As a practicing orthodontist in Texas, when you become a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), your membership also automatically includes the Southern Society of Orthodontists (SSO)—your regional association—and the Texas Association of Orthodontists (TAO)—your state component.

This tiered structure ensures that you’re supported at the national, regional, and state levels with advocacy, education, networking, and professional resources tailored to each scope of your work.

What Does This Mean for You?

• National Level – AAO
  The AAO is your national professional organization. It advocates for orthodontists at the federal level, provides world-class continuing education, offers legal and practice management resources, and gives you access to the latest clinical research and innovations.

https://www2.aaoinfo.org/membership/becoming-an-aao-member/

You can review your membership status with AAO by calling AAO Member Service Center at 314-993-1700 (option 0) or [email protected].

For questions, please contact the AAO Member Service Center at [email protected].

• Regional Level – SSO
  The Southern Society of Orthodontists represents members across several southern states, including Texas. SSO hosts regional conferences and CE events and fosters collaboration across the region.

https://ssortho.org/membership/benefits/

The annual SSO membership conference will take place in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 6-8, 2025.

Register here:

https://ssortho.org/sso-2025/

• State Level – TAO
  The Texas Association of Orthodontists is your local professional home. TAO works on state-specific legislation and regulatory issues that directly affect your practice in Texas. TAO also offers local networking opportunities, community outreach programs, and support in building awareness of the value of seeing a trained orthodontic specialist.

We’re excited to host two Texas Members-Only events during the upcoming Southern Society of Orthodontists (SSO) Annual Meeting — and we hope to see you there!

Both events will be at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk. Please RSVP by visiting Here

🎉TAO After Party

Date: Thursday, November 6 | Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Immediately following the SSO Exhibit Hall Happy Hour, join us for a relaxed and fun evening with your fellow Texas orthodontists.

🗓️TAO Business Meeting & Lunch

Date: Friday, November 7 | Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

All TAO members are encouraged to attend this important Business Meeting. Come hear the latest updates, share your voice, and enjoy lunch with your colleagues.

Active involvement in the Texas Association of Orthodontists (TAO) can benefit you personally and professionally.

• Networking Opportunities: By actively participating in TAO events, committees, and discussions, you expand your professional network significantly. Networking with other orthodontists opens doors to potential collaborations, referrals, and mentorship opportunities. Building relationships with colleagues across Texas can also provide valuable insights and perspectives that can enrich your practice.
• Access to Expertise and Resources: Engaging with fellow orthodontists within TAO gives you access to a diverse pool of expertise and resources. Whether you have clinical questions, need guidance on practice management, or seek advice on professional development, you’ll find a supportive community ready to assist you. Through shared knowledge and experiences, you can overcome challenges more effectively and continue to grow as a practitioner.
• Staying Updated on Industry Trends: TAO is a hub for staying informed about the latest industry trends, research findings, and technological advancements in orthodontics. By actively participating in association activities, you’ll have firsthand access to cutting-edge information and insights to help you stay ahead of the curve. This knowledge empowers you to adopt new techniques, incorporate innovative technologies, and deliver your patients the highest standard of care.
• Leadership Development Opportunities: Taking on leadership roles within TAO offers numerous benefits for your professional growth. Serving on committees, task forces, or even the board of directors not only allows you to contribute to the direction of the association but also helps you develop essential leadership skills such as communication, strategic thinking, and collaboration. These leadership experiences can be invaluable for advancing your career, enhancing your credibility, and expanding your influence within the orthodontic community.

Personal Fulfillment and Satisfaction: Beyond the tangible benefits, active TAO involvement can bring personal fulfillment and satisfaction. By contributing to the collective advancement of the orthodontic profession, you become part of something larger than yourself. Making meaningful connections, sharing knowledge, and making a positive impact on the profession can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.