Abstract
The dental students who graduated in 2024 began their professional careers with the expectation that they will likely practice for the next 40 years, extending their careers through 2064. Based on what we know today, can we imagine the changes that will occur during this time? In just the past few years, we have witnessed significant advancements in digital dentistry, the introduction of artificial intelligence and robotics, the rise of private equity and corporate dentistry, remarkable demographic shifts, and increasing societal demands on the provision of health care. In my opinion, these changes will continue to evolve with increasing speed and breadth. Most will require careful consideration of the American College of Dentists’ key pillars: ethics, professionalism, leadership, and excellence. These timeless principles serve as a compass for charting the evolving dental landscape.
Recommended Citation
Valachovic, Richard W. DMD, MPH, FACD
(2025)
"Forging the Future: Cultivating Leaders for the Evolving Dental Profession at New York University,"
Journal of the American College of Dentists: Vol. 91:
No.
2, Article 7.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/jacd/vol91/iss2/7