Loma Linda University School of Dentistry: Dentalgram, Dec. 2000

American Academy of Gold Foil Operators holds annual meeting
By Clyde Roggenkamp

The annual meeting of the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators was held in Honolulu, Hawaii November 1 to 4. Members along with their families and staff numbering approximately 100 attended from North and South America, China, and locally from Hawaii.

The group had arranged a historically inspiring tour of the USS Arizona battleship memorial, followed by a separate tour of the now totally renovated battleship USS Missouri.

The last half of the first day was the clinical portion. The U.S. Navy generously extended use of their Makalapa dental clinic including dental chairs, and provided patients and dental assistants. Thirteen AAGFO dentists performed various direct gold restorations. I was honored to perform a class VI direct gold restoration (using platinized foil) on a Navy captain.

The remainder of the meeting was conducted at Marriott Ihilana Resort and Spa, and included 10 slide lectures by highly skilled clinicians who presented concepts for improved placement of direct gold restorations. Their enthusiasm and innovative pointers raised the standard of excellence for all attending.

The final presentation on the last day included 35 mm slides at 2:1 magnification exhibiting the start and finish of each gold foil restoration from the first day at the Naval Dental Clinic. Cases were narrated individually by each operator with welcome ad libitum critiques by other members. Many thoughtful ideas were shared.

It is always a rewarding experience to attend the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators meetings (even under less exotic conditions!). Many of the highest qualities of professional dentistry are represented by its members. Next year's meeting will be at Indiana University School of Dentistry, Indianapolis, Indiana.

This group is open to new membership. Information is available from Drs. Baum, Roggenkamp, Schnepper, or Walter.

Members of the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators and their guests enjoy buffet lunch aboard the USS Missouri's aft deck.