AGD Announces its 2026 '10 Dentists to Watch'

Annual recognition highlights emerging leaders shaping the future of general dentistry

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:18pm

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A minimalist design in the style of Keith Haring, with a glowing neon outline of a dental drill or other dental tool against a dark background, conceptually representing the innovative and energetic spirit of the next generation of general dentists.The AGD's annual '10 Dentists to Watch' program highlights the emerging leaders shaping the future of general dentistry through their clinical excellence and community-focused approach.NYC Today

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) has announced its 2026 '10 Dentists to Watch,' an annual recognition that highlights emerging leaders whose work is shaping the future of general dentistry. The selected dentists were recognized for their clinical excellence, commitment to community care, innovative approaches to patient treatment, and contributions to advancing the profession.

Why it matters

This recognition program showcases the next generation of general dentists who are making a meaningful impact in their communities and the broader dental industry. By highlighting these rising stars, the AGD aims to inspire and encourage other dentists to follow in their footsteps, ultimately improving oral health outcomes and advancing the field of general dentistry.

The details

The 10 dentists recognized this year represent a diverse cross-section of clinicians from across the country. They deliver comprehensive care, serve as mentors, and lead in areas such as public health, military dentistry, and private practice. Their stories reflect dedication, resilience, and a shared passion for improving oral health and training the next generation of general dentists.

  • The AGD announced its 2026 '10 Dentists to Watch' in the January issue of AGD Impact.

The players

Soham Apte

Dr. Apte is the sole full-time dentist at a federally qualified health center in Beloit, Wisconsin, where he provides essential care to one of the state's most underserved regions. He delivers comprehensive care ranging from extractions to dentures and serves as an extramural adjunct clinical professor at the University of Illinois College of Dentistry, mentoring future dentists and encouraging careers in community health.

Akanksha Baheti

Dr. Baheti brings a global foundation to aesthetic and restorative dentistry, shaped by training and practice in both India and the United States. An Honorary Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy and recipient of the 2025 Global Excellence Award in Esthetic Dentistry, she pairs technical innovation with community-focused oral health education.

Maritza Flores

Dr. Flores is recognized for her leadership in clinical practice, public health, and dental education. Her experience across public and private settings enables her to bridge access gaps and mentor emerging dentists. She also volunteers with various community outreach and public service organizations.

Yelisey Gurzhuy

Dr. Gurzhuy has been actively involved in organized dentistry during his student years and continues to champion lifelong learning and professional growth for young dentists as the president-elect of Oregon AGD. His passion for continuing education guides both his practice philosophy and his leadership approach.

Sarah Hardin

Dr. Hardin serves as the founding chair of clinical sciences at Lyon College School of Dental Medicine, Arkansas' first dental school, where she is helping build a curriculum designed to expand both dental education and access to care.

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The takeaway

The 2026 '10 Dentists to Watch' recognition program showcases the next generation of general dentists who are making a meaningful impact in their communities and the broader dental industry. By highlighting these rising stars, the AGD aims to inspire and encourage other dentists to follow in their footsteps, ultimately improving oral health outcomes and advancing the field of general dentistry.