Nathan R. Smith, DMD, MPH, FAGD, received the prestigious Fellowship Award from the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) during its July 2024 scientific session and convocation ceremony. The Fellowship Award symbolizes excellence in the dental profession and a commitment to exceptional patient care.
“The AGD is committed, to supporting the growth and development of general dentists through education, and we are delighted to recognize Dr. Smith for steadfast dedication to providing outstanding oral healthcare," stated AGD President Merlin Ohmer, DDS, MAGD. "Dr. Smith exemplifies excellence by standing out within dentistry and showing a commitment to the dental community."
Smith earned a BS in Chemistry with honors from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in 2001 and his DMD from the UAB School of Dentistry in 2005. He spent his early career serving as a clinical dentist and Director of Dental Health for the Jefferson County Department of Health for over a decade; during this time, he earned his MPH in health care policy and organization from the UAB School of Public Health in 2010.
In 2021, he joined UAB School of Dentistry as full-time Assistant Professor and Director of Geriatric Dentistry, where in addition to teaching and mentoring dental students and residents he manages and coordinates external clinical rotations, community outreach, and oral health screenings for older adults. His expertise in community dentistry encompasses oral care delivery for all age groups, implementation of health safety practices in clinical settings, and leadership of health services teams.
Leading numerous community projects involving partnership and outreach to expand oral health services to underserved, vulnerable populations, Smith is passionate about promoting health. His research interests include geriatric dentistry, simulation, dental materials, and population health. Smith also provides direct patient care at the 1917 Dental Clinic.
In becoming a Fellow, Smith joins an elite group of general dentists committed to going above and beyond by completing 500 hours of continuing dental education, passing a comprehensive written exam, and fulfilling three years of continuing membership with the AGD.
About the Academy of General Dentistry
The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is a professional association of more than 40,000 general dentists dedicated to providing quality dental care and oral health education to the public. Founded in 1952, AGD is the largest association for general dentists in the world and serves the needs and represents the interests of general dentists.