When you see letters after your dentist’s name, they represent years of dedication to continuing education and professional excellence. FAGD stands for Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a prestigious designation held by fewer than 6 percent of general dentists in the United States and Canada. This advanced certification demonstrates a dentist’s commitment to staying current with the latest techniques, materials, and best practices through rigorous continuing education requirements that exceed standard licensing mandates.
If you’re looking for a Newport Beach dentist who prioritizes clinical expertise and professional growth, Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, at Newport Beach Dental Center provides evidence-based, precise care using a conservative, biomimetic approach. At Newport Beach Dental Center, Dr. Sharbash offers comprehensive dental services that demonstrate her commitment to lifelong learning and clinical excellence, resulting in advanced care for a more effective dental experience.
What Qualifications Are Required to Earn the FAGD Designation?
Becoming a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry requires a substantial dedication beyond graduation from dental school. Dentists must complete over 500 credit hours of continuing education, with 350 of those credits earned through live courses where they practice techniques in classroom settings. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, candidates must also pass an examination equal in difficulty to board certification exams.
The credential demonstrates expertise in:
- Restorative dentistry
- Cosmetic procedures
- Orthodontic treatments
- Preventive care approaches
This rigorous process ensures FAGD dentists possess current knowledge across all areas of general dentistry.
Why Should You Choose a Dentist in Newport Beach With Multiple Advanced Certifications?
Beyond the FAGD designation, Dr. Sharbash holds additional credentials, including Diplomate status from the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (D.ABDSM). This combination of certifications demonstrates comprehensive knowledge across multiple dental disciplines, enabling integrated treatment planning that addresses both aesthetic concerns and overall health considerations.
A dentist with diverse advanced certifications can identify connections between oral health and systemic wellness that less experienced practitioners might overlook. For example, Dr. Sharbash’s dual expertise in general dentistry and dental sleep medicine enables her to recognize when jaw alignment issues may contribute to airway obstruction or when cosmetic treatments should be coordinated with Obstructive Sleep Apnea management strategies.
Patients benefit from this perspective through thorough examinations, proactive planning, and tailored care that addresses multiple needs at once. Dentists pursuing multiple advanced certifications provide more complete, effective treatment for their patients.
What Makes FAGD Dentists Stand Out From Other General Dentists?
The Academy of General Dentistry fellowship represents a dentist’s dedication to excellence that extends throughout their career. While standard dental licensure requires minimal continuing education hours, FAGD dentists voluntarily commit to hundreds of additional educational hours, which allows them to bring the most current approaches and knowledge to their patients’ care.
This distinction becomes particularly important as dental technology and techniques continue to advance rapidly. From digital impression systems to biomimetic restoration materials to AI-powered clear aligner monitoring platforms, modern dentistry offers unprecedented opportunities for precision and comfort. FAGD dentists invest time learning these innovations thoroughly before incorporating them into patient care.
Schedule Your Appointment at Newport Beach Dental Center
Understanding advanced dental credentials helps you make informed oral health care choices. The FAGD designation reflects a proven commitment to continuing education and hands-on skill development across general dentistry. Combined with specialized certifications, it signals a dentist dedicated to exceptional patient care.
Dr. Laura Sharbash’s FAGD and D.ABDSM certifications, combined with her experience as a spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry, position her as a trusted authority in dental care. When you choose Newport Beach Dental Center, you benefit directly from her advanced training and personal focus, making your dental care experience more personalized. Call Newport Beach Dental Center at (949) 760-9212 or complete a contact form to schedule your consultation and experience these benefits firsthand.
