Product Evaluation

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY

The AACD Experience

The AACD and its members are dedicated to advancing excellence in cosmetic dentistry

When members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) were asked why they chose to join this organization, many had similar responses—to provide quality esthetic dentistry, for the camaraderie and professionalism, to receive education on cutting-edge techniques and technologies, and to be surrounded by an inspiring community of like-minded dentists.

“The AACD community is my family,” said Dr. Alexandra Arnold, a 5-year member who explained, “Everyone has the same mission: to provide world-class dentistry and responsible esthetics to their patients in the best way they know how. I cannot think of a more expert, positive-influencing group.”

As an organization that’s dedicated to excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry, the AACD encourages high standards of ethical conduct and responsible patient care. According to those who participated in this DPS evaluation, AACD members share an unrivaled sense of pride, commitment, community, and professionalism.

AACD Membership and Accreditation

Membership in the AACD includes many opportunities for education, networking, and professional development. In the 9 years since he joined the AACD, Nathaniel Hill, DDS, said his career has advanced rapidly because of the education, skill development, and mentorship that he gained from being a member.

Many dental professionals choose to pursue AACD Accreditation, a highly recognized and respected cosmetic dentistry credentialing program. “Achieving AACD Accreditation is one of the most valuable educational experiences in my career,” shared Dr. W. Johnston Rowe, Jr., who said the program helped him grow both as a person and a dentist through critical self-evaluation. “It was very difficult, but extremely rewarding.” After years of working to become an Accredited

Fellow, Dr. Marshall Hanson said the AACD has shown him new possibilities and provided him with a framework and structure to gain valuable clinical skills. He appreciates “the group’s high standard for responsible esthetics and like-minded, passionate peers.”

Educational Opportunities and Annual Session

“The learning opportunities provided by the AACD are plenty to meet today’s demands,” said Dr. Mohan Bhuvaneswaran, an Accredited Member who named the Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry, the AACD Virtual Campus, and DentalXP as some of his favorite resources. He also suggested that the AACD should become more visible on social media to increase awareness and expand membership.

The AACD’s most anticipated event is the Annual Scientific Session, a conference held in April each year, which features leading educators and well-organized networking events. When attending her first annual session years ago, Dr. Angela Ferrari said her “eyes were opened to a new level of technique, precision, and results for cosmetic dentistry.” She believes the AACD has the best annual session for cosmetic dentistry, explaining, “The amount and caliber of the speakers, the amazing locations and venues, and the amount of hands-on courses available to members is fantastic.”

Calling it a “great source for education and clinical improvement,” Dr. Hanson said the Annual Scientific Session is the only CE for which he travels each year. Dr. Hill likes the “cutting-edge education with the best headline speakers all in one place” but said the “hands-on courses are limited.” Dr. Arnold said she would love to see more events throughout the year. “One annual session is not enough!”

Professional Relationships

Being a part of the AACD is a “great opportunity to get to know others who share a passion for beautiful, quality dentistry,” noted Dr. Rowe, who now mentors dentists and lab technicians aspiring to become Accredited members. “Being a member has improved the quality of my dentistry and the enjoyment of my career,” Dr. Brian Gilbert noted. “I have met so many high-energy, motivated practitioners who love dentistry and enjoy their work—it has helped me grow as a practitioner.”

“I love the community of like-minded dentists who support and champion one another to be their best,” shared Dr. Arnold. “This comes in a pure collegial environment without jealousy or animosity.” Dr. Ferrari said, “[The group] inspires me to keep striving to be the best dentist I can be, self-critique my work, and never stop learning!”

"I love the community of like-minded dentists who support and champion one another to be their best."
-Alexandra Arnold, DMD; Boston, MA

Overall Satisfaction

By committing to the AACD, members are essentially investing in the future of their careers and the future of cosmetic dentistry. “The AACD has made my career fun, meaningful, artistic, fulfilling, and lifelong,” Dr. Arnold conveyed. “When I read the AACD journal and go to the annual meeting, I am always rejuvenated with creativity and energy toward giving my patients the best dentistry possible,” Dr. Ferrari concluded. “I always want to move forward, and AACD is the key.”

Takeaways

•Dedicated to excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry
•Encourages high standards of ethical conduct and responsible patient care
•An AACD membership includes opportunities for education, networking, Accreditation, and professional development
•AACD Accreditation is a highly recognized cosmetic dentistry credentialing program
•Annual Scientific Session features leading educators and well-organized networking events
•Offers CE opportunities, mentoring programs, and lifetime friendships