American Prosthodontic Society (APS) Awards
Golden Medallion Award
The American Prosthodontic Society (APS) has selected Dr. Mauro Fradeani as its 2026 Golden Medallion Awardee. The Golden Medallion Award is issued periodically to individuals whose contributions to prosthodontics have been exceptional. The award is funded by the American Prosthodontic Foundation. Dr. Fradeani will be acknowledged at the 97th Annual Meeting of the American Prosthodontic Society in Chicago February 19-20, 2026.
Biography:
Past President of EAED - European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and Past President of AIOP - Accademia Italiana di Odontoiatria Protesica, he has served as Visiting Associate Professor in Prosthetics at Louisiana State University - New Orleans (USA). Active Member of The American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and Life Member of The American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics, he is Founder and Director of ACE Institute and of Fradeani Education.
He has been a member of the Editorial Board of Practical Procedures & Aesthetic Dentistry (PPAD), an Associate Editor of The International Journal of Esthetic Dentistry (IJED) and member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry (JERD).
He is the author of the book “Esthetic Rehabilitation in Fixed Prosthodontics” translated into 12 languages, Vol 1 “Esthetic Analysis” and Vol 2 "Prosthetic treatment: a systematic approach to esthetic, biologic and functional integration", published by Quintessence International.
He runs a private practice limited solely to prosthetics on natural dentition and on implants in Pesaro (Italy).
Presentation Title: The combination of strategic factors for a successful prosthetic rehabilitation
Some esthetic and functional parameters can significantly affect the outcome of a prosthetic rehabilitation. Properly addressing those factors and combining them with the application of minimally invasive prosthetic procedures (MIPPs) will undoubtedly facilitate the achievement of a predictable and successful result.
A careful analysis of the facial, dento-labial and phonetic parameters is crucial before embarking upon an anterior or a full-mouth rehabilitation, however the clinician should never underestimate the importance of the function as it represents the starting point for achieving optimal esthetics. Positioning the mandible of the patient in CR according to the reorganization approach is highly advisable when an occlusal modification is required.
When restoring full arches, the alteration of the VDO is a key factor that leads the clinician to avoid invasive occlusal preparations. The maintenance of a sufficient quantity of enamel reveals to be ideal for the bonding procedure of veneers, full-veneers, buccal-occlusal veneers and table tops, even in presence of very reduced ceramic thickness.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn the esthetic and functional parameters for a predictable result
- Learn how to minimize the invasiveness of the prosthetic treatment by altering the VDO
- Learn the appropriate bonding procedures with reduced ceramic thickness.
Dr. John Kois - 2024
Dr. Frank M. Spear - 2023
Dr. John Beumer - 2018
Dr. Lee M. Jameson - 2017
Dr. Harold Preiskel - 2016
Dr. Gerald Graser - 2015
Dr. Gary Goldstein - 2014
Dr. Yasumas Akagawa - 2013
Dr. Tomas Albrektsson - 2012
Dr. Thomas Taylor - 2011
Dr. Charles Goodacre - 2010
Dr. John W. McLean - 2009
Dr. George Zarb - 2008
Dr. Howard A. Landesman - 2007
Dr. Peter E. Dawson - 2006
Kenneth D. Rudd Award
The American Prosthodontic Society (APS) has selected Naoki Hayashi, as its 2026 Kenneth D. Rudd Awardee. The award was developed to promote and encourage dental laboratory technicians and support the advancement of dental technology education. APS, in conjunction with the editorial council of The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, presents this award to a certified dental technician or dentist who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of prosthodontics and dental laboratory communities. He will be acknowledged and presenting at the 96th Annual Meeting of the American Prosthodontic Society in Chicago on February 19-20, 2026.
Biography:
Naoki Hayashi RDT, MDT, MDC. Ultimate Styles Dental Laboratory
Naoki Hayashi graduated from Osaka Dental University in 1992. Following his graduation, he worked at the National Dental Laboratory in Japan. Among his notable achievements are two publications that have become valuable resources for both dentists and dental technicians. His first book, "A Diary - Through the Lens”, was published by Quintessence Publishing in 2005, followed by "Past << Future - Envision 77 Heart Beats" in 2010, published by Ishiyaku Publishing.In addition to his books, Hayashi has authored over 80 articles, some of which have been translated into **nine languages** and published worldwide. Currently, he serves as the President and Master Ceramist of Ultimate Styles Dental Laboratory in Irvine, California. Alongside his laboratory work, he conducts lectures and hands-on workshops around the world, sharing insights into the latest trends in dental technology and treatment planning. Since 2002, he has also been an international instructor and advisor for Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc. Further solidifying his contributions to the field, Hayashi became an Associate Member of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (AAED) in 2018*and was honored as a Fellow of the AAED in 2024. His ultimate goal is to apply the most advanced techniques in esthetic porcelain restorations, delivering results that exceed dentists' expectations and fulfill patients' esthetic needs. However, his journey does not end here. Naoki Hayashi continues to work alongside highly skilled and talented technicians, striving for excellence in every aspect of his craft. With a deep commitment to education and innovation, he dedicates his efforts to passing on his extensive knowledge and expertise to the next generation of dental professionals.
