WELCOME FROM THE ASO
In this edition, the Practice Management section explores key sector developments that are essential for you and your team. Topics include Australia’s new Cyber Security Act and recent legal updates regarding the employment of contractors.
We’re also proud to feature a scoping review by Dr Mimi Ngo, a third-year postgraduate student, titled Navigating the Digital Dialogue: Social Media and Orthognathic Surgery Information. This insightful piece discusses the opportunities and challenges orthodontic professionals face when creating and sharing social media content that supports patients on informed, realistic treatment journeys.
Don't forget to mark your calendar for the 30th Australian Orthodontic Congress, taking place in Melbourne from 20–23 May 2026. More details will be available soon.
A heartfelt thank you to our industry partners and guest contributors—your continued support helps us deliver a publication that is both engaging and informative.
We hope you enjoy this issue.
Dr Francis Wong
ASO Federal Treasurer
is an aesthetic direct bond appliance for Class II Correction. It’s universal design fits both sides of the maxillary arch. The free-moving bar and socket control molar rotation and creates space between laterals and cuspids or cuspids and premolars.
WHY INVISALIGN® MANDIBULAR ADVANCEMENT FEATURING OCCLUSAL BLOCKS - A CLOSER LOOK FOR KIDS AND TEENS
As orthodontic technology continues to evolve, so does tools available to help treat younger patients. One worth a closer look is the Invisalign® System with Mandibular Advancement featuring Occlusal Blocks.
Introduced in ANZ in April 2025, it is Align Technology’s first clear aligner product to incorporate integrated solid occlusal blocks. The blocks enhance product features available for mandibular engagement with Invisalign clear aligners, making Invisalign clear aligners a versatile treatment solution for different Class II malocclusions, including deep bite or Class II Division 2.
The Clinical Benefits
For doctors, Mandibular Advancement Occlusal Blocks, offers control over mandibular positioning, bite opening, and simultaneous teeth alignment, allowing for guidance of jaw growth and occlusal adjustments in tandem for growing patients.
By incorporating solid blocks directly into Invisalign clear aligners which then enables controlled mandibular advancement while simultaneously addressing orthodontic treatment requirements.
Additionally, the system streamlines treatment processes, with the use of ClinCheck® software for digital treatment planning to enhance treatment efficiency, it allows for visualising and sequencing of both mandibular advancement and tooth movements together with precision. The level of mandibular control and simultaneous tooth movement may reduce treatment time and help avoid the need for bulky appliances like Twin Blocks or Herbst devices.
A Treatment For Kids and Teens
Beyond comfort and aesthetics, the Invisalign® System allows for more efficient and predictable treatment outcomes1
For both kids and teens, Invisalign® clear aligners with Mandibular Advancement featuring Occlusal Blocks provide a modern, discreet, and less intrusive way to undergo mandibular correction when required as part of their orthodontic treatment plan.
As more families seek less intrusive, discreet orthodontic options, the Invisalign® System with Mandibular Advancement featuring Occlusal Blocks presents an exciting combination of innovation and practicality.
For more information, contact your Invisalign® Practice Development Manager or ANZ Customer Support on 1800 468 472.
This article was written by Invisalign Australia Pty Limited
1. Compared to Invisalign aligners previously made from single-layer (EX30) material. SmartTrack material and SmartForce features are clinically proven to improve control of tooth movement with Invisalign clear aligners. Data on file at Align Technology as of March 27, 2015
The Invisalign® System with mandibular advancement with occlusal blocks is a series of clear plastic removable orthodontic aligners that gently advance and hold the mandible whilst simultaneously moving teeth. This product is not available for purchase by the general public. However, this product is available for purchase from an Invisalign trained dentist or orthodontist. Invisalign Australia Pty Limited, Sydney Australia and Invisalign NZ Ltd, Christchurch New Zealand. ClinCheck® is a proprietary 3D computer application for depicting and viewing an orthodontic treatment plan. This product is not available for purchase by the general public. Invisalign Australia Pty Limited, Sydney Australia and Invisalign NZ Ltd, Christchurch New Zealand.
invis is for kids .
te insertion and removal
• Palatal region with customised thickness for patient comfort
• Smooth lingual surface intended for patient comfort
Invisalign® mandibular advancement featuring occlusal blocks .
• 5mm fixed block height holds and maintains the jaw in a for ward position
• Laser-welded solid blocks for structural rigidit y and durabilit y
• Attachments are allowed on the teeth under the blocks to facilitate leveling and other movements or to prevent unwanted movements .
