Seattle, WA — April 10, 2020

On March 2, the Board of the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards voted in favor of specialty recognition of Oral Medicine. This makes Oral Medicine the 11th ADA recognized dental specialty.

The American Academy of Oral Medicine (AAOM), founded in 1945, is the membership organization representing the specialty of Oral Medicine. AAOM membership provides care to thousands of the nation’s youth and adults whose underlying medical condition affects oral health and the delivery of dental care. AAOM has been working towards earning ADA specialty recognition for many years.

AAOM defines Oral Medicine as: the specialty of dentistry responsible for the oral health care of medically complex patients and for the diagnosis and management of medically related disorders or conditions affecting the oral and maxillofacial region.

The American Dental Association sites "Dental specialties are recognized by the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards to protect the public, nurture the art and science of dentistry, and improve the quality of care. It is the National Commissions’ belief that the needs of the public are best served if the profession is oriented primarily to general practice. Specialties are recognized in those areas where advanced knowledge and skills are essential to maintain or restore oral health (Association policies are contained in the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct)."

AAOM President Dr. Lauren Patton stated, “AAOM appreciates this recognition for our members who have devoted years to advanced study, research, and practice in our specialty of Oral Medicine. Our work at the interface of medicine and dentistry has allowed so many patients to achieve optimal oral health and we hope this recognition will encourage other dentists to follow us into this specialty to expand our patient reach.” 

“We are proud to represent so many in Oral Medicine and the patients they serve", said Michele Reeder, AAOM’s Executive Director. "We are grateful for this recognition and look forward to supporting Oral Medicine in the months and years ahead.”

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About The American Academy of Oral Medicine

The American Academy of Oral Medicine (AAOM), founded in 1945, is the membership organization representing the discipline of Oral Medicine. AAOM membership provides care to thousands of the nation’s youth and adults whose underlying medical condition affects oral health and the delivery of dental care. AAOM, in accordance with its vision and mission, advocates optimal oral health and health care for anyone with medical illness. AAOM's advocacy activities take place within the broader health care community and with the public at local, regional, and national levels. The Academy is a sponsor of the American Board of Oral Medicine--which is responsible for examining and certifying candidates who have received approved postdoctoral training. Requirements correspond to those of national specialty boards. Learn more at www.aaom.com.