The AAO is delighted to announce that EPIC 4, CORUS Orthodontists and Specialty Smile Partners have achieved “Gold Star” status in a new recognition program designed to support strong AAO membership among orthodontists affiliated with Orthodontic Support Organizations (OSOs), Dental Support Organizations (DSOs), and other large group practices. 

The Gold Star/Bronze Star OSO/DSO Partner Program provides incentives* to organizations achieving a minimum percentage of AAO membership among their affiliated orthodontists. 
 
By an annual qualifying date each year, Gold Star partners must have 95% of their orthodontists holding AAO membership in good standing, while Bronze Star partners must have 85% membership. Eligible organizations must also have at least 20 affiliated orthodontists.  

Gold Star status includes access to incentives such as signage and/or interaction with orthodontists and residents during AAO meetings (including exclusive participation in selected events), and recognition in AAO media outlets and programming for residents. Bronze Star partners will receive many of the same incentives. 
 
“The Gold Star/Bronze Star OSO/DSO Partner Program is intended to recognize large orthodontist employers who are committed to a unified specialty and who support the advancement of the art and science of orthodontics through education, advocacy, and research,” said AAO President Dr. Steven Siegel. “All who are involved in the specialty — including orthodontists affiliated with OSOs and DSOs, and the OSO and DSO organizations themselves — benefit from AAO membership.”  

Organizations interested in participating in the Gold Star/Bronze Star OSO/DSO Partner Program, may access eligibility requirements and incentive information from: 
Interest Form for Participating Organizations  
 
*Benefits available to participating organizations do not include membership dues discounts or incentives for individual orthodontists, nor are the organizations considered AAO members. 

Background Information from Gold Star Companies 

EPIC4 Specialty Partners  
EPIC4 Specialty Partners is a doctor‑led platform partnering with orthodontic and pediatric specialists to preserve clinical autonomy while delivering enterprise operations, capital, and transparent equity pathways. We enable practices to grow sustainably, boosting patient access, operational efficiency, and financial performance so clinicians can focus on care while sharing in long‑term upside.    

For more information about EPIC4 Specialty Partners, visit www.goepic4.com.     

CORUS Orthodontists   
Corus Orthodontists is a North American orthodontic partnership network that brings together leading doctor-led practices to share resources, expertise, and a commitment to delivering exceptional patient care. With locations across Canada and the United States, Corus supports its community of practices in clinical excellence, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth.     

For more information about Corus Orthodontists, visit www.corusortho.com.  

Specialty Smile Partners   
We represent a close-knit community of hometown pediatric dentists and orthodontists committed to creating exceptional patient experiences every time. Specialty Smile Partners supports the business aspects of each practice, allowing our doctors’ full attention to remain with their patients. Whether you’re looking to join an organization committed to patient-centered care or dream of owning your own practice one day, Specialty Smile Partners can help you achieve your personal and professional goals, no matter your path.     

For more information about Specialty Smile Partners, visit www.specialtysmilepartners.com.