Are you treating younger patients with the latest available products and features in the Invisalign System portfolio? Speak to the dedicated Invisalign ANZ team to explore the option to integrate Invisalign Palatal Expanders or mandibular advancement occlusal block features to your practice and treatments
E xpress your interest , scan the Q R , or contact your local Invisalign Practice Development Manager
WHAT AUSTRALIA’S NEW CYBER SECURITY ACT MEANS FOR YOUR PRACTICE – AND HOW TO PREPARE
Andrew Lawrence, CEO, de.iterate
The introduction of the Cyber Security Act marks a pivotal shift in how Australia addresses digital risk. While headlines have largely focused on its impact on critical infrastructure and large enterprises, the reality is that the new legislation will touch businesses of all sizes, including small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs).
This is a wake-up call for the sector. Cyber security is no longer a ‘nice to have’—it’s a business essential, and the new Act sets a clear direction: cyber resilience is a shared responsibility.
What Is the Cyber Security Act?
The Cyber Security Act 2025 (CSA) is part of the federal government’s broader 2023–2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy, aimed at making Australia the most cyber secure nation in the world by the end of the decade.
The Act introduces a new legislative framework to replace and expand upon the previous Security of Critical Infrastructure Act and supplements the obligations already in place under the Privacy Act and industry-specific regulations. Its purpose is to address the increasing frequency, severity and complexity of cyber threats faced by Australian organisations, both public and private.
While much of the attention centres on critical infrastructure sectors (such as healthcare, energy, transport and telecommunications), the Act introduces a series of ‘graduated’ regulatory obligations that will scale over time to include a broader range of sectors and entities, particularly those involved in managing personal data, digital supply chains or essential services.
Why Was It Introduced?
The Australian Government has been clear: cybercrime is a national security issue and an economic risk. In 2023 alone, the Australian
Signals Directorate (ASD) responded to over 1,100 cyber incidents, with small businesses representing a disproportionate number of victims.
High-profile breaches at large enterprises have shown how quickly consumer trust can be eroded. But it’s small businesses , which often lack the resources, expertise or infrastructure of their larger counterparts, that are most vulnerable. The Act was introduced to:
• Strengthen national cyber resilience across all sectors, not just critical infrastructure
• Improve incident reporting and intelligence sharing
• Drive uplift in baseline security standards
• Create a more coordinated national response to major cyber incidents
Put simply, the Act signals a shift from reactive compliance to proactive, integrated cyber risk management.
What
Does This Mean for Small Businesses?
If you’re a small business owner, you may be wondering whether the Cyber Security Act applies to you. While the initial obligations target highrisk sectors and systems, the government has been explicit in its intention to cascade security expectations across the economy.
Here’s what small businesses need to know.
1. You may be in scope, directly or indirectly. Even if your organisation is not regulated directly under the new Act, your partners, suppliers or clients may be. That means you’ll need to demonstrate a level of cyber maturity to retain commercial relationships. This is particularly true for SMEs in government supply chains or professional services.
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2. Mandatory reporting is here, and expanding.
The Act builds on existing incident notification requirements under the Privacy Act and critical infrastructure rules. If your business experiences a cyber incident that could impact customers, operations or systems, you may soon be required to report it within tight timeframes, in some cases, within 12 hours.
3. Baseline cyber standards are the new normal.
Minimum cyber hygiene expectations are no longer optional. Expect to see a push for:
• Multi-factor authentication
• Patch management
• Secure backup and recovery
• Access controls and identity governance
• Staff awareness and training
Failure to meet these baselines could increasingly be seen as negligence—not just poor practice.
4. Insurance, finance and partnerships will demand compliance.
Insurers, banks and enterprise clients are already asking small businesses to prove they have cyber controls in place. Expect more requests for evidence of compliance, including policy documents, risk assessments, and staff training logs.
How Can Small Businesses Prepare?
The most important step is to stop viewing cyber security as a technical issue. It’s a business risk, and managing it is a leadership responsibility. Start by:
• Understanding what data you have, where it is sorted, and how you are protecting it
• Reviewing your current cyber posture, including systems, people, processes and thirdparty relationships
• Developing or updating your incident response plan
• Training your staff in phishing awareness and secure practices
• Keeping your software and systems up to date
• Seeking help from professionals with cyber governance and compliance experience
It doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. But it does need to be deliberate, consistent and aligned with your business operations.
