American Academy of Implant Dentistry

Founded in 1951, the Chicago-based American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) is the first organization in the world of its kind. Dedicated to the advancement of the art and science of implant dentistry, the AAID has been instrumental in the development of educational and dental practice standards, patient dental care and scientific research in that field. The AAID counts more than 3,500 members worldwide, including general dentists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists, prosthodontists and other dental specialists interested in dental implants. The Academy's credentialing and educational programs provide valuable expertise in oral implantology.

The AAID is committed to providing essential funds towards research in implant dentistry. To that end, the Academy has established its own Endowment Fund. Interest from this fund is reserved to fund research, while the principal of the Fund remains intact. Aside from the Endowment Fund, the Foundation has awarded research grants through corporate and member contributions to further the art and science of implant dentistry. Sponsoring seminars and publishing research results in recognized dentistry journals are also among the Foundation's chief priorities.

The AAID offers a complete range of dental implant courses for all levels of expertise, whether a member is a newcomer to the field, a member of a surgical team or an experienced dental professional familiar with all stages of patient diagnosis, oral surgery and recovery. The AAID's 10-month-long MaxiCourses® is regarded as the most respected and comprehensive training program in implant dentistry. The courses are offered at university settings in the U.S. as well as internationally and are taught by those at the top of the implantology science and profession. Courses in bone-grafting and cosmetic microsurgery are also part of the AAID education curriculum.

Complementing its educational initiatives, the AAID also offers a widely recognized credentialing program. The Academy offers two levels of credentialing - the Fellow and the Associate Fellow. To qualify for either, a candidate must meet strict criteria regarding education and years practiced and pass certified examinations. Both credentials are recognized by numerous state boards.

The AAID is the premier source for the latest news in implant dentistry and its supporting industry. A peer-reviewed bi-monthly, The Journal of Oral Implantology provides articles and features on the latest clinical and scientific research in the field. The legal, management aspects of the field and news on AAID activities are provided in the quarterly AAID News. Every month, members receive the eGram, featuring updates on AAID activities, and each week the electronic newsletter AAID Implant Insight goes out to both members and non-members interested in the field.