The AAO has announced an investment from its Innovation and Transformation Fund. The new recipient of capital from the fund is DentoAI, which offers an AI-powered case acceptance platform and scribe system designed specifically for orthodontic practices.
Founded by an AAO member, Dr. Amanda Cheng, DentoAI automates new patient consultation documentation in real time, generating clinical notes, patient-friendly treatment explanations, and referral letters for collaborating doctors. The technology is designed to reduce administrative tasks in orthodontic offices and help drive improved treatment coordinator performance.
“Supporting innovation in the specialty through start-up investments like DentoAI is a key goal for the AAO,” said AAO President Dr. Steven Siegel. “We hope to build a portfolio of up to 10 companies that will help diversify revenue sources for our organization and build partnerships that can add scale and speed to advancing the success of AAO members.”
Established by the House of Delegates in 2019, the AAO Innovation & Transformation Fund is a key element of the association’s strategic objective to drive transformation and innovation in orthodontics. Funding may be considered to support startup investments and new programs, services, and research within the specialty. Governance of the fund is managed by the AAO Board of Trustees with oversight from the Business Development Committee.
Investment opportunities are reviewed by a team that includes a venture capital consultant, AAO Strategy & Innovation staff, the AAO Business Development Committee, and other consultants with relevant expertise. Factors such as business model, financial projections, and leadership are considered in the evaluation process.
