Service Profile: The Real Reasons Orthodontists Get Sued by AAOIC Staff

Why it matters who’s in your corner

by AAOIC Staff

This content is sponsored by AAOIC The Orthodontists Insurance Company.

No orthodontist expects to be sued. But when a summons arrives, they don’t just need someone who understands professional liability. They need someone who understands orthodontics.

AAOIC The Orthodontists Insurance Company was created by orthodontists, for orthodontists, and after decades of reviewing claims, we’ve seen firsthand where trouble most often starts. So, why do orthodontists most frequently get sued? Our claims data points to these leading allegations:

• Failure to diagnose or manage periodontal disease

• Generalized root resorption

• Impacted or ankylosed teeth, root resorption, or extended treatment time

• Temporomandibular joint complaints, usually paired with other allegations

• Decalcification or cavities, particularly with clear aligners

These aren’t straightforward cases. Claims can involve nuanced clinical decisions that are best evaluated by someone who knows the specialty. At AAOIC, every claim is reviewed by a committee of experienced orthodontists who understand the specialty, the standard of care, and the realities of day-to-day treatment. No claim is ever settled without the insured orthodontist’s consent.

More orthodontists can now access AAOIC coverage
We’ve always believed that every orthodontist deserves specialized protection—which is why AAO membership is no longer required to apply. Eligible orthodontists can now access coverage built specifically for their specialty, regardless of membership status.

Plus, our policyholders are also shareholders. That means they may share in AAOIC’s success through a policyholder dividend paid as a premium credit when declared. In recent years, those dividends have averaged 20% of base premium.

Expanded coverage options
Orthodontists have enough on their plates without juggling multiple insurance providers. AAOIC has expanded beyond malpractice to become a one-stop shop for coverage—offering life, disability, cyber liability, business owners’ policies, workers’ compensation, employment practices liability, and more. Now orthodontists can protect themselves, their families, and their practices all through one company.

For more information, visit AAOICplans.com/InYourCorner or call 800-622-0344.