As a specialized agency, AAO Services, Inc. grants the AAO Voluntary Certification Program ® for orthodontic clinical assistants who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and proficiency. Staff members who meet the requirements of the program will be recognized for their knowledge and experience by the designation Specialized Orthodontic Assistant® (SOA).
The voluntary certification program is part of the AAO’s response to membership needs assessment surveys, in which members indicated a clear desire for the AAO to assist with staff training, staff recruitment and staff retention.
- Voluntary Certification Exam
Click on this link to create an account on the test site. If you do not receive your confirmation email, please contact Barb Simon by email at bsimon@aaortho.org or (314) 993-1700, ext. 588.
- Download AAO Voluntary Certification Program ® Application (PDF)
- Download AAO Voluntary Certification Program ® Experience in Orthodontic Assisting Form (PDF)
For additional information contact the AAO Education Department.
Above is a photo of 18 of the 21 Specialized Orthodontic Assistants ® from the office of Apple Orthodontix. Left to Right Front Row: Chelsie Odom, Miriam Castro, Vy Nguyen, Angela Hernandez, Rebeca Sanchez Chavez, Martha Manriquez, Minerva Villano, Gui Fen (Jane) Jin, Catrina Martinez, Gabriela Valverde, Mandi Vergara. Left to Right Back Row: Kelly Gere, Jamie Perry, Meredith Turner, Eva Robins, Dayna Stephan, Cassie Tena, Carla Arnold. Not pictured: Courtney Roof, Laura Wade, and Joy Coplen.
The practice further recognized each one by presenting individualized engraved awards to keep at their work station. Way to go!