American Association of Orthodontists

About AAO The mission of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is to help prospective patients understand the importance and life-changing benefits of orthodontics for all patients: children, teens, and adults. Connecting Patients to Orthodontists Since 1900 The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) was created in 1900. Only dentists who successfully complete an [accredited orthodontic residency program after dental school are accepted for [AAO membership](https://www2.aaoinfo.org/membership/). We represent 19,000 orthodontist members throughout the United States, Canada and abroad. AAO members are gifted and highly educated specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities to correctly align teeth and jaws. Whether you are considering [clear aligners](https://aaoinfo.org/treatments/aligners/) or [traditional braces](https://aaoinfo.org/treatments/braces/), orthodontists have the training, the experience and the treatment options to make sure you get your best smile.