If you are looking for the best physician to provide a cosmetic procedure for you, you can look for a board certified specialist in plastic surgery. It is different for dentistry as currently there is no board certified specialty for cosmetic dentistry. Consequently any dentist can advertise that he or she is a cosmetic dentist, and many do.

So how can you find a dentist with the experience and training to provide exceptional results? The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry has provided the most widely recognized evaluation process for cosmetic dentists. If you select a dentist accredited by the AACD, you can be assured that their work has been scrutinized by a board of their peers. I spent several years going through this process and received accreditation 2 years ago. I value this achievement as much as my dental degree. A complete description from the AACD website is provided below.

Accredited AACD Members

Dental professionals wanting to advance their level of cosmetic dentistry education to bring their patients the best care available seek to further their connection with the AACD through Accreditation. Accreditation requires a demonstrably high level of proficiency in cosmetic dentistry and an unwavering dedication to continuing education and responsible patient care.

Accreditation in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry involves a rigorous clinical testing process. Candidates begin with a written examination and then progress to a series of clinical cases that cover a number of different situations and feature differing levels of complexity. Finally, Accreditation is achieved after passing an oral examination. This entire process typically takes years to complete, but is worth the additional effort for the dentists and laboratory technicians who achieve AACD Accreditation, since it encourages further education, interaction with colleagues, and the opportunity for professional growth.

As a patient, you can be confident knowing that through your AACD Accredited dentist you have a professional with improved skills, one who has researched the latest materials and methods, and has learned new techniques to provide the care and results you expect.

Your AACD Accredited dentist is special: There are fewer than 350 AACD Accredited members in the world. Your dentist wants you to be happy with your smile, and will work with you to develop the best treatment solution possible.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry is the world’s largest international dental organization dedicated to advancing excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry and encouraging the highest standards of ethical conduct and patient care through responsible esthetics. Founded in 1984, the AACD has more than 6,300 members in more than 80 countries around the globe. Members of the Academy include cosmetic and reconstructive dentists, dental laboratory technicians, educators, researchers, students, hygienists, and dental assistants. AACD members pursue continuing education through the AACD’s Accreditation process, lectures, workshops, and publications to keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in cosmetic dental techniques, materials, and technology.