ATLANTA — Dr. Peter Shatz, a periodontist based in the greater Atlanta area, will serve as the 157th president of the Georgia Dental Association (GDA) in 2026. In his new role, he plans to focus on long-term association growth, sustainable membership, and preparing dentists for innovation and change.
“It is an honor to serve our members and help ignite the future of the GDA,” Dr. Shatz said. “Georgia’s dentists are deeply committed to advancing oral health and strengthening the profession, and I look forward to working alongside our leadership team to support that mission.”
A member of both the GDA and the American Dental Association (ADA) for 30 years, Dr. Shatz has held multiple leadership positions at the national, state, and local levels. His experience includes serving as GDA president-elect, president of the Northwestern District Dental Society, and chairman of Georgia’s ADA Delegation.
Nationally, he has served on several ADA councils and committees, including the Council on Dental Education and Licensure, and was general chair of SmileCon, the ADA’s flagship annual conference.
Dr. Shatz has delivered over 100 presentations at dental meetings, corporate events, and academic institutions and has authored multiple textbooks and textbook chapters.
His professional affiliations include the ADA, GDA, American Academy of Periodontology, Hinman Dental Society, Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the International College of Dentists.
Dr. Shatz earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from McGill University, a certificate in periodontics from Louisiana State University, and an MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport.
He succeeds Dr. Amber Lawson, who will serve as immediate past president. Other 2026 GDA officers elected by the House of Delegates 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