Align Technology Pledges $1 Million to Support AAO Foundation

Align Technology will give $1 million over the next 5 years to the AAOF to help advance orthodontic education and research programs.

Align Technology announced a $1 million donation to the American Association of Orthodontists Foundation (AAOF), the charitable arm of the American Association of Orthodontists.

The donation will be delivered in installments over five years, beginning in December 2021.

“Align continues to be transformative in clinical orthodontics, in generosity, and in its support of the science of orthodontics,” said Orhan C. Tuncay, DMD, president, AAOF board of directors. “The AAO Foundation board of directors is grateful for Align’s recent $1 million gift to support the science of orthodontics. We are also thankful for the strong relationship between the Board and Align in preparing for the future of orthodontics.”

The AAOF aims to advance the orthodontic specialty by supporting quality education and research that leads to excellence in patient care.

Since 1994, the AAO Foundation Awards Program has provided $14.6 million in funding, which has supported 264 Fellowship awards, 303 research awards, and publication of over 100 articles and abstracts supporting ongoing professional advancement opportunities in the orthodontics field.

The AAOF is committed to helping those in need with disaster relief for orthodontic practices and donated orthodontic services for children who lack care access.

Align has been a top corporate partner of the AAOF since 2017 and has contributed to a range of education and research programs provided by the AAOF. Currently, Align Technology vice president and general manager US Frank Quinn holds a seat on the AAOF board of directors.

“Align Technology is focused on innovation that will advance the future of orthodontics to transform smiles and change lives,” said Simon Beard, Align Technology senior vice president and managing director of the Americas region. “We are proud to be a long-time partner of the AAOF and support orthodontic education and research programs that will benefit orthodontic treatment and support orthodontists across all stages of their careers.”