Lecture up to 0.25 hour

Practice Management & Human Relations | AGD Subject Code 550

In this special session, Dr Spear will reflect not only on his professional journey but also on the personal and philosophical insights gained through his transition from private practice to the next purposeful chapter of his life.

With candor and wisdom, he will share the thought process and “formula” that guided his transition, offering valuable perspective for dentists who are contemplating partial or full retirement, practice succession, or redefining their professional identity. Whether you’re early in your career or approaching a new phase, this session will provide inspiration and practical guidance for planning a fulfilling and intentional future.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Gain insight into Dr Spear’s personal transition journey and the key principles that shaped his decisions.
• Identify the emotional and practical considerations involved in stepping away from clinical practice.
• Explore strategies for creating a meaningful next chapter beyond private practice.
• Understand the value of long-term planning and intentionality in professional transitions.

Dr Spear does not have any affiliations to disclose.

Dr Frank Spear is the founder of Spear Education in Scottsdale, Arizona. He earned his dental degree from the University of Washington in 1979, followed by a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) in periodontal prosthodontics from the same institution in 1982.

Widely recognized for his profound contributions to dentistry, Dr Spear has received numerous prestigious honors throughout his career. In 1993, he was awarded the Christensen Award for Excellence in Restorative Education by the Chicago Dental Society. Two years later, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry honored him with a special award for advancing the art and science of cosmetic dentistry in the United States.

In 1996, Dr Spear received the Saul Schluger Memorial Award for Excellence in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning from the Seattle Study Club. In 2003, he and colleague Dr Vincent G. Kokich were jointly awarded the inaugural Presidents Award for Excellence in Education from the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.

Additional honors include the 2004 Distinguished Alumnus Award from his undergraduate alma mater, Pacific Lutheran University, and the 2013 Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Washington School of Dentistry. In 2018, he received the first-ever Charles Pincus–Ronald Goldstein Lifetime Achievement Award in Esthetic Dentistry from the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. The following year, he was named Distinguished Lecturer by the Greater New York Academy of Prosthodontics.

Most recently, Dr Spear received the 2023 American Academy of Prosthodontics Gold Medallion Award in recognition of his influence on the field, and in 2024, he was honored with the American Equilibration Society President’s Award for Excellence in Prosthodontic Education.