AAE Advocacy Engages the Next Generation at APICES 

AAE Advocacy was on the ground at APICES, held August 14–15 in St. Louis, Missouri, connecting with endodontic residents and highlighting the important role advocacy plays in shaping the future of the specialty. 

Throughout the meeting, residents had the opportunity to connect directly with AAE Advocacy staff, learn more about the Association’s federal advocacy priorities, and take action in support of the Resident Education Deferred Interest (REDI) Act. AAE Advocacy staff engaged with approximately one-quarter of the residents in attendance, demonstrating strong interest among the next generation of endodontists in learning more about the issues affecting their profession and how they can make their voices heard. The bipartisan REDI Act would allow dental residents to defer federal student loan payments during residency without interest accruing during that period, helping reduce the financial burden many residents face while completing advanced specialty training. AAE has continued to support the REDI Act as part of its broader efforts to strengthen the dental workforce and support the next generation of endodontists. 

APICES also provided an important opportunity to introduce residents to grassroots advocacy early in their professional careers. Grassroots advocacy is a critical part of AAE’s overall advocacy strategy because lawmakers need to hear directly from the individuals who are affected by the policies they consider. While AAE staff can provide lawmakers with policy expertise and information, messages from practicing endodontists, residents, and other constituents help put a personal face on those issues and demonstrate their real-world impact. 

By participating in grassroots campaigns, AAE members can help educate elected officials about the challenges facing the specialty, reinforce the importance of policies that support patient access to high-quality endodontic care, and ensure that the voice of endodontists is represented in policy discussions. Even a simple message to a Member of Congress can help build awareness and strengthen the Association’s ability to advocate effectively on behalf of the specialty. 

Engaging residents at APICES is also an important investment in AAE’s long-term advocacy efforts. Residents represent the future of endodontics, and introducing them to advocacy now helps build a stronger, more informed network of members who are prepared to participate when important state and federal issues arise. AAE’s goal is to continue growing this nationwide grassroots network so that members can be mobilized quickly and effectively in support of legislation affecting endodontists and their patients. 

The enthusiasm and participation from residents in St. Louis reinforced an important message: advocacy is most effective when endodontists at every stage of their careers are informed, engaged, and willing to make their voices heard.