AAO Opens Applications for 2027 Ortho Innovator Awards

The American Association of Orthodontists is accepting submissions for its annual awards program, which recognizes new products and services in the orthodontic industry.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is now accepting submissions for its 2027 Ortho Innovator Awards. The program recognizes orthodontists who have developed products or services intended to improve clinical outcomes, enhance the patient experience, or increase operational efficiency. Submissions are open from October 1, 2026, through January 31, 2027.

Award Categories and Submission Requirements

Applicants can enter their inventions into one of two categories. The Emerging Innovation category is for ideas that have reached the prototype, pilot, or minimum viable product stage but are not yet commercialized. The Market Impact Innovation category is for products or solutions that are already available in the commercial market and have demonstrated real-world adoption.

To enter, applicants must submit a 3- to 5-minute video featuring the AAO member orthodontist who developed the innovation. The AAO Committee on Technology will evaluate submissions based on uniqueness, originality, functionality, feasibility, and value to orthodontic practices.

“The Ortho Innovator Awards have long been a highlight of the AAO Annual Session,” says Dr Mike Durbin, president of the AAO, in a release. “The program reflects the AAO’s commitment to advancing innovation and technology in orthodontics, and every year, we look forward to seeing the fresh ideas that will drive the future of orthodontics.”

Prizes and OrthoTank Pitch Event

Winners will be announced at the 2027 AAO Annual Session in Vancouver, British Columbia. The grand prize winner in the Market Impact category will receive a $2,000 travel stipend and complimentary exhibition space at the 2028 Annual Session. Grand prize winners in both categories will receive their awards during the 2027 event in Vancouver.

Additionally, applicants seeking investment can apply to participate in the 2027 AAO OrthoTank start-up pitch event. Held live at the Annual Session, the event gives selected start-ups 10 minutes to pitch their innovations to potential investors.