AO announces first two recipients of Certificate in Implant Dentistry

“I am so pleased that the AO is offering a credible means of acknowledging proficiency in implant dentistry,” Binon said. “The main reason I decided to obtain the certificate was to make a statement. Our patients and the public need to have a means of distinguishing fact from fancy. The hype is out there. I do implants, you do implants, we do implants is not good enough.”

“I believe that obtaining an AO certificate is a very good start,” Binon continued. “It tells the public you know your stuff and have been vetted by fellow professionals. I believe it will give you considerable credibility.”

To meet the certificate’s requirements, Binon and Present presented evidence of completing 200 hours of continuing education over a three-year period, including 85 hours of “core knowledge.” They also submitted four case presentations covering the following categories: single tooth, fixed partial denture (fixed bridge), full arch fixed reconstruction, and over denture. They have also been AO members for three consecutive years and attended at least two Annual Meetings during that time.

AO initiated the certificate program at its 2016 Annual Meeting in response to a growing number of AO members seeking distinction in the field of implant dentistry. The certificate represents the highest standards of excellence in implant dentistry, and distinguishes practitioners’ continuing education efforts and knowledge to patients and colleagues around the globe.

“The new AO Certificate in Implant Dentistry will distinguish accomplished practitioners from those who have not met the challenge of continuing education requirements and case presentations,” said Dr. Amerian D. Sones, Dallas, chair of the New Fellowship and Certificate Committee. “Certification represents the highest standards of excellence in implant dentistry.”

“This certificate can also help patients to select their clinician with the knowledge that they are not only members of AO – the premier implant organization globally – but have also been recognized by the Academy for their continuing education and practice in the field of dental implants,” said Dr. Michael Norton, board liaison to the Fellowship & Certificate Committee.

Candidates may select the application that best suits their training, with a focus on surgery, restorative, or both surgery and restorative aspects of dental treatment. One of the cases presented will require a signed statement of authenticity from the patient and be notarized.

The AO website, www.osseo.org, has complete information, including the application along with a Q&A and supporting resources.

(Source: Academy of Osseointegration)