by Jack Ringer, DDS
For more on this topic, go to www.dentaleconomics.com and search using the following key words: American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Annual Scientific Session, Dr. Jack Ringer.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2009 as an organization devoted to advancing, educating, and promoting excellence in cosmetic dentistry.
The AACD's ongoing mission to assist dentists in providing quality cosmetic care for patients is achieved through a process of educational programs presented by notable educators in the field of cosmetic dentistry, along with networking with the industry's leading manufacturers.
As the world's largest cosmetic dentistry organization with more than 8,000 members worldwide, the AACD also engages in various outreach programs to educate the public about the importance of quality cosmetic dentistry.
This philosophy of helping the dental community has been a focus of AACD efforts since the organization's inception.
Each year, the AACD presents a comprehensive scientific session in cosmetic dentistry, bringing together the dental community for learning and fellowship.
The meeting, which is held in a different location annually in the United States or Canada, attracts thousands of attendees and some of the world's most notable educators in cosmetic dentistry.
The meeting comprises educational programs, hands-on workshops, manufacturer displays, and a variety of social engagements. These are designed to create an atmosphere of sharing, helping, and camaraderie.
Technology is an important AACD focus. In keeping up with the advances, the AACD has created avenues for using technology, as well as a comprehensive and interactive Web site (www.aacd.com) to better communicate and educate its members. The two main vehicles for this communication, LISTSERV® and eLearning, have been well received.
In its 25th year, the AACD has created effective ways for dental professionals to help their peers. What makes the AACD a unique organization, I think, is its multidimensional approach to helping those in need, whether it be fellow dentists, manufacturers, laboratory technicians, or the public.
The AACD's membership possesses a strong sense of camaraderie, community, and compassion. These attributes stem from a belief that attaining beautiful and predictable esthetics requires building relationships among the membership and community.
The AACD reaches out to the public with information about cosmetic dentistry, and helps with locating highly trained cosmetic dentists. The AACD's Web site provides information that helps patients become more informed consumers. The site also answers many questions people have about cosmetic dentistry.
As with dental health, a sense of self-worth and beauty are not exclusive to one's socioeconomic status. Thus, another mission of the AACD has been providing quality cosmetic dentistry to those less fortunate through charitable foundations such as Give Back A Smile. The GBAS program provides needed functional and cosmetic dental therapy to women who have been victims of domestic abuse.
AACD participating dentists and laboratory technicians provide their services at no charge to patients. For these dentists and technicians, their only form of compensation is the satisfaction of helping those in need and giving back to those less fortunate.
Information about the AACD's charitable foundations, and any area related to cosmetic dentistry, can be found at the academy's Web site or by contacting the AACD headquarters at (800) 543-9220.
The AACD's mission is to support and promote the philosophies discussed in this article. Therefore, it is no wonder that its membership comprises some of the world's most highly trained and caring dentists.
Jack Ringer, DDS, is an Accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and serves on the academy's board of directors. Visit his Web site at www.dentalcosmetics.com or reach him via e-mail at [email protected].
