What is the Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), and Why It Matters to Your Dental Care
When choosing a dentist, you want someone who not only meets the basic standards of care but also strives to excel in their field. One of the most prestigious distinctions in dentistry is the Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD). This award represents an exceptional level of commitment to continuing education and clinical excellence. But what exactly does it mean, and how does it translate to better care for you as a patient? Let’s dive into the details.
What is the FAGD?
The Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) is a designation awarded to dentists who demonstrate a lifelong commitment to learning and maintaining the highest standards in general dentistry. It is a hallmark of professional excellence, held by fewer than 7% of dentists in the United States and Canada.
To earn this fellowship, a dentist must complete rigorous educational and clinical requirements, showcasing their dedication to staying current with advancements in the field and mastering a wide range of dental procedures. When you see “FAGD” after a dentist’s name, it signifies a deep investment in providing exceptional care.
What Are the Requirements to Achieve FAGD Status?
Earning the FAGD requires significant effort and dedication. Here are the steps involved:
Continuing Education Hours: The dentist must complete a minimum of 500 approved continuing education (CE) hours across various disciplines in dentistry, including cosmetic dentistry, restorative care, endodontics, oral surgery, and more.
Passing a Rigorous Exam: The candidate must pass a comprehensive 250-question Fellowship Exam, covering all aspects of general dentistry. This ensures they are proficient in a wide range of dental knowledge and skills.
Commitment to Lifelong Learning: After achieving fellowship, the dentist must continue taking CE courses to maintain membership and remain on the cutting edge of dentistry.
How Does This Make Me a Better Dentist?
Achieving the FAGD is about more than earning a title. It’s a reflection of my commitment to delivering exceptional care to my patients. Here’s how this distinction benefits you:
Advanced Expertise Across All Areas of Dentistry: With over 500 hours of advanced training, I have honed my skills in a wide range of procedures, from dental implants to root canals to cosmetic dentistry. This means I can provide comprehensive care under one roof, reducing the need for referrals to multiple specialists.
Commitment to Excellence: Preparing for and earning the FAGD requires dedication, perseverance, and a passion for quality. This mindset ensures that I’m always looking for ways to improve my craft and provide better outcomes for my patients.
Keeping Up with the Latest Innovations: Dentistry evolves rapidly, and the FAGD ensures that I’m continually learning about the latest techniques, materials, and technologies. Whether it’s using 3D imaging for precise diagnoses or offering minimally invasive procedures, staying informed allows me to offer cutting-edge care.
Confidence and Trust: When you choose a dentist with the FAGD distinction, you can rest assured that they have gone above and beyond to meet the highest standards of care. This fosters a strong patient-dentist relationship built on trust.
Why Choose a Dentist with FAGD?
While all licensed dentists meet basic standards of care, not all pursue additional accolades like the FAGD. Choosing a dentist with this designation means choosing a professional who values education, expertise, and excellence. It’s a reassurance that you’re in the hands of a dentist who has demonstrated their commitment to being among the best in their field.
In my practice, achieving the FAGD isn’t just a milestone—it’s a promise to continue striving for excellence in everything I do. From routine checkups to complex dental procedures, my goal is to provide care that exceeds expectations and helps you achieve optimal oral health.
Experience the Difference
Your smile deserves the best. By choosing a dentist with the FAGD designation, you’re choosing a higher level of care, expertise, and dedication. If you’re looking for a dentist who is committed to lifelong learning and delivering outstanding results, schedule your appointment today. Let me show you the difference that a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry can make.
