“From the clinical aspect, it was always incredibly rewarding to transform the smiles of individuals and watch how it completely changed their self-confidence. Teaching has been the same, only instead of transforming smiles it has been transforming how dentists think about dentistry, helping them grow their clinical skills, and watching them grow in competence and self-confidence.”
Academic Credentials
- Doctor of Dental Surgery, University of Washington School of Dentistry
- Master of Science in Dentistry, University of Washington School of Dentistry
- Certificate in Periodontal Prosthodontics, University of Washington School of Dentistry
- Bachelor of Arts in Biology with honors, Pacific Lutheran University
Dr. Spear continues to be recognized as one of the premier educators in esthetic and restorative dentistry in the world. Considered the mastermind behind Spear Education's Facially Generated Treatment Planning (FGTP) workshops, Dr. Spear first presented on this concept in 1986 at the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry meeting in Colorado Springs, CO.
He has a long professional history in the dental industry beginning in the late 1970s and has written more than 40 articles in various dental publications.
Dr. Spear maintains a busy lecture schedule, presenting dental continuing education in North America, Europe and Asia.
In his spare time, Dr. Spear enjoys golf with his wife, Charlene, spending time with their puppies, Barney and Bailey, collecting and playing vintage vinyl records, collecting vintage automobiles, fly fishing, metal working, traveling with his wife, and spending time with their family.
Professional Affiliations
- American Dental Association
- Washington State Dental Association
- American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (past president)
- American Academy of Restorative Dentistry
- American College of Prosthodontics
- King County Dental Association
- Washington State Society of Prosthodontists
- University of Washington, graduate prosthodontics program, affiliate professor
Awards & Recognition
- Christian Award for Excellence in Restorative Education, Chicago Dental Society
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Achievement Award for Advancing the Art and Science of Cosmetic Dentistry in the United States
- Saul Schluger Memorial Award for Excellence in Diagnosis and Treatment Planning, Seattle Study Club
- President's Award for Excellence in Education (co-recipient, Vincent G. Kokich), American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry
- Distinguished Alumnus Award, Pacific Lutheran University
- Distinguished Alumnus Award, University of Washington School of Dentistry
- Charles Pincus-Ronald Goldstein Lifetime Achievement Award in Esthetic Dentistry, American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry
- Distinguished Lecturer Award from the Greater New York Academy of Prosthodontics
- Gold Medallion Award from the American Prosthodontic Society for Contributions to Prosthodontics