Presentation Title: Esthetics Redefined: Creating Smile with Personality
With esthetics playing a major role in treatment plans, restorations are almost unacceptable if they are not esthetically magnificent. Dentists and dental technicians have the potential to lighten the future of all patients by brightening up their smiles. It only requires a mere fraction of their time to permanently provide a positive result for the rest of their patients’ lives. We need to keep in mind that our works are very crucial to give patients healthier results. There are several options available to accomplish functional and esthetic restorations successfully. However, all options may not be accepted by patients. Our biggest responsibility is to achieve the optimal result with the selections that the patient makes. In order to achieve this, there are a few things that we need to keep in mind: Communication with the patient is absolutely essential, and selection and knowledge of the appropriate restoration material and restoration type is crucial. A successful treatment result entails an esthetically acceptable restoration that subtly blends with the remaining teeth. At the same time, however, the patient must see a dramatic change as a result of this restoration. This lecture will present the diagnostic clinical discussions and then move on to the proper steps to attain unified goals between patients, doctors, and technicians through our daily clinical cases.
Previous Kenneth D. Rudd Award Winners:
Mr. Nondas Vlachopoulos - 2024
Mr. Michel Magne - 2023
Dr. Edward A. McLaren - 2018
Mr. Dene LeBeau - 2017
Mr. Walter Gebhard - 2016
Mr. Enrico Steger - 2015
Mr. Robert Kreyer, CDT - 2014
Ms. Elizabeth Curran, CDT, RDT - 2013
Mr. Arnold Wohlwend, CDT - 2012
Mr. Vincent V. Alleluia, MDT, CDT, TF - 2011
Mr. Matt Roberts, CDT - 2010
Mr. Willi Geller - 2009
Mr. Roosevelt Davis, MCDT, MS - 2008
Mr. Lee Culp, CDT - 2007
Mr. Robert Berger, CDT - 2006
Mr. Masahiro Kuwata - 2005
Graduate Prosthodontic Research Awards
The American Prosthodontic Society (APS) will hold its 20th Annual Graduate Prosthodontic Research Competition, co-sponsored by The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, at the 97th Annual Meeting of the American Prosthodontic Society which will be held on February 19 and 20, 2026, at the Swissotel in Chicago, Illinois.
Prosthodontic graduate students nationally and internationally are encouraged to participate. Applicants need not be APS Members, however we do invite and encourage membership. Oral presentations of 10 minutes in length can range from a topic of original research to a clinical/technique paper to a literature review. It is the intent of this program for the candidates to submit a manuscript to The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry following the competition. Monetary prizes will be awarded for the three best presentations. The top three selections will be invited to present at the annual meeting.
- Dr. Alvaro Limones
"Effect of Operator Experience, Scanning Interruptions, and Rescanning on Digital Impression-Making: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, Meta-Regression, and Two In-vitro Studies" - Dr. Fahad Alqahatani
"Filler Content and Load to Failure of Machinable and 3D-Printable Composite Resin Copings" - Dr. Muneera Almedaires
"Application of Artificial Intelligence in Predicting Final Shades of Lithium Disilicate Ceramic Restorations"
- Dr. Weiqing Liu
"The Effects of Anodization and Instrumentation on Titanium Surface Characteristics and Biofilm Formation" - Dr. Amr Abouzeid
"Comparison of Surface Roughness and Bacterial Colonization of Recently used Dental Ceramics" - Dr. Andrea Tantengco Hernandez
"Application of Artificial Intelligence in Predicting Final Shades of Lithium Disilicate Ceramic Restorations"
- Dr. Sieu Yien (Ashley) Chiam
"Retention Force of Titanium Copings to Implant-Supported Fixed Dental Prostheses" - Dr. Jun Soo Shin
"Clinical Outcomes of Complete-Arch Fixed Prostheses Supported by Three Implants: A Systematized Review and Meta-Analysis" - Dr. Anvita Maharishi
"Retrospective Clinical Study for a Comprehensive Assessment of Soft Tissue Esthetics"
- Dr. Abdullah Alnasser
"Evaluation of Various Implant Abutment Screw Torqueing Protocols on Reverse Torque Values: An In-Vitro Analysis" - Dr. Jennifer Jacobson
"Susceptibility to Stain of Aged Denture Base Acrylic Resins" - Dr. Apurwa Shukla
"Exploring the Degradation of Dental Implant-Abutment Interface: The Role of Fretting-Corrosion"
- Dr. Anvita Maharishi
"Light Transmission and Wear of Translucent Zirconia After Conventional and Fast Sintering Cycle" - Dr. Davide Romeo
