Last Updated on 09/26/2424 at 9:09am
What are the Requirements to Achieve Fellowship in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)?
Table of Contents
- About AACD Fellowship
- Fellowship Protocols for Dentists & Laboratory Technicians
- Fellowship Mentorship
- Fellowship Application Process
- Maintaining Accredited Status
About AACD Fellowship
Fellowship in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is the highest level of achievement recognized by the organization. The status of “Accredited Fellow” is granted only after successful completion of all fellowship requirements. The purpose of this designation is to recognize continuous clinical excellence and a deep commitment to cosmetic dentistry as part of the AACD’s mission of education and excellence.
Fellowship Protocols for Dentists & Laboratory Technicians
Only dentists and laboratory technicians who are already AACD-accredited are eligible to apply for Fellowship. The accreditation ensures that applicants have met stringent standards of clinical excellence. Accredited professionals may submit their required cases, which are reviewed anonymously, to maintain impartiality throughout the examination process.
Fellowship Requirements:
- A completed Fellowship application must be submitted with a non-refundable fee of $600 (USD).
- Clinical case submissions include:
- 50 cases for dentists or
- 30 cases for laboratory technicians, each case representing a different patient.
- Submissions are evaluated by AACD’s Accreditation/Fellowship Committee. Slots for exams are limited and fill up quickly.
For details on the Accreditation process, check out the related FAQ on AACD Accreditation.
Fellowship Mentorship
Accredited dental professionals seeking Fellowship are encouraged to work with an AACD Fellowship Mentor. Mentors are certified Fellowship examiners who assist applicants in selecting appropriate cases for submission and provide valuable feedback on case presentation.
Mentorship is an important aspect of the Fellowship process, providing insights into case selection and preparation. However, applicants are responsible for assembling their finest cases as mentorship guidance does not guarantee success.
If you are seeking a mentor, contact Kim Hollenbeck at the AACD Executive Office or explore the AACD Dental DOJO Advanced Study Club for mentorship opportunities.
Fellowship Application Process
1. Written Examination
Candidates begin with the written examination, which tests foundational knowledge in cosmetic dentistry. This exam can be taken at the AACD Annual Scientific Session or at authorized testing centers.
2. Submission of Clinical Cases
Following the successful completion of the written examination, candidates must submit 50 clinical cases (for dentists) or 30 cases (for laboratory technicians). The cases are reviewed based on specific criteria such as diagnostic and clinical quality.
Clinical cases must be submitted by June 1 or November 1 each year. Late submissions will not be reviewed until the next cycle.
3. Oral Examination
The oral examination assesses the candidate's treatment planning and diagnostic skills. Candidates may be asked questions about their submitted cases and provided with a pre-selected case to demonstrate their ability to devise and explain a treatment plan.
Successful candidates will receive their Fellowship designation at the next Annual AACD Scientific Session.
Maintaining Accredited Status
Once Accredited Fellow status is achieved, members must maintain active and continuous membership in the AACD. Requirements include:
- Maintaining continuous hands-on clinical practice.
- Upholding ethical standards.
- Attending at least two of the three most recent Annual AACD Scientific Sessions.
Failure to meet these requirements may result in loss of “Active” Accredited Fellow status, with the opportunity to restore it by meeting the necessary criteria.
