AGD is built by and for general dentists, but it also boasts many specialist members. An associate professor of postgraduate prosthodontics and implantology at the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, Jack Piermatti, DMD, FAGD, FACP, is one such specialist member. Double board certified in prosthodontics and oral implantology, he has served as a clinician, educator, contributor, and nationally recognized educator and speaker in implant dentistry and prosthodontics. A longtime AGD member and Fellow, Piermatti remains committed to lifelong learning and advancing excellence in dentistry.

AGD Impact: How long have you been an AGD member? How did you join, and what has your participation in the organization been like?

Piermatti: I became a member of AGD immediately after graduating from the Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry in 1979 while I was in my general practice resi­dency program. Although my membership was not continuous during my early years, I later re-established my membership and have remained a continuous member for many years.

AGD sets a standard for continuing dental education, which is something I have always felt strongly about. For that reason, I pursued AGD Fellowship early in my career, and it remains an achievement that I am very proud of.

How do AGD’s publications, continuing education courses and other member benefits serve you as a specialist?

As a specialist, I believe I should be an advocate and do as much as I can for my chosen specialty of prosthodontics. Having said that, I also believe all specialists can expand their knowledge of dentistry through a broad range of educational opportunities. AGD is an excellent outlet for that, and every dentist — specialist or generalist — should take advan­tage of those opportunities.

Why do you think it’s important for specialists to be members of a general dentist organization?

A specialist benefits from AGD membership in exactly the same manner as a general dentist. We all benefit from expanding our knowledge and learning outside of our individual specialties or focuses, and that ultimately makes us better dental providers.

As a specialist, what inspired you to pursue AGD Fellowship?

AGD Fellowship is an important and coveted achievement. We all begin as general dentists when we graduate from dental school. Some of us pursue a specialty, and some choose to continue in general dentistry. But, whichever career path we take, we should all strive for outstanding knowledge and abilities. I have achieved great success in prosthodontics, but I also consider myself to be knowledgeable and adequate in general dentistry, as evidenced by my AGD Fellowship.

What advice do you have for new dentists and dental students/residents on how they can maximize the value of their AGD membership?

I would advise any new dental graduate to join AGD. Continuing education will be a part of their career regardless of the path they choose, and many of those courses can be applied toward AGD Fellowship. Even if they decide to pursue a specialty, AGD membership and Fellowship are accomplishments they can always be proud of.