Hosts
World Federation of Orthodontists
The purpose of the World Federation of Orthodontists is to advance the art and science of orthodontics throughout the world. As stated in the World Federation of Orthodontists Bylaws, the World Federation of Orthodontists' purpose will be accomplished by fulfilling the following objectives:
- Encourage high standards in orthodontics throughout the world;
- Encourage and assist in the formation of national associations and societies of orthodontists when requested;
- Encourage and assist in the formation of national and regional certifying boards in the field of orthodontics when requested;
- Promote orthodontic research;
- Disseminate scientific information;
- Promote desirable standards of training and certification for orthodontists;
- Organize the International Orthodontic Congress to be held at least once every five years.
The World Federation of Orthodontists was formed at the 4th International Orthodontic Congress (IOC) in San Francisco by 69 organizations from 62 countries on May 15, 1995. The World Federation of Orthodontists now consists of 103 organizations from 100 countries and over 6500 orthodontists who have become World Federation of Orthodontists fellows. World Federation of Orthodontists fellows receive the WFO Gazette two times per year and other benefits of membership which include: international orthodontic specialty recognition, reduced attendance fees at orthodontic meetings throughout the world, a reduced subscription rate for the World Journal of Orthodontics, and inclusion in the electronic WFO International Orthodontic Directory.
Australian Society of Orthodontists
The Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO) is the professional association for orthodontists in Australia. ASO orthodontists must complete a five-year Bachelor degree in Dentistry and a further three-year full-time Masters degree in Orthodontics, which represents more than 4000 hours of specialist post-graduate education.