can help patients better prepare for and manage the cost of care.

Apr 22, 2025

Community Water Fluoridation is Still a Good Idea!

Community water fluoridation is a safe, effective, and cost-saving public health measure inspired by natural fluoride levels that significantly reduces dental caries and promotes oral health equity.

Apr 16, 2025

ADA Lobby Day 2025

From March 30 to April 1, 2025, Georgia Dental Association representatives joined dentists nationwide in Washington, D.C. for the ADA Dentist and Student Lobby Day, advocating for key issues such as dental student debt relief, insurance reform, and water fluoridation.

Apr 11, 2025

Advocating for the Future of Dentistry as a D1

As a first-year dental student and future Army dentist, Tate Allen had the unforgettable opportunity to represent the Dental College of Georgia at ADA Lobby Day in Washington, D.C.