When you see the letters 'MAGD' after a dentist's name, it represents one of the most prestigious designations in all of dentistry. Dr. John Chao, DDS, MAGD has earned this honor — and understanding what it means can help you appreciate the level of expertise and dedication he brings to every patient.

What is the Academy of General Dentistry?

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is a professional organization representing more than 40,000 general dentists in the United States and Canada. The AGD is dedicated to continuing dental education and the promotion of optimal oral health.

The Fellowship (FAGD) and Mastership (MAGD) Designations

The AGD offers two prestigious post-doctoral designations: the Fellowship (FAGD) and the Mastership (MAGD). To earn the Fellowship designation, a dentist must complete 500 hours of continuing education and pass a comprehensive written exam. The Mastership designation — which Dr. Chao holds — requires an additional 600 hours of continuing education beyond the Fellowship level, for a total of 1,100 hours.

These are not just hours of passive attendance. The continuing education must cover a broad range of dental disciplines, ensuring that the dentist maintains expertise across all areas of general dentistry.

What This Means for Patients

When you choose Dr. Chao as your dentist, you are choosing a practitioner who has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to staying current with the latest developments in dental science and technique. The MAGD designation is held by fewer than 2% of all dentists in the United States.

Combined with his status as the inventor of the Pinhole Surgical Technique® and his former faculty role at USC School of Dentistry and current appointment at SUNY Buffalo, Dr. Chao's MAGD designation reflects a career defined by excellence, learning, and service to patients.