Midwestern Society of Orthodontists

Advocacy doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because people step up and support the work behind the scenes.

Right now, the AAOPAC has raised $444,357.03 this fiscal year, but we’re still $15,642.97 away from the AAOPAC Board’s goal of $460,000 by May 31.

Following a successful Annual Session, we’re entering an exciting year for advocacy and continuing to build momentum that protects and advances our profession.

Every contribution helps strengthen our collective voice.

Donate today: https://www2.aaoinfo.org/advocacy/aao-pac/

At the recent Ad Interim meeting, the MSO Board received updates from AAO staff on current initiatives and a special report from the AAO Foundation. AAOF Vice President Brett Schott and AAOF President-Elect — and proud MSO member — Dr. James Klarsch joined the meeting to share progress on the For the Future campaign.

The For the Future campaign supports orthodontic faculty through scholarships that help supplement their salaries — sustaining the educators who train the next generation of orthodontists.

The MSO Board is proud to back this initiative with a formal pledge. MSO President Dr. Willett presented the first of three annual contributions at the meeting, joined by Dr. Klarsch and Brett Schott.

MSO's multi-year pledge: contribution 1 of 3 presented at the Ad Interim meeting

Attract Top Talent With Benefits from Perfect401(k)

When you want to focus on your patients and your business, you might think offering employee retirement plans can be expensive or difficult.Perfect401(k), an AAO-endorsed partner, understands the unique challenges and opportunities faced by orthodontic practices, with plans that are effective and efficient tokeep your focus where you want it: on your business.

Contact https://aao.perfect401k.comto take the first step toward a secure financial future.

The Ad Interim meeting marked the end of an era — and the beginning of an exciting new chapter. After serving as Trustee to the AAO Board of Trustees since 2017, Dr. Mike Durbin attended his final MSO meeting in that role, as he prepares to step into the position of 2026–2027 AAO President at the Annual Session this spring in Orlando.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Durbin has been a dedicated advocate for the MSO and a steadfast leader within the AAO — consistent, impactful, and deeply committed to the orthodontic profession.

"The MSO Board extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Durbin for his years of service, leadership, and unwavering support."

Registration is open for our annual meeting in Nashville. All doctors who complete their online registration by Monday, June 1, 2026 will be entered into a random drawing for a complimentary 3-Night stay at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel! Someone's gotta win -- might as well be YOU!

With so much to see and do, you won't want to miss this great event! We encourage you to book your flights early to take advantage of lower price fares, start planning your trip to Music City today! https://ssortho.org/sso-2026/

Dr. Emily Willett, serving as Delegation Chair, recently led a review of all resolutions that will be presented at the House of Delegates (HOD) during the upcoming American Association of Orthodontists Annual Session in Orlando (April 30 – May 3).

The MSO delegation plays an important role in representing members and contributing to decisions that help shape the future of the profession.

The delegation includes Vice Chair Dr. Jahnavi Rao, Dr. Spencer Pope, Dr. Jenna Walburn, Dr. Bronwen Richards, Dr. John Kittleson, Dr. Melissa Bernhardt, with Alternate Delegates Dr. Dennis Sommers and Dr. Michael LaFerla.

Register NOW for the AAO Annual Session in Sunny Orlando Florida!

We’re heading to Nashville 🎶 — and you’re invited!
Registration for the SSO + MSO 2026 Annual Session is officially OPEN.
Don’t miss top-tier education, networking, and a little Music City magic.
👉 Secure your spot now: https://ssortho.org/sso-2026/

Malpractice claims can present significant challenges for orthodontic practices, but by understanding the common pitfalls that lead to malpractice claims and implementing proactive risk management strategies, orthodontists can better safeguard their practices and deliver safer, more transparent patient care.

Learn more: https://aao-insurance.com/blog/6-most-common-malpractice-claims-orthodontists-face-and-how-to-prevent-them-at-your-practice/

Dr. Emily Willett, President of the Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, presided over the 2026 MSO Ad Interim Meeting held earlier this month at the American Association of Orthodontists Headquarters in St. Louis.

MSO leadership and directors gathered to collaborate, share insights, and continue advancing the organization’s mission and impact within the orthodontic community.

📸 Pictured: MSO Board of Directors, Delegates, and leadership team
(Not pictured: Dr. Katherine Kazak and Dr. Katherine Higgins)

National Facial Protection Month: �Protect Your Patients With Shock Doctor

April is National Facial Protection Month, making it a great time to remind patients, parents, and coaches about the need for proper safety gear — especially for those in orthodontic treatment.

Because protecting smiles during sports is a key element of orthodontic treatment, AAO Endorsed Partner Shock Doctor offers mouthguards designed specifically for orthodontic patients.

Shock Doctor’s innovative Braces Fit Mouthguards provide comfort, best-in-class sports protection, and a secure fit for orthodontic patients. They’re designed for easy breathing, clear speaking, and superior impact protection.

These mouthguards adapt to shifting teeth, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit, and are perfect for high-impact sports like football, baseball, and hockey

https://www.shockdoctor.com/pages/shock-doctor-partners-with-aao?