It’s not just alphabet soup. All the letters behind Dr. Stryker’s name have a very important meaning. Only a few dentists in the country have the same letters in their titles, but that’s part of what makes them so special. Let’s break it down.
What it all means
Dr. Stryker’s full title is Chris Stryker DDS, FAGD, FICOI. The first set of letters, DDS, which most people are familiar with, means Doctor of Dental Surgery. Dentists must earn either a DDS or a DMD before they can practice. Both require an undergraduate degree plus three more years of dental school. Before a dentist can practice, however, they have to pass a national written exam and a state or regional clinical licensing exam. Dentists are then required to complete a certain number of continuing education hours each year to keep their licenses. This ensures that your dentist stays current on the latest scientific information, technologies, and techniques.
Fellowships
The next two sets of letters, FAGD and FICOI, are what really set Dr. Stryker apart from the rest. The F is for Fellowship. Fellowship is a status that requires a high level of education and commitment. Only a small percentage of dentists in the country pursue fellowships as part of their careers. Dr. Stryker has earned two:
Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD)
After completing over 500 hours of continuing education courses and passing a lengthy exam, Dr. Stryker became a Fellow with the Academy of General Dentistry, one of the top professional association for dentists in the US and Canada. Only about 6% of US and Canadian dentists are AGD Fellows.
International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI)
Becoming a Fellow with the ICOI means that Dr. Stryker had to complete a number of implant procedures and 100 hours of courses on dental implants. The ICOI is the world’s largest dental implant organization and continuing dental implant education provider.
Benefits for Patients
Dr. Stryker did not earn two fellowships because he had extra time on his hands and wanted something to brag about to his colleagues. He did it to gain high-level skills and become the best dentist he can for his patients. Dedicating hundreds of hours to continuing education in general dentistry and dental implants means the quality of care he provides is unparalleled. Dr. Stryker’s patients have added reassurance that their dentist is an expert in his field.
If you or someone you know is looking for a dentist with advanced skills and education, call Lincoln Crossings Dental Care in North Huntingdon, PA to request an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you.
