AAPD Councils & Committees

• Evidence-Based Dentistry Committee

  The Evidence-Based Dentistry (EBD) Committee promotes optimal pediatric oral health by providing oversight and management of the clinical practice guideline development process. Learn more on the AAPD EBD web page. 

  Current Chair
  Dr. Tim Wright

  Past Chairs
  Dr. Anupama Tate (2017-2018) 
  Dr. Donald Chi (2013-2017) 

• Safety & Quality Improvement Committee

  The Safety & Quality Improvement Committee supports members in their efforts to provide the safest and highest quality care for their patients. The committee stresses the importance of cultivating a culture of safety and quality improvement for both patients and teams.

  Chair: Dr. Joe Castellano

  Learn more on the AAPD Safety & Quality Improvement Committee web page. 

• Council on Clinical Affairs

  The Council on Clinical Affairs (CCA) maintains The Reference Manual of Pediatric Dentistry and submits recommendations for revision through the Board of Trustees.

  Current Chair
  Chair: Dr. Erica Caffrey

  Past Chairs
  Dr. Thomas Stark (2021-2024) 
  Dr. Randall Lout (2018-2021) 
  Dr. Edward Rick (2015-2018) 
  Dr. Sara Filstrup (2012-2015) 
  Dr. Joe Castellano (2009-2012) 
  Dr. Robert Delarosa (2008-2009) 
  Dr. Richard Chaet (2005-2008) 
  Dr. Jenny Ison Stigers (2003-2005)

• Council on Scientific Affairs

  The Council on Scientific Affairs (CSA) ensures that AAPD’s policies, guidelines, and programs are evidence-based and backed by the best available science. CSA also maintains the AAPD Research Agenda. 

  Chair: Dr. Jessica Webb

• Committee on Dental Insurance and Coding

  The Committee on Dental Insurance & Coding (CDIC), formerly the Committee on Dental Benefits & Programs, develops practical resources and hosts educational opportunities for members on coding updates, billing considerations, and other changes to dental benefits and insurance. Learn more on the AAPD Insurance & Coding Needs web page.

  Current Chair
  Dr. Jim Nickman

  Past Chair
  Dr. Paul Reggiardo (2015-2019)

• Committee on Sedation and Anesthesia

  The Committee on Sedation and Anesthesia reviews AAPD guidelines and policies on sedation and anesthesia for scientific and clinical accuracy and makes recommendations for updates. The Committee also maintains information on state statutes and regulations concerning the administration of sedation and general anesthesia in the dental office. Learn more on the AAPD Sedation & Anesthesia web page.

  Current Chair
  Dr. Scott Papineau

  Past Chairs
  Dr. Sarat Thikkurissy (2022-2026, 2012-2016)
  Dr. Travis Nelson (2019-2022) 
  Dr. John Liu (2016-2019) 
  Dr. Charles Post (2009-2012) 
  Dr. Michael Webb (2008-2009) 
  Dr. Robert Primosch (2007-2008) 
  Dr. David Rothman (2004-2007)

• Committee on Special Health Care Needs

  The Committee on Special Health Care Needs facilitates education and exposure to clinical experience in the care of patients with special needs for pre-doctoral and post-doctoral students and practicing general and pediatric dentists. Learn more on the AAPD Inclusive Dentistry web page.

  Current Chair
  Dr. Glenn Canares

  Past Chairs 
  Dr. Elizabeth Gosnell (2022-2024, 2020-2021) 
  Dr. Mitali Patel (2021-2022) 
  Dr. Jessica Webb (2015-2020) 
  Dr. Edward Rick (2011-2015) 
  Dr. Paul Casamassimo (2008-2011) 

• Pediatric Dental Medicaid and CHIP Advisory Committee

  The Pediatric Dental Medicaid and CHIP Advisory Committee communicates with state Medicaid and CHIP officials to advocate for children’s oral health and partners to strengthen public dental programs. Check out more on the AAPD Medicaid & CHIP web page.

  Current Chair
  Dr. Scott Cashion

  Past Chair 
  Dr. Ross Wezmar (2000-2012)