DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, while DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Historically, the DDS degree originated in 1840 at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery — the world's first dental school and alma mater of Dr. Alan Bui. Despite the different names, the American Dental Association confirms they represent identical education and qualifications. In the United States, both DDS and DMD dentists must pass the same national and state licensing exams to practice, meeting the requirements for board certification as a general dentist. Some dentists pursue additional certifications through organizations like the Academy of General Dentistry or the American Board of Oral Implantology to demonstrate advanced expertise and commitment to continuing education.

FAGD stands for Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, while MAGD stands for Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. These are prestigious awards, recognizing dentists who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to continuing education and exceptional patient care. To earn Fellowship, a dentist must complete at least 500 hours of approved continuing dental education, pass a rigorous comprehensive exam, and demonstrate active involvement in the AGD community. Only about six percent of general dentists in the US and Canada achieve this distinction. To earn Mastership, a dentist must first achieve Fellowship, then complete an additional 600 approved continuing education hours across 18 specific dental disciplines, with at least 400 hours in hands-on courses. Less than two percent of general dentists achieve Mastership status.  At Bui Family Dentistry in Southampton, PA, both Dr. Alan Bui and Dr. Robert Sattler have achieved Fellowship and Mastership status — placing them among the most highly educated general dentists in the country.

AAID stands for the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, one of the most respected organizations dedicated to advancing education and standards in implant dentistry. An Associate Fellow must complete at least 300 hours of postdoctoral or continuing education in implant dentistry, divided between the sciences and its clinical applications. The dentist must then pass a rigorous comprehensive two-part examination — a written portion followed by an oral interview before a panel of dental implant diplomates. Dr. Alan Bui holds this designation and actively gives back by coaching other dentists pursuing their own AAID credentialing — a testament to his commitment to mentorship and advancing the field