News
2025.9.13
Founding Symposium Scheduled
The Founding Symposium will be held on November 3, 2025.
Details & Registration →
The Association for the Board of Aligner Orthodontics (ABAO) builds the future of Japanese dental care through proper dissemination of aligner orthodontic technology and establishment of industry standards.
Stay updated on our association's activities and the latest industry trends.
The Founding Symposium will be held on November 3, 2025.
Details & Registration →
Orefice Orthodontics
Akiyama Orthodontics
Yokohama Kannai Orthodontics Blanche
Arita Pediatric & Orthodontic Dentistry
E-Smile International Orthodontics
Igarashi Dental Office
RF Orthodontics
Aligner Studio
Kashiwanoha Campus Orthodontics
Super Smile Orthodontics
Kubota Orthodontic Clinic
G&S Partner LLC
Ginza Namiki-dori Sayumi Orthodontics
Aoyama R Orthodontics
Function-T Corporation
Omotesando Takayanagi Orthodontics
Kirameki Medical Corporation
Ginza Orthodontics
Jinbocho Orthodontic Clinic
Fuchu Keyaki-dori Orthodontics
P.G.I.
Shirokane-Takanawa Orthodontics
Fukuoka MA Orthodontics
Murakami Orthodontics
RYU Orthodontic Clinic Koriyama Premier
Smile Plus Orthodontics
SMILE ACCESS Orthodontics
STELLA Orthodontic Clinic
Meieki MA Orthodontics
Ogawa Orthodontics
Kawamura Dental Clinic
Tsukiboshi Dental Clinic
Hashiba Orthodontics
Universal Orthodontic Lab
ABAO offers a progressive membership system that certifies specialized knowledge and skills in aligner orthodontics.
(Associate Member)
(Member)
(Board Candidate)
(Diplomate)
Over the past decade, aligner orthodontics has spread throughout Japan, and many patients now have hope for a new option to "straighten their teeth discreetly and comfortably."
However, behind this, we witness a serious reality. Treatment quality varies significantly between doctors, and many patients suffer from not achieving their expected results.
Social media is flooded with comments like "aligners don't work" and "there are many troubles," leading to misunderstandings about this wonderful treatment method.
In Japan, systematic learning environments and evaluation standards for aligner orthodontics are still developing. Existing academic societies are conducting careful deliberations, and educational systems have room for improvement in connecting with international standards. Due to these circumstances, gaps occasionally emerge between Japan and overseas, including Asian countries.
To fill these gaps for improvement and complement existing efforts, we established ABAO (Association for the Board of Aligner Orthodontics). Working in collaboration with related academic societies and educational institutions, we provide a neutral, internationally connected learning and evaluation platform.
To establish scientifically sound and transparent standards of treatment—recognized even by orthodontic specialists—and to present clear, trustworthy criteria for patients when choosing their doctor.
To build a structured educational system that fosters the next generation and continuously elevates the standard of care.
To collaborate with leading academic societies, universities, and clinicians across the Asia-Pacific region who have pioneered aligner treatment, and to further advance orthodontic care with a strong international presence.
This is not merely about conferring titles. It is about creating a community where members learn from one another and continuously strive for excellence.
This endeavor may be beyond what existing systems can achieve. Yet that is precisely why it is meaningful for us to take the initiative.
Our mission is to make clear who patients can truly trust with their care and to raise aligner orthodontics in Japan to a world-class standard.
Together with colleagues who share the same commitment, we look forward with confidence to shaping this future.
President: Kosei Kaku
Answers to frequently asked questions about our association.
No. Universities are important institutions responsible for academic research and basic education. ABAO respects this while focusing on "clinical standard setting" and "social safety assurance" that universities find difficult to address. Our roles are complementary, not competitive.
While aligner orthodontics has rapidly spread in Japan, educational systems and clinical standards haven't kept pace. This has led to inadequate evaluations based solely on experience or purchase records, resulting in patient troubles. ABAO was established as a mechanism to address this "social crisis."
Exams are created by doctors with extensive clinical experience in aligner treatment, based on internationally recognized textbooks and evidence. ABAO's strength lies in content that is academically grounded yet relevant to actual clinical practice.
No. Membership and examination fees are set at the minimum necessary for system operation. Our purpose is not profit-seeking, but delivering peace of mind and trust to society through our certification system.
Yes. ABAO welcomes all doctors who want to learn aligner treatment properly, regardless of whether they're orthodontic specialists or general practitioners. We particularly aim to be a new option for young doctors to acquire internationally recognized standards.
We are seeking partner companies to support the development
of the aligner orthodontics industry together.
For inquiries to the association, sponsorship opportunities, etc.,
please contact us through our Official LINE.
Association for the Board of Aligner Orthodontics (ABAO)
〒662-0066
7-121 Takatsuka-cho, Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
