Now Is the Time to Register for the 2026 AO Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.
By: AO Diplomate Mehrdad Favagehi, DDS, MS; Academy News Editor
The theme of the AO 2026 Annual Meeting highlights the transformation power of implant dentistry – for both patients and clinicians. As implant providers, we are privileged to witness how profoundly implant therapy can change patients’ lives.
A compelling example of this transformation appears in Dr. Yellich’s article on page 19, “A Second Chance at a Smile Dentistry4Vets.”
The journey to becoming an expert in implant dentistry is equally transformative for clinicians. Unless you have completed dual specialty training in prosthodontics and surgery, mastery in implant dentistry requires a deep commitment to continuing education (CE). That commitment becomes even more demanding for those who provide both surgical and restorative care.
While traditional specialty programs offer structured curricula under the guidance of full-time educators who mentor a small group of residents over several years, implant dentistry experts must navigate a broad and varied CE marketplace on their own, as they seek the latest knowledge, techniques and collaborative insights to remain at the forefront of a multidisciplinary field.
Complicating this process is the essential role of the implant industry. Implant dentistry simply cannot be practiced without the products companies develop. Fortunately, many industry partners are known for their dedication to quality and innovation. However, corporate involvement also means that much of the CE landscape is influenced — directly or indirectly — by commercial sponsorship. Too often, CE programs drift into infomercials, presenting biased or incomplete information.
“As the world’s premier implant organization – led by internationally respected experts – the AO consistently delivers CE that balances clinical experience, rigorous evidence and meaningful innovation.”
This is where the Academy of Osseointegration stands apart. As the world’s premier implant organization — led by internationally respected experts — the AO consistently delivers CE that balances clinical experience, rigorous evidence and meaningful innovation. AO programs draw from academia, research, private practice and industry, offering a uniquely comprehensive and objective educational experience. For a preview of the exceptional curriculum planned for 2026, please see the article on page X by Dr. Paul Fugazzotto, chair of the 41st AO Annual Meeting Committee.
The 2026 AO Annual Meeting will once again feature popular programs including the Opening and Closing Plenary Sessions, hands-on workshops, topic-focused courses and the Hygiene and Implant Maintenance Symposium, always a favorite among hygienists. Your office team members are also welcome to join you as guests at events such as the President’s Reception.
New for 2026 are courses addressing complications and the business aspects of implant dentistry, offering practical strategies to strengthen your clinical outcomes and grow your practice. In this issue, with business-related articles by Drs. Bakuri, Barr and Schiano highlight the new focus on the business side of implant dentistry, which will be highlighted at the 2026 annual meeting. In keeping with the meeting’s theme — how implant dentistry can transform lives — an estate planning session will explore financial and tax strategies, retirement planning and opportunities for philanthropy through the Osseointegration Foundation.
Registration for the AO 2026 Annual Meeting opened in late November, and seats for hands-on workshops and special sessions, including the complimentary estate planning seminar, are limited. If you plan to join us in Washington, D.C., March 5–7, 2026, now is the time to register.
