I recently acquired a dental catalog from the M.F. Patterson Dental Supply Company dated 1911. I could see and feel excitement about the marvels of technology that the new 20th Century was bringing in these pages, nearly 100 years old. Advanced operatory lights, �switchboards� on cabinets to control various pieces of �DC� voltage equipment and the most modern instruments of the time were just some of the exciting �leading edge� improvements in dentistry, that we now consider archaic. As we move into the 21st century, I wonder what our successors will think of the antiquity of our dental catalogs:
* Computers in every operatory
* Voice activation
* Digital X-rays
* Internet usage
* CAD/CAM generated restorations
* Intraoral video
* Digital cameras
* Laser caries detection
* Lasers
* Computerized occlusal diagnostics
The 1911 Patterson catalog took over 30 years to become outdated. Somehow, I fear the current one can be obsolete in 10! The purpose of the Academy of Computerized Dentistry (ACD) is to help us all stay up to date as technology continues to revolutionize the world and dentistry. Many of the "core" technologies that have been maturing over the last 5-10 years are "turning the corner" to become mainstream. A perfect example is the CEREC Chairside Restoration System, which has surpassed the dreams of those who have been working with it even from the beginning and have seen the incredible evolution from the CEREC 1 to the CEREC 3. This same evolution is around us in the realm of computerization in general.
The ACD, founded in 1991, is a network of dedicated dental professionals committed to advance the use of electronic and computerized technologies, which can be utilized to facilitate and improve the practice of dentistry. The organization�s initial focus was on CEREC CAD-CAM technology. For over a decade, the ACD has served as a nucleus, pulling together CEREC users world wide to help each other advance their skills in an effort to deliver better patient care and grow their practices.
As CEREC Technology hits its stride, the rapid proliferation of many computerized technologies pressed us to expand our focus on other digital advancements, many of which can be integrated with the CEREC system. Technologies such as digital radiography, imaging, photography, data management and office software systems are becoming the standard in the modern dental office. The ACD now offers an avenue of support and training in the wide range of possible applications as these technologies emerge. Members are encouraged to continuously grow in their skills through education, experience and networking with other users to provide their patients with the finest dentistry currently available.
The ACD is experiencing tremendous growth, as evidenced by the turnout for the 2001 annual meeting in Orlando, Florida. Three exciting tracks of education, providing valuable information for clinicians and staff alike, attracted over 220 attendees. As new memberships to the ACD continue to roll in, we expect this year�s meeting to attract over 400. Scheduled to take place at the Marriott River Center in San Antonio, Texas, March 12-16, 2002, the meeting entitled "The Future is Here," will again offer parallel tracks of education to meet the needs of the seasoned veteran of computerized technologies, as well as the eager novice.
ACD is a unique, vital organization built by real people based on their real needs and we are excited to expand our horizons to meet the needs of a fast changing market place. For more information on the ACD, the ACD Annual Meeting or to become a member call (800) 836-2484 or visit www.acd-us.com.