How de.iterate Can Help
At de.iterate, we work with small and mid-sized businesses across Australia to simplify compliance and embed security into everyday operations. Our platform makes it easy to:
• Understand what’s required under the Cyber Security Act and other frameworks like ISO 27001, Essential 8, SOC 2 and the Australian Privacy Act
• Implement policies and controls tailored to your business
• Track compliance progress and gather evidence for reporting
• Prepare for audits or due diligence with minimal disruption
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to mature your existing security posture, we’re here to help you navigate the evolving landscape with practical support, not fear-driven hype.
Author Biography
Andrew Lawrence, CEO, de.iterate
With over 20 years’ experience, Andrew is a passionate information and cyber security leader. Andrew’s expertise spans risk, governance, compliance, strategy, critical infrastructure security, and technology management and architecture. Andrew has worked across diverse industries, from telecommunications through to banking and superannuation. Andrew founded de.iterate in 2021 to make privacy and cyber security stress-free for Australian businesses. The de.iterate compliance platform streamlines certification to standards like ISO 27001, ISO 27701, The Privacy Act, and the ACSC Essential Eight. It encompasses policies, employee training modules, a risk register, a compliance calendar, and reporting tools. For further information, visit: https://deiterate.com/
This article is produced by a third party (not the ASO) for guidance purpose only. Data privacy and cyber security advice should be sought for your Practice’s circumstances. For tailored advice for your Practice, please email hello@deiterate.com
NAVIGATING THE DIGITAL DIALOGUE: SOCIAL MEDIA AND ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY INFORMATION
Dr Mimi Ngo, 3rd year postgraduate orthodontic student, The University of Adelaide
In today’s digital age, social media is a major player in how patients seek and share health information. A scoping review was conducted to evaluate the quality of orthognathic surgery information across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and online forums. The findings highlight both opportunities and challenges for orthodontic professionals aiming to guide patients through informed and realistic treatment journeys.
Patient Experience Dominates, but Quality Lags
Across the 12 studies included, the majority of orthognathic content was generated by patients documenting their personal journeys. These posts, mostly on YouTube and Instagram, tended to attract the most attention and engagement. However, despite their popularity, these narratives often lacked depth in terms of clinical accuracy and comprehensiveness. Key topics such as risks, complication timelines, cost, and postoperative expectations were often omitted or underexplained.
Interestingly, while content from healthcare professionals was rated as higher quality and more technically informative, it was generally less popular. This gap suggests that while patients crave relatable stories, they are also vulnerable to misinformation when credible content is less accessible or engaging.
Measuring Quality and Reliability: Poor to Moderate
The studies used established tools such as DISCERN, the Global Quality Scale (GQS), and the Visual Information and Quality Index (VIQI) to
assess content quality. Results consistently showed poor to moderate ratings across most social media content.
Even videos with higher viewership, such as those from popular users or clinics, frequently lacked accurate or complete information. Complications were rarely discussed in detail, and when they were, their severity or duration was often underestimated.
Advice for Orthodontists
These findings underscore the importance of orthodontists staying attuned to the types of information patients are exposed to online. Here’s how practitioners can respond:
1. Initiate Open Conversations
Ask patients about the content they’ve encountered online. This not only helps correct misinformation but also shows empathy and respect for their autonomy. Acknowledging their research can strengthen the orthodontist–patient relationship.
2. Create or Curate High-Quality Digital Content
Orthodontists are in a prime position to develop engaging, evidence-based content. Videos or posts that combine clinical information with relatable narratives—and use popular hashtags such as #jawsurgery or #genioplasty—can help boost visibility and trust.
3. Guide Patients to Reliable Resources
Given the abundance of low-quality content online, orthodontists should recommend trusted websites, videos, or platforms curated by professional associations. Where possible, provide printed or digital resources during consultations.
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4. Address Full Treatment Pathway in Consultations
Many online gaps identified by the review relate to inadequate pre-treatment discussions. Ensure that in-person consultations cover not only surgical details but also orthodontic phases, recovery, costs, and functional impacts (e.g., breathing, speech, or sleep).
5. Emphasise Emotional Support and Expectations
Patients often turn to social media for reassurance and shared experiences. Orthodontists can integrate emotional and psychological support into care by normalising concerns and providing encouragement through each treatment stage.
Conclusion
Social media is a powerful tool, but one that requires careful navigation. As patients increasingly turn to digital platforms for health information, orthodontists must remain proactive in understanding and addressing what their patients are seeing and feeling. By integrating high-quality education, emotional support, and digital awareness into clinical practice, orthodontists can better support their patients and enhance treatment outcomes in an increasingly connected world.
