Whether you are looking to reconnect with broader disciplines, a general dentist who aims to sharpen a diagnostic edge, or someone who is ready to achieve AGD Fellowship as part of your professional plans, the Fellowship Review Course at AGD2026 provides the environment needed for that transition and to help you meet these goals.

In the following Q&A, Course Moderator Dr. Michael Struthers explains how shifting from "technician" to "doctor" fundamentally upgrades patient care and practice leadership.

Q: The Fellowship Exam covers 17 dental disciplines. How does this course help a specialist or focused practitioner regain the "big picture" mastery required of a Fellow?

A: The breadth of knowledge reviewed and tested through the exam process helps providers regain a holistic and comprehensive viewpoint of patient care.  Often times, we fall into predictable patterns of treatment that fit our personal zone of comfort.  Some dentists may feel more comfortable directing some care to specialists, causing patients to experience delays and diminishing our ability as general dentists to manage the case effectively.  Reengaging with the material, especially in less familiar sections, allows us to feel more confident in diagnosis, treatment planning, and communication with specialty peers.  Obtaining Fellowship status requires a comprehensive mindset and demonstration of competency which ultimately benefits the patients in our practice.

Q: Beyond the study guides and slides, what is the primary benefit of preparing in a room full of peers rather than studying in isolation?

A: A major benefit is the ability to network and find like-minded providers who can quickly become colleagues.  I have engaged with numerous providers beyond the review course to discuss cases, improve my clinical workflows, or solicit advice on equipment purchases.  Additionally, being surrounded by other providers seeking the same self-improvement and recognition inspires me with an added sense of community and purpose.  I realize I am not alone on my journey and feel a greater sense of purpose and belonging which helps me to keep pushing when things get difficult.  I'm pushing not only for myself but also for my patients and newfound friends. 

Q: Since this shouldn't be a candidate's sole preparation, how should a dentist best bridge the gap between their daily clinical experience and the academic rigor of the exam?

A: The best thing a candidate can do is start early.  We get so caught up in production and efficiency within a busy clinical schedule that sometimes we forget the "why" behind our procedures.  One thing that really helped me was explaining the procedure to my assistant and patient.  A simple restorative procedure can prompt discussions about cariogenic bacteria, local anesthesia, preparation design, restorative material selection and properties, principles of occlusion, and instrument sterilization.  We subconsciously consider all these subjects during patient care, but verbalizing those considerations so everyone in the room understands forces us to fully grasp the material and quickly exposes any knowledge gaps we may have.  Additionally, studying small amounts over a few months is much more effective than attempting to cram it all into a few weekend sessions. When a candidate attends the review course, they should have already spent sufficient time with the study guide and slides to feel comfortable with the material.  The lectures during the review course are intended to focus learners on the highest-yield material for final exam preparation.

Q: How does achieving Fellowship typically change a practitioner's confidence or their relationship with their patients?

A: Achieving Fellowship status is the most difficult thing I've done in my professional career.  It requires a robust understanding and proven competency across all dental specialties.  Successfully passing the exam demonstrated my preparation and excellence, giving me an immense sense of satisfaction and appreciation for the work required to reach that milestone. The reality is that the examination is just a step in the process.  The real benefit isn't the designation or recognition, but the increased knowledge and capabilities gained through the process.  I am now much more prepared to handle complex and challenging clinical scenarios, refer appropriately when necessary, and treat a more comprehensive patient population.  As my understanding has grown, my confidence to attempt challenging cases has increased.  This allows me to be more profitable in my practice and more fully gain my patients' trust.  Because of the understanding and knowledge, I reinforced while preparing for the Fellowship exam, I am much more of a doctor than a technician.

Q: What made you want to dedicate your time to becoming an instructor and what is the most rewarding part of watching a colleague finally "click" with a difficult concept?    

A: I absolutely love helping colleagues reach their professional goals.  Because I have been through the process myself, I understand intimately the requirements for success.  With that knowledge, I can coach and inspire others on their path to achieving the same goal.  I absolutely love how difficult the process to gain Fellowship is.  As someone who has "paid the price," I appreciate that it is not something freely given.  The true sense of accomplishment should be celebrated upon attaining Fellowship status. Helping others on their journey is a pleasure for all of the course instructors and we passionately seek opportunities to assist along the way.