The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) presented awards for outstanding achievement in periodontics and service to the Academy today during its 92nd Annual Meeting in San Diego.
The Gold Medal Award was given to Gordon Douglass, D.D.S., private practitioner in Folsom and Sacramento, Calif. Funded by Sunstar Butler, the award is the highest honor given by the AAP, and is given annually to recognize outstanding contributions to the field of periodontics.
The AAP’s Master Clinician Award was given to Henry H. Takei, D.D.S., private practitioner in Los Angeles, professor of periodontics at University of California Los Angeles, consultant in periodontics at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Los Angeles and visiting professor of periodontics at Meikai University School of Dentistry in Tokyo. This award is given to an Academy member who has practiced and demonstrated consistent clinical excellence in periodontics.
The Presidential Award, funded by Procter & Gamble, was given to Kent G. Palcanis, associate dean of Academic Affairs at the University of Alabama School of Dentistry in Birmingham, Ala. This award is given annually in recognition of a member’s distinguished service to the AAP over a period of years.
The Outstanding Periodontal Educator Award is being given to Lewis J. Claman, D.D.S., M.S., associate professor at Ohio State University and private practitioner in Columbus, Ohio.
The Humanitarian Award is being given to David Woolweaver, D.D.S., M.S., and private practitioner in Harlingen, TX.
Two periodontists were given Fellowship Awards in recognition of distinguished service to the AAP in more than one area. The awards, funded by Procter & Gamble were presented to the following:
· H. Stan Ford, D.D.S., private practitioner in Rocky Mount, N.C.
· Esther Wilkins, D.M.D., clinical professor of the Department of Periodontology, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston.
A special citation was presented to Raymond A. Yukna, D.M.D. who has made a specific contribution to the Academy through a committee assignment, special project or other activity in recognition of various outstanding contributions to the AAP. University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry is also receiving a special citation for hosting Louisiana State University’s periodontal program this past year after Hurricane Katrina. Pfizer funds the special citation awards.
The American Academy of Periodontology is an 8,000-member association of dental professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.