Foundation for Endodontics & Cornerstone Dental Specialties Launch New Diplomate Support Initiative

DSO Spotlight

The Foundation for Endodontics, the philanthropic arm of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), has partnered with Cornerstone Dental Specialties to provide significant financial support for newly pinned Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics (ABE). Over the next three years, Cornerstone Dental Specialties will contribute $165,000 to fund $500 awards for Diplomates, beginning with 216 recipients in 2025.

Recognizing the Dedication of Board-Certified Endodontists

Achieving Diplomate status is a rigorous process that demands years of education, training, and assessment. The Foundation for Endodontics and Cornerstone Dental Specialties acknowledge the dedication required to reach this milestone and aim to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with board certification.

“At Cornerstone Dental Specialties, we are passionate about the importance of Board Certification and are thrilled to be able to contribute to the individuals who have dedicated the time to receive this honor,” said Tom von Sydow, CEO of Cornerstone Dental Specialties. “This grant hopefully will offset some of the financial burden in achieving this milestone.”

Strengthening the Endodontic Specialty

Board certification is a hallmark of advanced knowledge, clinical excellence, and a commitment to patient care. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining endodontics as a recognized dental specialty.

“Board certification demonstrates superior endodontic knowledge and skill, professional growth dedication, and patient care commitment. The process is integral to maintaining endodontics as a recognized specialty with the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards,” said Dr. Patricia Tordik, President of the Foundation for Endodontics. “We are pleased to be able to recognize all newly Board-certified endodontists.”

The initiative will launch with a pilot phase between 2025 and 2027, during which time the Foundation and Cornerstone will assess its impact and further refine the program to best support Diplomates.

About the Foundation for Endodontics

Founded in 1966, the Foundation for Endodontics is a 501(c)(3) charity that supports the specialty through research, education, access to care, and professional development. The Foundation assists AAE members in advancing their expertise and supports efforts to save natural teeth whenever possible. In 2019 alone, the Foundation committed over $1.5 million to research, education, and access to care. The organization provides funding to accredited endodontic programs in the U.S. and Canada, as well as educators, residents, and departments.

About Cornerstone Dental Specialties

Cornerstone Dental Specialties is one of the largest endodontic groups in the U.S., specializing in root canal therapy within general dental and multi-specialty care offices. Serving over 400 locations across 14 states, Cornerstone is owned and operated by endodontists dedicated to clinical mentorship and preserving natural teeth. Their innovative practice ownership model enables endodontists to achieve ownership while allowing transitioning owners flexible options.