Inciting the Learning Revolution
Michael R. Sesemann, DDS
“A few pearls, I guess. It was all right.”
That was the report from a colleague who had attended a CE event a few weeks prior. And while he seemed to accept “a few pearls” as enough to justify the tuition, time out of his office, and travel to and from the venue, his tone contained a hint of resigned disappointment. “A few pearls” has too long been the measure of a worthy event, but times have dramatically changed.
Budgets are tight. Travel is expensive. Schedules must be guarded jealously. Dentists are reluctant to invest in untested continuing education, much less have their team members attend. They are demanding more solid education that has a positive and immediate impact on their daily practice. They want inspiration yet with practical application.
There is a lot known about how adults learn best. They want to learn about things of real interest to them—not what others think they need. They want to be involved and actively participate in their learning experiences. They want to challenge and be challenged, question and have their questions answered. They want to discover new ideas and build on what they already know. They want their educators to be respectful, deliver what they promise, and be engaging in their presentation styles. While that is not too much to ask, it is a lot to deliver, and The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is dedicated to doing just that and more.
Over the past 25 years, the AACD has built a solid reputation as one of the most worthwhile continuing education experiences in dentistry, and our 26th Annual AACD Scientific Session, which will be held in Grapevine, Texas, on April 27 through May 1, 2010, will raise the bar even higher. If a dentist and team can attend just one major event in 2010, this is certainly one that should be at the top of their list.
Program Content for All
The annual AACD scientific session is built around an array of internationally renowned lecturers from academic and private practice venues all balanced by invaluable hands-on learning experiences and just the right amount of social activity—all designed to make the 5-day experience a solid investment and highly worthwhile.
Our headline presenters are the best dentistry has to offer: John Kois, DMD, MSD; Pat Allen, DDS, PhD; Newton Fahl, DDS, MS; and Lorenzo Vanini, DDS, MD. In addition, the program comprises such distinguished educators as Ricardo Mitrani, DDS, MSD; Sillas Duarte, DDS, MS, PhD; Joseph Kan, DDS, MS; Marcos Vargas, DDS, MS; Ernesto Lee, DMD; Professor Hien Ngo, BDS, MDS; Stephen Chu, DMD, MSD, CDT; and So-Ran Kwon, DDS, just to name a few.
Laboratory technicians will get a full plate of programs from noteworthy ceramists such as Pinhas Adar, MDT; Patrick Rutten; Shigeo Kataoka, CDT; Yi-Yuan Chang, CDT; and Gilbert Young, CDT, among others. The AACD has a strong commitment to providing clinical and non-clinical educational opportunities for all members of the team so that dental assistants, dental hygienists, business managers, and patient coordinators will each find a full array of learning programs throughout the week. (For a full listing of lecturers and programs, visit https://www.aacd.com.) We hold each of our presenters to a high standard of performance, and this lineup ensures that every one of them will come prepared to deliver exactly what is promised.
Because technology is such an important aspect of the dentistry we practice, we are proud to offer our members and attendees an extensive exhibit hall of manufacturers and suppliers. In addition, for the first time, the AACD will unveil “AACD Digital World,” a demonstration exhibit designed to give participants hands-on experience with a wide array of digital equipment. From digital impressions to CAD/CAM and beyond, everyone will have the opportunity to actively engage all forms of digital equipment in a non-sales environment.
While solid learning is the centerpiece of our program, the social activities and personal interactions with like-minded colleagues are what makes the annual AACD scientific session complete. Because we will occupy the entire Gaylord Texan Hotel and Convention Center, everyone you see will be another participant and friendships will be made, renewed, and deepened. The AACD family is one that invites all who share our commitment to learning, responsible esthetics, and creating a community of like-minded professionals.
Inclusion. Diversity. Education. Community. Four words that signify what the AACD stands for and what core values we hold dear. If these are things that you value as well and you wish to take advantage of the significant educational opportunities that exist at this year’s annual AACD scientific session, we look forward to seeing you there!
| About the Author | |
 | Michael R. Sesemann, DDS Accredited Fellow and President The american Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry msesemann@smilesonline.net |