The quality of orthognathic surgery information on social media: A scoping review
This article is produced by a third party (not the ASO) for guidance purpose only.
CONTRACTOR OR EMPLOYEE – LEGAL UPDATE
Yasmine Healy, Head of Legal Services, ClinLegal
This Legal Update explains changes to the law for practices engaging contractors, and what you can do to minimize risk of your contractor actually being an employee.
In August 2024 the definition of a contractor changed under Fair Work. For a period prior to this time, an Associate was classified as either a contractor or employee based on what the parties agreed when the relationship started. Generally speaking, this meant the words in the written contract were the strongest evidence of the relationship, so that if the contract described the Associate as a contractor, then the Associate was a contractor, regardless of any practical or operational changes or inconsistencies. This assessment is known as the “Start of Relationship Test” and was favoured by employers due to its certainty and reduced administrative management required for any changes.
From August 2024, Fair Work reverted to a multifactorial approach to determine the relationship classification, known as the “Whole of Relationship Test”. This test takes into account the entirety of the relationship between the parties as
well as “real substance, practical reality and true nature of the relationship”. This means that the terms agreed to contractually as well as how the role is carried out in practice are all factors used to classify the relationship, not just the terms of the contract. Where an Associate is described in an agreement to be a contractor, but for example, lacks autonomy in treatment decisions and in how work is done, does not have freedom to select materials and equipment, cannot choose when to work and does not work for anyone else, the Associate is more likely to be classified as an employee and entitled to protections such as from unfair dismissal as well as pay (or backpay) for personal, annual leave, public holidays, notice of termination, to name a few. This can be especially risky for employers because where there is no casual employment contract in place (which will be the case for all contractors) and the Associate works regular hours, the Associate will likely be regarded as a permanent employee attaching further entitlements.
There is however one exception to the new test. A contractor is permitted to “opt out” of the whole relationship test if he/she earns over the high
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income threshold (currently $175 000 annually and expected to increase from 1 July 2025), by providing written notice to the employer. This results in the parties reverting to the Start of Relationship Test to define the relationship, from the date the notice is given, and generally provides more certainty and limits risk for employers. The opt out notice must include a statement of the Associate’s earnings as to ensure that it is above the income threshold. The opt out notice may be revoked by the worker at any point in time after filing by providing a revocation or written notice to the employer, after which the “Whole Relationship Test” becomes applicable to the worker from the date the notice is given. In each working relationship between a contractor and the employer, the contractor may only give one revocation notice for that role.
In other words, if you have Associates who are earning over $175 000 a year then you should
consider requesting them to opt out of the new test. In any case, it will be important to ensure a written contract is in place, that correctly describes the Associate as a contractor.
For further advice on how to minimize the risk of Associates being incorrectly categorized, or for assist in drafting an opt out request or notice, please feel free to contact us info@clinlegal.com au. Members of ClinLegal will shortly have access to the opt out notice through the member portal at no additional fee.
This article is produced by a third party (not the ASO) for guidance purpose only. Legal advice should be sought for your individual circumstances. For tailored advice for your Practice, please email: info@clinlegal.com.au
WHEN CAMOUFLAGE JUST SHOWS ONE’S TRUE COLOURS
Why attempting to please a patient by compromising treatment can risk a lot of heartache, and how orthodontists can help resolve poor aesthetic outcomes
Dr Simon Parsons Dentolegal Consultant at Dental Protection
Achieving improved aesthetics and function are two goals often at the top of the list in a clinician’s treatment objectives for a patient. But what if a patient desires one ahead of the other, yet both issues really need to be addressed? What implications might this have on the treatment outcome and, perhaps, the risk of later criticism of your treatment? Is seeking to treat an aesthetic issue as best as possible without attending to the underlying skeletal, occlusal or functional issues really a good idea? Should orthodontists even consider camouflage in an era of litigation and Dr Google, where patients can critique their treatment publicly?
The concept of camouflage in orthodontics is not new. For reasons of finances, clinical risk (such as anatomical or complex medical or dental histories), patient preference or difficulty in justifying a complex orthodontic and/or orthognathic approach, some degree of camouflage in orthodontics may be acceptable and even prudent. When conducted with a detailed consent process that outlines the limitations of this approach, the appropriate treatment alternatives and the relevant risks and benefits of each, such treatment is usually sound. Specialist orthodontists are trained to evaluate the various options available and can then recommend what is likely to be the best option for an individual patient. Provided a detailed discussion and case workup has occurred prior to seeking written consent for such treatment, the patient’s consent is likely to be valid. Given the patient has been involved in the final decision to proceed with camouflage, a
subsequent complaint remains unlikely unless the results do not meet those predicted in a tangible way.
