The 42nd Annual American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) Scientific Session, held April 16–18, 2026, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa in Aventura, Florida, delivered an unforgettable experience for attendees from around the world. Over three dynamic days, dental professionals gathered to learn, connect, and celebrate the future of cosmetic dentistry.
A World-Class Educational Experience
AACD 2026 once again set the standard for continuing education, offering an expansive lineup of expert-led lectures, hands-on workshops, and headliner Dr. Miguel Stanley's presentation "Beyond Beauty: The Evolution of Modern Cosmetic Dentistry." Attendees explored the latest advancements in esthetic and restorative dentistry from minimally invasive techniques and digital workflows to regenerative treatments and smile design strategies.
The return of the Master Esthetic Lecture Series brought together leading voices in dentistry to share forward-thinking insights on topics like aging and smile design, adhesive dentistry, and emerging biologic therapies. These sessions reinforced AACD’s commitment to providing cutting-edge, evidence-based education that supports clinicians at every stage of their careers.
Hands-on workshops offered participants the opportunity to translate knowledge into practice, with immersive sessions focused on real-world techniques, materials, and workflows, ensuring attendees left with actionable skills they could immediately implement.
Innovation on Display in the Exhibit Hall
The exhibit hall served as a vibrant hub of discovery, where attendees engaged with industry leaders and explored the latest products, technologies, and services shaping the future of cosmetic dentistry. From digital tools to advanced materials, the exhibit experience provided valuable insight into innovations designed to enhance patient outcomes and streamline practice efficiency.
Unforgettable Social Events & Networking Opportunities
Beyond the classroom, AACD 2026 delivered memorable social experiences that fostered connection and community. Signature events like the Havana Nights Welcome Reception brought energy, color, and celebration to the conference, while attendees enjoyed opportunities to network with peers, mentors, and industry leaders in a relaxed and engaging environment.
The Celebration of Excellence Awards Dinner, themed “The Art of Achievement,” was a standout moment honoring the accomplishments of AACD members who have achieved AACD Accredited and Accredited Fellow status, recognizing excellence across the Academy. The evening seamlessly blended recognition, celebration, and connection, culminating in a lively after-party that brought attendees together in true AACD spirit.
Celebrating Excellence
The following dental professionals were celebrated at the 2026 Celebration of Excellence for achieving Accredited and Accredited Fellow status, an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects a rigorous, multi-phase evaluation process, a commitment to clinical excellence, and a dedication to upholding the highest standards in cosmetic dentistry.
AACD Accredited Class of 2026:
● Dane M. Avondoglio, DMD, AAACD
● Noemi Cruz-Orcutt, DDS, AAACD
● Lance D. Dillon, DMD, AAACD
● Lilya Horowitz, DDS, AAACD
● Khushboo Maroo, BDS, AAACD
● Martin J. Matovich, DMD, AAACD
● James F. Raymond, DMD, AAACD
● Connie Tse-Wallerstein, DDS, AAACD
● Charles A. Ward Jr., DDS, AAACD
● Nicole D. Watson, DDS, AAACD
● David P. Wickness, DMD, AAACD
● Nancy Zeis, DDS, AAACD
New AACD Accredited Fellows:
● Mohan Bhuvaneswaran, MDS, FAACD
● Diana Tadros, DDS, FAACD
● Petteri Viljakainen, DDS, FAACD
● W. Johnston Rowe Jr., DDS, FAACD
● Keerti Sahasrabudhe, DDS, FAACD
AACD proudly recognizes the recipients of the 2026 Evy Awards, honoring individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the Academy and the profession.
Evy Award Recipients:
● Adamo N. Notarantonio, DDS, FAACD | Excellence in Cosmetic Dentistry Education Award
● Chet Spivey | Lifetime Achievement Award
● Edward Lowe, DMD, AAACD | Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry Award
● Erik R. Haupt, FAACD | Outstanding Service and Mentoring Award
● Les Latner, DDS, AAACD | Humanitarian Award
Zachary S. Sisler, DDS, AAACD | Dr. Nathaniel D. Hill Rising Star Award
Additionally, the 2026 President’s Awards were presented to the following individuals recognizing their outstanding leadership, service, and meaningful contributions to advancing the mission and impact of the Academy.
2026 President's Awards Recipients:
● Bradley J. Olson, DDS, FAACD, FAGD
● Nelson A. Rego, CDT, AAACD
Supporting the Accreditation Journey
AACD 2026 also provided robust support for those pursuing Accreditation, offering specialized courses, workshops, the Accreditation written exam, and mentoring opportunities. Attendees engaged directly with Accredited professionals, gaining valuable guidance and insight into advancing their clinical expertise and achieving this prestigious credential.
Relive the Experience
From inspiring lectures to unforgettable celebrations, AACD 2026 was filled with moments worth remembering. Browse the full photo album and find your favorite memories here.
Join us Next Year at AACD 2027
We hope to see you next year in Hollywood, FL, April 1–3, as we continue to shape what’s next.
