AAAD: Three decades of excellence in aesthetic dentistry

Founding and early development

The inception of AAAD traces back to a preliminary meeting in Korea in 1989, where representatives from Korea, Japan, and Singapore convened to discuss the future of aesthetic dentistry in Asia. This initial gathering paved the way for a formal meeting at the Prince Philip Dental Hospital in Hong Kong on January 15, 1990. Chaired by Professor Stephen Wei, this historic assembly culminated in the official establishment of the AAAD. Professor Michio Haga of Japan was unanimously elected as the founding president, with the Academy’s secretariat strategically based in Singapore to facilitate regional coordination.

Leadership through the years

Over the decades, the AAAD has been guided by a diverse group of presidents from various Asian countries, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise:

• 1990-1991: Prof. Michio Haga (late), Japan
• 1990-1992: Prof. Lee Jae Hyun, Korea
• 1992-1994: Prof. Takao Maruyama, Japan
• 1994-1996: Dr. Lin Chong Min, Taiwan ROC
• 1996-1998: Dr. Peter Tay, Singapore
• 1998-2000: Dr. Sandesh Mayekar, India
• 2000-2002: Dr. Ko Seok Hoon, Korea
• 2002-2004: Dr. Toru Matsuo, Japan
• 2004-2006: Dr. T.C. Phua, Singapore
• 2006-2008: Dr. Robert Dharma, Indonesia
• 2008-2010: Dr. Sim Tang Eng, Malaysia
• 2010-2012: Prof. Hisashi Hisamitsu, Japan
• 2012-2014: Dr. Wang Guanghu, China
• 2014-2016: Dr. Sushil Koirala, Nepal
• 2016-2018: Dr. Ronnie Yap, Singapore
• 2018-2022: Dr. Kim Myungjin, Korea (extended term due to COVID-19)
• 2022-2023: Prof. Vijayratnam Vijaykumaran
• 2023-2025: Dr. Edward Hu, Taiwan ROC

Scientific endeavors and biennial Meetings

In alignment with its mission to promote education in aesthetic dentistry, the AAAD organized its inaugural Scientific Meeting in Singapore on September 8, 1990, strategically timed before the FDI World Dental Congress to maximize visibility. Since then, the Academy has upheld a tradition of biennial meetings, serving as platforms for knowledge exchange, professional networking, and showcasing advancements in aesthetic dentistry. These gatherings have traversed various Asian cities, reflecting the Academy’s commitment to regional inclusivity:

• 1990: Singapore
• 1992: Seoul, Korea
• 1994: Kagoshima, Japan
• 1996: Taipei, Taiwan ROC
• 1998: Singapore
• 2000: Mumbai, India
• 2002: Seoul, Korea
• 2004: Nagoya, Japan
• 2006: Singapore
• 2008: Bali, Indonesia
• 2010: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• 2012: Sapporo, Japan
• 2014: Foshan, China
• 2016: Bangkok, Thailand
• 2018: Singapore
• 2020: Seoul, Korea (canceled due to COVID-19)
• 2023: Colombo, Sri Lanka
• 2024: Taipei, Taiwan ROC

Membership and collaborative growth

The AAAD’s membership encompasses a broad spectrum of countries, including Japan, Korea, India, China, Taiwan, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Nepal, Hong Kong, and Thailand. Recognizing the burgeoning interest in aesthetic dentistry, the Academy amended its membership criteria in 2005 to incorporate institutional members, thereby embracing various aesthetic dental groups across Asia. This strategic move positioned the AAAD as a federation for Asian aesthetic dental groups, reinforcing its role in advancing aesthetic dentistry education.

Publications and educational contributions

Demonstrating its commitment to knowledge dissemination, the AAAD launched the “Asian Journal of Aesthetic Dentistry” in 1993, aiming to cover the entire spectrum of dental aesthetics. The journal owes much to Professor Lui Joo Loon of Malaysia, who served as its editor from 1993 to 2004. However, due to evolving scientific objectives and relevance, the publication was eventually discontinued.

Global integration and future outlook

As a member of the International Federation of Esthetic Dentistry (IFED), the AAAD collaborates with aesthetic dentistry organizations worldwide, fostering a global exchange of knowledge and best practices. This integration ensures that Asian dental professionals remain at the forefront of global advancements in aesthetic dentistry.

2024 wrap up for AAAD

The 18th Biennial Meeting of the Asian Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (AAAD) and the 30th Anniversary of the Taiwan Acade my of Aesthetic Dentistry (TAAD): A Landmark Event in Taipei. From November 29 to December 2, 2024, Taipei, Taiwan, hosted the 18th Biennial Meeting of the Asian Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (AAAD) in conjunction with the 30th Anniversary of the Taiwan Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (TAAD). This significant event, themed “Being Legendary,” marked a pivotal moment in the field of aesthetic dentistry, bringing together professionals from across the globe to share knowledge, innovations, and celebrate milestones.

A return to taipei after 28 years

Taiwan last hosted the AAAD meeting in 1996. After 28 years, the 2024 conference symbolized the remarkable progress and enduring commitment of both AAAD and TAAD to advancing aesthetic dentistry in the region.

Distinguished speakers and comprehensive scientific program

The conference featured a stellar lineup of international and local speakers who delved into various aspects of oral and maxillo facial aesthetics. Topics encom passed full mouth rehabilitation, aesthetic implant procedures, advanced restorative materials, periodontal surgery, minimally invasive dental techniques, and specialized dental structure bonding.

Special highlight: Dr. Joseph Kan’s full-day lecture

A notable highlight of the event was the full-day lecture by renowned U.S. professor Dr. Joseph Kan, titled “28 Years of Anterior Implant Esthetics: Successes, Failures & Limitations.” Dr. Kan’s extensive research and clinical experience in anterior implant aesthetics made his session highly anticipated among attendees.

Networking and professional growth opportunities

Beyond the scientific sessions, the meeting offered extensive networking opportunities, allowing participants to engage with peers, exchange ideas, and explore global trends in aesthetic dentistry. The event aimed to inspire attendees to pursue excellence in providing patients with healthy, balanced, and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

Looking ahead into 2025

Dr. Nurul Huda Hasan, the current President-Elect of the Asian Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (AAAD) for the 2025-2027 term, is poised to lead the Academy into a new era of innovation and excellence in aesthetic dentistry. With a distinguished career spanning clinical practice, academia, and professional leadership, Dr. Nurul brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to her forthcoming presidency.

Article by Dr. TC Phua, Past President, AAAD.

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