Industry News

AAO Announces 2026 Supplier of the Year Award Recipients
The American Association of Orthodontists has named American Orthodontics, Henry Schein Orthodontics, and Legally Mine recipients of its 2026 Supplier of the Year Awards. American Orthodontics received Gold, Henry Schein Orthodontics received Silver and Legally Mine received Bronze. Honorees are selected based on priority points earned through activities including exhibiting at AAO and constituent meetings, event sponsorships, and advertising. AAO CEO Trey Lawrence said the program recognizes organizations that support the specialty.

For more information, visit aaoinfo.org.

LightForce Appoints Erica Rogers CEO
LightForce Orthodontics has appointed Erica Rogers CEO as the company expands commercialization of its 3D-printed Generative Braces system. Rogers previously served as CEO of Silk Road Medical, where she led the company through its initial public offering and acquisition by Boston Scientific, and has served on the LightForce board for two years. Founder Alfred Griffin, DMD, PhD, MMSc, will remain chairman and become chief product officer, overseeing product development and innovation.

For more information, visit lf.co.

Dentsply Sirona Expands SureSmile Aligner Capabilities to Mixed Dentition
Dentsply Sirona has expanded SureSmile aligner capabilities to support treatment in both mixed and permanent dentition using the same product and software platform. The update allows clinicians to adjust aligner wear times between one and two weeks based on patient needs and supports earlier intervention without switching appliance systems. According to the company, the platform also supports phased treatment and integrates into existing workflows. The expanded capabilities are available in the United States and Canada.

For more information, visit dentsplysirona.com.

Babin Introduces ORTHO Act for Orthodontic Teledentistry
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin, R-Texas, has introduced the Oversight of Responsible Teledentistry for Healthy Outcomes Act, H.R. 9829, which would establish patient safety standards for orthodontic treatment delivered through teledentistry. The bill would generally require an in-person dental examination before treatment and an in-person confirmation and X-ray review before orthodontic treatment begins. It includes exceptions for emergencies, public health programs, and initial orthodontic screenings. The AAO supports the legislation, saying it provides a framework for responsible teledentistry while protecting patients.

For more information, visit aaoinfo.org.