ADIA Serves as the “Go-To” Resource for Implant Auxiliary

With implant practices varying by state and technology evolving rapidly, ADIA stands ready to assist dental assistants

The Association of Dental Implant Auxiliaries (ADIA) began in 1990 as a benefit for the staff of dentists belonging to the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), the world’s largest dental implant society. Since then, the ADIA has developed and lived by its mission statement, ‘to advance the field of Implant Dentistry through an organized vehicle for auxiliary education/contributions,’ and to provide lifelong learning opportunities in a variety of capacities for interested assistants and all of its members. ADIA membership is open to all office management and clinical team members.

“As a dental implant auxiliary, it is important to be cross trained and proficient in a number of skill sets,” says Lynn Mortilla, ADIA Executive Director. Implant practices can be very diverse in the way they perform procedures, as well as in the materials and technology they utilize. This training can be invaluable as assistants desire to advance throughout their careers and perhaps change practices or locations. The lack of consistency from state to state in dental assistants’ responsibilities also impacts implant dentistry “perhaps more than other areas,” says Mortilla. “With implants, it is not just a state-to-state issue, but office to office. It starts with the basic procedures and moves through complex.” ADIA attempts to address these discrepancies by encouraging newcomers at their programs to begin with the basics. This philosophy helps to establish a solid foundation on which to build as the team members develop knowledge of implants. “It is critical that the auxiliary staff understands all of the various types of implants and their uses and applications. Additionally, they need strong communication skills to explain benefits of implant dentistry to patients,” Mortilla continues.

For dental assistants interested in careers in implant dentistry, the ADIA has numerous resources available and wants to be seen as the “go to” resource for the profession. While membership is not required for participation in ADIA’s continuing education, membership does provide reduced tuition for sponsored programs. Membership benefits include monthly webinars, the digital handbook entitled ADIA’s Guide to Simplifying Implant Dentistry, newsletters, and digital journals.

Another goal of the association is to develop implant practices as a team. The ADIA educational programs strive to ensure staff members are motivated to work together to provide the absolute best care for implant patients and make implant practicesincreasingly successful. ADIA’s yearly symposia provide certification, small-group workshops, and even one-on-one mentoring opportunities.

Because oralimplantology/implant dentistry is ever changing due to advances in science and technology, the ADIA keeps its members on the cutting edge of changes that willaffect their careers. “This keeps me awake at night,” says Mortilla. “We do not want to leave any stone unturned as we address the challenges and technology necessary to help auxiliaries achieve and keep that edge.

“As members of the dental team, assistants are constantly pressed to maintain and improve their skill sets and knowledge. The ADIA and ICOI are auxiliary minded, recognizing the importance they bring to the team and encouraging them to further their careers,” concludes Mortilla.

ICOI & ADIA Winter Symposium

January 16-18, 2014
Marriott Hotel on Canal Street
New Orleans, LA