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Dr. Otto Is a Leader in Both General and Pediatric Dentistry
While AGD is an organization for general dentists, it also boasts a number of specialist members. Alexandra Otto, DDS, FAGD, FACD, FPFA — a board-certified pediatric dentist and nationally recognized speaker and leader in the dental community — is one such member. She shared why membership in AGD and staying on top of her skills as a general practitioner are important to her as a pediatric dentist.
AGD Impact: What made you want to become a dentist, and what was your educational journey like?
Otto: I’ve always been drawn to healthcare, but dentistry stood out as this perfect intersection of science, artistry and human connection. I loved the idea of working with my hands and using technical skills in a way that was both creative and precise. But, more than anything, I was drawn to the ability to make a real and lasting impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s helping someone out of pain, restoring a smile or building trust over time, dentistry offers a unique opportunity to blend clinical care with deep, meaningful relationships. I earned my DDS from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Dentistry and completed a general practice residency (GPR) at Denver Health Medical Center, where I was exposed to a broad range of care in a fast-paced, highneeds environment. That experience gave me a solid foundation and confidence early in my career.
When did you decide to specialize in pediatric dentistry and why?
After my GPR, I practiced as a general dentist for five years. During that time, I found myself increasingly gravitating toward pediatric patients, and I ultimately worked in several pediatric-focused group practices as a general dentist. I loved the energy, the fast pace and the ability to be playful with my pediatric patients — finding ways to make each visit fun and enjoyable not just for the kids, but for their parents as well. That interest eventually led me to pursue specialty training through NYU Langone in Anchorage, Alaska. Through my program at the Alaska Native Medical Center, I exclusively treated Native Alaskan children, many of whom were among the highest caries-risk and most in need of dental care in the country.
My specialty training was eye-opening. I realized that pediatric dentistry isn’t just general dentistry for children — it’s a completely different philosophy of care. There’s a level of behavioral, emotional and developmental complexity that I honestly didn’t fully appreciate when I was a general practitioner. My training gave me a much deeper understanding of how to approach pediatric patients holistically — not just clinically.
Having had the unique opportunity to practice as a general dentist before specializing, I’m especially passionate about bridging the gap in understanding between general and pediatric dentistry. I love sharing these insights with general dentists, because once we recognize that pediatric care requires a distinct approach and mindset, we can collaborate more effectively to serve our youngest patients with greater empathy, intention and clinical success.
My residency experience also reinforced my passion for prevention and culturally responsive care, and I left feeling more committed than ever to improving access and experiences for children across all communities. That commitment inspired the creation of Kids Tooth Team Outreach, our 501(c)(3) nonprofit mobile dental program that has now provided over $500,000 in free dental care to underserved children. It’s one of the ways I’ve tried to turn passion into direct community impact.
When did you join AGD, and what has your membership and leadership experience been like?
I first connected with AGD leadership during dental school, when I served as the national vice president of the American Student Dental Association. Drs. Jeffrey M. Cole and Linda J. Edgar were on the AGD Board at the time, and they — and the entire leadership team — welcomed me with open arms. They made me feel like part of the AGD family and encouraged me to stay involved.
After graduating, I served on the national AGD Membership Council for four years. During that time, working toward my Fellowship became a major personal goal. It kept me motivated to prioritize continuing education (CE) and gave me a clear path for growth. I reached my 500 CE hours during my pediatric residency and took the Fellowship Exam in Alaska. I was honored to receive my FAGD the following year.
Once I became a specialist, I looked for ways to continue contributing to AGD. Speaking and lecturing for local, state and national groups felt like a natural fit. I’ve developed multiple MasterTrack programs to help general dentists earn pediatric CE credits toward their MAGDs, taught the pediatric portion of the Texas Fellowship Review Course, and presented national AGD webinars — including on one of my favorite topics, “Unleashing the Power of AI in Dentistry.”
One of the things I’ve truly loved is that AGD has continued to be a space where I can contribute as a specialist and share knowledge that benefits general dentists and their patients. Having practiced as a general practitioner myself, I remember not always feeling especially welcome in pediatric-specific CE spaces, which struck me as shortsighted. Every child deserves outstanding, patient-centered care. If we can help more providers deliver that — especially in rural areas without pediatric specialists — that’s a win for our patients and our profession.
As a pediatric dentist, why is participation in AGD important? How does it benefit you and other specialists?
AGD is an organization that champions lifelong learning and professional excellence, and that resonates with me deeply — regardless of specialty. Most kids are seen by general dentists, so supporting general practice providers with high-quality, practical pediatric education is one of the most impactful things I can do as a specialist.
I also firmly believe that, in order to be an exceptional pediatric dentist, you need to be a great general dentist first. Having that foundational training has shaped the and general dentists don’t exist in silos; we rely on each other to deliver comprehensive, compassionate care.” way I approach treatment planning and decision-making. It’s also why I believe it’s essential for pediatric dentists to stay informed about what’s happening in general dentistry. It keeps our perspective broad and our care collaborative.
Because of my background and continued education, I’m able to take on more advanced surgical and esthetic procedures — impacted mesiodens, surgical extractions and cosmetic cases that many pediatric dentists might refer out. I feel a strong responsibility to stay sharp clinically so I can provide comprehensive care and meet the needs of my patients and community.
AGD also keeps me connected to the broader dental landscape — what’s changing in policy, public health, education and technology. It helps me stay proactive and collaborative. Specialists and general dentists don’t exist in silos; we rely on each other to deliver comprehensive, compassionate care.
How do you juggle involvement in organized dentistry while running a private practice?
Balancing organized dentistry with private practice definitely takes intentionality — but, for me, it’s not an extra obligation; it’s a vital part of how I stay connected to the broader purpose of what we do.
I’m currently the incoming president of the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the incoming chair of the Texas Dental Association’s Council on Professions and Trends. Roles like these energize me. They give me a platform to advocate for children, families and providers — whether that’s influencing policy, elevating standards of care or addressing the real-world trends that are reshaping our profession.
I truly believe that when clinicians get involved beyond the walls of their practice, it makes the profession stronger. Whether it’s shaping legislation, guiding CE, or helping dentists at every career stage feel seen and supported, organized dentistry gives us the tools to lead — and to protect the future of patient-centered care. That same spirit of collaboration is what led my husband, Tim, and me to create Alcan Dental Cooperative, a practice partnership organization that supports pediatric dentists in growing successful, mission-driven practices with shared values and clinical integrity.
What advice do you have for new dentists and AGD members who want to get involved?
You don’t have to wait until you feel “ready.” Start by showing up — attend a local event, reach out to a mentor, or take a course that excites you. AGD is filled with people who care deeply about this profession and are eager to welcome you in. Set a goal — like obtaining your Fellowship or finding a way to contribute through education or leadership — and take that first step. The relationships and opportunities that follow will shape your career in ways you can’t even imagine.
