#United States #Atlanta #oral health #Georgia Dental Association #Dr. Peter Shatz

The Georgia Dental Association Introduces New Officers for 2026

The Georgia Dental Association (GDA) has officially announced its officers for the year 2026, taking their positions starting January 1. This professional body represents over 3,400 dental professionals across Georgia, and the new leadership team is set to navigate the association toward innovative practices and member growth.

Leadership Overview

Among the newly appointed leaders, Dr. Peter Shatz, a prominent periodontist based in the greater Atlanta region, has taken on the role of the GDA's 157th president. With an impressive career spanning over three decades, Dr. Shatz aims to position the GDA for sustained excellence in oral health advocacy and the profession's evolution.

"It is an honor to serve our members and to help ignite the future of the GDA," stated Dr. Shatz. He emphasizes that dentists in Georgia are dedicated to promoting oral health and enhancing their profession. Dr. Shatz looks forward to collaborating with his leadership team to support this mission.

Dr. Shatz's extensive qualifications are supported by his active participation in the GDA and the American Dental Association (ADA) for 30 years. He has held various influential positions, including President-Elect of the GDA and the presidency of the Northwestern District Dental Society. Additionally, he has led Georgia's ADA delegation and contributed to multiple councils and committees within the ADA, demonstrating his commitment to dental education and licensure.

Professional Achievements

A sought-after speaker in the dental community, Dr. Shatz has delivered over 100 presentations across numerous dental meetings, corporate events, and educational institutions. He has also authored multiple textbooks and contributed chapters to leading dental literature, underscoring his expertise in the field.

His professional affiliations showcase his dedication, including memberships in the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, and the American Academy of Periodontology, to name a few. Dr. Shatz earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from McGill University, a Certificate in Periodontics from Louisiana State University, and an MBA from Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

Supporting Team Members

In addition to Dr. Shatz, several officers were elected by the House of Delegates to support the GDA's mission in 2026. These include:

• - President-Elect: Dr. Erik Wells
• - Vice President: Dr. Hank Cook
• - Secretary/Treasurer: Dr. Ryan Vaughn
• - Editor: Dr. Rhoda Sword
• - Speaker of the House: Dr. Tom Jagor

These leaders bring diverse experiences and backgrounds, working collectively to enhance the dental profession's efforts and strategies within Georgia.

About the Georgia Dental Association

The GDA has long established itself as a leading voice for the advancement of dentistry in Georgia. By fostering a constructive and collaborative atmosphere for dentists across the state, GDA aims to equip its members with essential resources, high-quality education, and advocacy in dental healthcare. Their mission underscores a commitment to enhancing the community's health through accessible oral healthcare services.

With a passionate leadership team now in place, the Georgia Dental Association is poised for a promising future, dedicated to innovation and the betterment of oral health for all Georgians.