Following the introduction of osseointegration to North America in 1982, a group of dental clinicians from the Greater New York area participated in a course entitled “Osseointegration in Clinical Dentistry”. Subsequently, the group formed a study club to share research and information. This local study club eventually concluded that a national organization was essential to foster education and advancement in this field. As a result, the Academy of Osseointegration was formed. With 6,000 members in 70 countries around the world, the AO is recognized as the premier international association for professionals interested in implant dentistry. AO serves as a nexus where specialists and generalists can come together to evaluate emerging research, technology, and techniques; share best information; and coordinate optimal patient care using timely, evidence-based science and methods. The mission of AO is to improve oral health by advancing the science, ethics, and practice of implant dentistry and related technologies, and to support the professional needs of its members worldwide.