What are the Requirements to Achieve Accreditation in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)?

Table of Contents

• About AACD Accreditation
• The Accreditation Process
  • 1. Written Examination
  • 2. Clinical Case Submissions
  • 3. Oral Examination
• Maintaining Accredited Status

About AACD Accreditation

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) accreditation is a prestigious credential that recognizes the highest level of clinical excellence in cosmetic dentistry. The accreditation process, managed by the American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry (ABCD), is designed to set standards for dental professionals committed to achieving excellence.

The Accreditation Process

The AACD Accreditation process is divided into three parts: a written examination, clinical case submissions, and an oral examination. Each part must be completed sequentially, and candidates must pass all stages within five years of passing the written examination.

1. Written Examination

The written examination tests a dentist’s knowledge in various aspects of cosmetic dentistry, including adhesion, smile design, materials, and occlusion. The exam is a multiple-choice format, available at the AACD Annual Scientific Session or select testing centers.

Key subjects covered in the exam include:

• Smile Design
• Adhesion
• Porcelain/Resin Restorations
• Occlusion
• Bridges and Pontics
• Implants
• Photography

2. Clinical Case Submissions

Upon passing the written examination, candidates must submit five clinical cases demonstrating excellence across a range of cosmetic dental treatments. Each case is thoroughly evaluated based on AACD guidelines.

The five required case types are:

• Six or more indirect restorations (upper incisors and canines)
• One or two indirect restorations (upper incisors)
• Tooth replacement (implant or laboratory-fabricated bridge)
• Class IV direct resin restoration
• Six or more direct resin veneers

Submissions must include detailed photographic documentation to meet AACD standards.

3. Oral Examination

The oral examination provides an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their treatment planning and diagnostic skills. Candidates must be prepared to discuss their submitted cases, as well as a pre-selected case provided by the examiners.

The oral exam marks the final step in the accreditation process, and successful candidates are recognized as AACD Accredited professionals.

Maintaining Accredited Status

Once accreditation is achieved, dental professionals must maintain their “Active” status by adhering to specific AACD requirements, including:

• Maintaining continuous AACD membership
• Upholding ethical standards
• Attending at least two of the three most recent Annual AACD Scientific Sessions

Failure to meet these criteria can result in the loss of Active Status.

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