"Accuracy of Intra-Oral Scanner Compared to Lab Scanner in Full-Arch Implant Prosthesis" - Dr. David Remiszewski
"Decontamination Protocols: Conventional and 3D Printed Surgical Guides In Dental Implant Surgery"
- Dr. Pooya Soltanzadeh
"An Invitro Investigation of Accuracy and Fit of Conventional and CAD/CAM Removable Partial Denture Frameworks" - Dr. Anvita Maharishi
"Effect of Surface Treatment on Biaxial Flexure Strength of 4 mol% and 5 mol% Ytrria Containing Translucent Zirconia" - Dr. Shivani Karre
"Complications Associated with Maxillary and Mandibular Fixed Complete Arch Prostheses Based on Implant Distribution"
- Dr. Robert Gazdeck
"Computed Tomography Analysis of Reconstructed Mandibles with Fibula Free Flaps" - Dr. Ghaith Darwish
"Improving Polymethyl Methacrylate Resin Using Novel Nano-Ceramic Coating" - Dr. James Lee
"Mandibular Implant-Supported Fixed Prosthesis: A 30 -Year Success Story"
- Dr. Bryan McLaughlin
"Comparison of Fit of Dentures Fabricated by Traditional Techniques Versus CAD/CAM Technology" - Dr. Sergio Florencio, Jr., DDS
"Systemic Evaluation of Fluorescence in CAD/CAM Ceramic Materials" - Dr. Sherif Hosney
"Radiopacity of Resin Cements Using Digital Radiography"
- Brian Goodacre, DDS
"Comparison of complete denture base adaptation between CAD/CAM and conventional fabrication techniques" - Craig Sikora, DMD
"Wear and corrosion at he titanium-zirconia implant abutment interface" - Karnik Shah, BDS
"De-cementation of monolithic zirconia single implant restoration using ER-YSGG laser"
2015 APS Graduate Prosthodontic Research Awards
- Lauren Manning, DDS
"Experimental evaluation of discoidin domain receptor 2 as an ideal target for development of disease-modifying osteoarthritic drugs" - Natalie Baker, DMD
"Characterization and biocompatibility of transparent nanotubules on hybrid Ti/ZrO2" - Leandro Carneiro, DDS
"Novel semi-destructive biomechanical osseointegration test"
Excellence in Prosthodontics Award
We have introduced an Excellence in Prosthodontics Award in conjunction with the Italian Academy of Prosthetic Dentistry. This Award is open to all members in the APS and is powered by Zerodonto (Free Blog of Dentistry: www.zerodonto.com). The contestant may send 2-20 images (JPEG, PNG) and a brief description of the clinical case in English to zerodonto@gmail.com. The Evaluation Committee headed by Christian Coachman will select the best three cases on the basis of the following parameters: initial scenario, final result, grading of difficulty, operative sequence, and documentation. The three selected cases will be highlighted on the web for a week and the winner will be chosen by an online vote. The winner will be awarded an invite to Bologna, Italy in November, and Chicago in February for a 10-minute presentation, along with a $500 prize and two complimentary nights of lodging.
Student of Merit Award
The APS offers a special award to the graduating Senior Dental Student who, during the year, has demonstrated the highest level of clinical proficiency and greatest interest in prosthodontic dentistry. The APS Student of Merit Award will include a certificate from the Society and a letter of congratulations. To be involved with this program, Program Directors may fill out the Student Award of Merit form including the name of the student and the date of your awards/commencement ceremony. Forms should be returned to our office prior to April 22. One award per University per year. Please include any specific stipulations for awarding commencement prizes to students of your University.
Webinar Awards
2021 Celebrating Young Clinicians- September 25, 2021
Research:
1. Nuha Alkaff
Marginal Fit and Internal Adaptation of Monolithic Zirconia 3-Unit Fixed Dental Prostheses: In-Vitro Study
2. Anibal Hernandez
Evaluation of the Interface of Glass Ionomer Cement Using Two Acid Etching Agents: An In Vitro Study
3. Kharinta Darmawan
Injection of Botolinum Toxin Type-A for Sleep Bruxism: A Literature Review
Clinical:
1. Dimitrios Tsitsimelis
Clinical Application of Custom Alveolar Ridge Splitting Technique for Implant Supported Overdenture of Atrophic Mandible
2. Natacha Reis
Use of a Prosthetic Appliance to Reduce Hypertrophic Lingual Soft Tissue in a Mandibular Overdenture Case
3. Buddhapoom Wangsrimongkol
New Implant Abutment Design for Vertical Orthodontic Movement: A Case Report
Technical:
1. Leonor Limão Oliveira
Prosthetically Oriented Implant Placement Lateral to IAN? A Robotic Assisted Surgical Approach
2. Tanatorn Asvaplungprohm
Considerations for Temporary Abutment Designs for implant supported Provisional Restorations
3. Ludovic de Carle
Robotic Assisted Implant Surgery - A Discussion of Various Off Label Clinical Uses and Advantages