Tuesday, May 31, 2011

American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)













In May, I went to Boston for my first trip to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) annual scientific session. It was four days of great continuing education. I've always wanted to attend this convention, and I was not disappointed. The organization strives to push dentists to their highest level, focusing on continual improvement and conservative, new technology. It is great to be around dentists from all over the world that are striving to do the best dentistry available. The educators were top notch and are involved in some great new advancements in the field.
Part of the organization is an accreditation process where you complete and submit five cosmetic cases and are graded by a board of examiners. I'm excited about the process of having my wo
rk blown up on a screen and having my work critiqued and given feedback on how to improve. They are incredibly detail-oriented, and the process will surely be a challenge. I plan on beginning right away as the right type of dentistry presents itself in my practice. I've heard it truly pushes you and makes you a better dentist as you strive for perfection. I'm excited to return annually to this event. I hope to make it a new tradition.

Although all of my days were spent in classes I did convince Caroline to come along to give her a break from the trenches of mothering our 6 lively children. She came with our one year old, Calvin, so she only had to work around one baby's schedule. I felt bad leaving her every morning, but she had a great time touring around historic Boston and just having some time to herself. It rained almost every day we were there, but she just went for it anyway. One n
ight she met me with her new umbrella, and the stroller cup holders were filled with 1/2 inch of water. She had been on a walking tour of Boston in the pouring rain. What an adventurous soul. It was great to spend time with her even if it was just a few hours in the evening.












All in all a tiring but motivating weekend in Boston. I'll keep posts on my progress of accreditation.