President’s Message
As periodontists, we are uniquely trained to diagnose and treat diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, yet our role extends far beyond surgical and technical expertise. At the core of our specialty is the management of inflammation and the preservation of oral health as a vital component of overall systemic health. With more than fifty inflammatory systemic diseases now linked to periodontal disease, periodontists are well positioned to lead dentistry in navigating the oral-systemic connection and to collaborate with medical colleagues in advancing whole-patient care.
While scientific evidence guides our practice, our patients experience these conditions on a deeply personal level. Many arrive with anxiety, uncertainty, or fear about their diagnosis or treatment. Providing exceptional care therefore requires not only clinical excellence, but also the ability to recognize and respond to the emotional dimensions of healthcare. In this issue, several of our colleagues share how they address patient anxiety and incorporate empathy and trauma-informed approaches into daily practice, reminding us that trust, compassion, and communication are as essential as technical mastery.
Our profession is also navigating evolving healthcare dynamics, shifts in organized dentistry, and new opportunities for collaboration. The launch of the ADA’s Task Force on Specialty Engagement marks an important moment for advocacy and representation. Read more in the Advocating for Perio section. Through initiatives highlighted in this issue, including leadership and volunteer engagement, as well as education and research, the Academy continues to ensure that periodontics maintains a strong, unified voice.
We look forward with excitement to the 2026 Annual Meeting in Seattle, held in collaboration with the Japanese Academy of Clinical Periodontology and the Japanese Society of Periodontology. This global partnership underscores the strength of our specialty and our shared commitment to advancing science and patient care. Read more in the International Periodontics section and be sure to plan your travel early to join colleagues from around the world in Seattle this fall. Details on travel and what awaits in the city can be found in the Ways to Attend the Annual Meeting and Scenic Seattle sections.
Our Academy thrives because of the dedication of its members, whether advancing research, mentoring residents, taking on leadership and volunteer roles, or participating in SPARK events, Saving Teeth webinars, Saving Teeth Competition, Balint Orban Memorial Competition, and Research Forum and Poster Session Competition. From residents beginning their journey to seasoned clinicians, every member’s involvement strengthens us all.
In uncertain times, one constant remains: our commitment to patients and to one another. By leading with professionalism, compassion, and fellowship, we ensure that our specialty continues to flourish.
Thank you for all that you do for your patients, your communities, and our Academy. Keep probing science.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ana Becil Giglio
President
American Academy of Periodontology
As periodontists, we are uniquely trained to diagnose and treat diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, yet our role extends far beyond surgical and technical expertise. At the core of our specialty is the management of inflammation and the preservation of oral health as a vital component of overall systemic health. With more than fifty inflammatory systemic diseases now linked to periodontal disease, periodontists are well positioned to lead dentistry in navigating the oral-systemic connection and to collaborate with medical colleagues in advancing whole-patient care.
While scientific evidence guides our practice, our patients experience these conditions on a deeply personal level. Many arrive with anxiety, uncertainty, or fear about their diagnosis or treatment. Providing exceptional care therefore requires not only clinical excellence, but also the ability to recognize and respond to the emotional dimensions of healthcare. In this issue, several of our colleagues share how they address patient anxiety and incorporate empathy and trauma-informed approaches into daily practice, reminding us that trust, compassion, and communication are as essential as technical mastery.
Our profession is also navigating evolving healthcare dynamics, shifts in organized dentistry, and new opportunities for collaboration. The launch of the ADA’s Task Force on Specialty Engagement marks an important moment for advocacy and representation. Read more in the Advocating for Perio section. Through initiatives highlighted in this issue, including leadership and volunteer engagement, as well as education and research, the Academy continues to ensure that periodontics maintains a strong, unified voice.
We look forward with excitement to the 2026 Annual Meeting in Seattle, held in collaboration with the Japanese Academy of Clinical Periodontology and the Japanese Society of Periodontology. This global partnership underscores the strength of our specialty and our shared commitment to advancing science and patient care. Read more in the International Periodontics section and be sure to plan your travel early to join colleagues from around the world in Seattle this fall. Details on travel and what awaits in the city can be found in the Ways to Attend the Annual Meeting and Scenic Seattle sections.
Our Academy thrives because of the dedication of its members, whether advancing research, mentoring residents, taking on leadership and volunteer roles, or participating in SPARK events, Saving Teeth webinars, Saving Teeth Competition, Balint Orban Memorial Competition, and Research Forum and Poster Session Competition. From residents beginning their journey to seasoned clinicians, every member’s involvement strengthens us all.
In uncertain times, one constant remains: our commitment to patients and to one another. By leading with professionalism, compassion, and fellowship, we ensure that our specialty continues to flourish.
Thank you for all that you do for your patients, your communities, and our Academy. Keep probing science.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ana Becil Giglio
President
American Academy of Periodontology