In one sense, by sticking to the treatment modalities they know, while ensuring realistic expectations of treatment are clearly understood, orthodontists can minimise the risk of a patient’s dissatisfaction.
The same cannot be said at the general dentist level. General dentists have a broader scope to address an aesthetic problem for a patient, given the restorative options at their disposal. At Dental Protection we assist our members in navigating complaints, claims and concerns relating to all aspects of dental treatment and it is becoming increasingly obvious that some general dentists are attempting camouflage, not via orthodontic means, but through indirect restorations. In recent months we have helped manage several cases where dentists have proceeded to heavily cut sound anterior tooth structure to address anterior and unilateral crossbites as well as midline tooth discrepancies. Although in one instance the clinician had some experience in removable aligner therapy, this option was excluded, almost certainly due to cost considerations rather than any concern around the efficacy of that treatment to address the malpositioned teeth. Concerningly, such destruction of enamel and dentine commits the patient to a long term restorative solution, even if the outcome is not ideal, as the irreversible nature of that tooth loss may compromise the scope for later orthodontic management unless even more drastic restorative intervention follows.
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We have experienced reports of restoratively camouflaged patients disliking excessively thick incisal edges when this (ironically) contributes to an increased functional challenge including lip and cheekbiting, lisping and difficulties in incising foods.
Ironically, this also commits patients to lifelong restorative care including repeated replacement of restorations over time, a more expensive option than the far simpler routine replacement of retainers associated with orthodontics.
It is always tempting to treat everything as a nail when the only tool you have at your disposal is a hammer. However, such an approach is clearly indefensible when many other options are available that offer an increased chance of success at often much lower cost, such as orthodontics.
So how can orthodontists help, and should they? Clearly, as general dentists undertake orthodontics and complex aesthetic dentistry to camouflage aesthetic issues for patients, problems will arise from time to time. The assistance of orthodontists is most useful pre-emptively here via education of the orthodontist’s referral network in the risks of complex restorative plans when orthodontics alone might better resolve a patient’s needs and wants. Collaboration between orthodontists and general dentists in a multidisciplinary approach can also be incredibly productive where there is
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an opportunity to plan a final aesthetic outcome and work backwards from there to achieve it. If orthodontists can continue to promote the options they offer at study clubs and other networking events, this will foster ongoing cooperative relationships which will ultimately serve our patients best.
But what if the general dentist’s treatment has derailed? Is it wise to then get involved? While it is impossible to comment on a particular circumstance, an orthodontist’s expertise along with that of a prosthodontist can prove invaluable when an adverse camouflage outcome occurs.
At Dental Protection we value the support of specialist colleagues who work to resolve these cases in the best interests of patients. When an orthodontist is a Dental Protection member, they can be assured of professional guidance and support in navigating these delicate matters with discretion. We’re happy to work through the risks of getting involved and help our members know if it is wise to assist in a particular case. We’re also incredibly grateful to those who agree to work in the best interests of our patients and the profession to sort out the cases that didn’t go to plan.
This article is produced by a third party (not the ASO) for guidance purpose only. Advice should be sought for your Practice’s circumstances.
Orthograd Insights
- ASO’s Recent Graduate Guide
Life after graduation? It’s a lot.
Between job hunting, launching your own practice, and trying to maintain some kind of work-life balance — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
That’s where the ASO comes in.
We’ve put together a quick, nofluff guide built specifically for busy new practitioners. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know about the benefits, support, and opportunities available to you — all in one place.
Whether you're building your career, expanding your network, or just figuring things out, we’ve got your back.
Your future's calling. Let’s make it work.
AOB CERTIFICATION – GETTING MORE OUT OF YOUR PROFESSION
Q&A WITH DR CAROLYN NG (AOB CHAIR)
Q. What is Board certification?
Board certification is a globally recognised hallmark of orthodontic excellence. The Society of Orthodontic Specialty Certifying Boards (SOSCB), a standing committee of the World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO), advocates for board certification as a critical safeguard, ensuring the highest standards in orthodontic care and protecting both the public and the specialty against unqualified practitioners. The Australasian Orthodontic Board (AOB) reinforces professional credibility, fosters peer collaboration and enhances career development and satisfaction.
AOB Certification serves as both an essential resource and a distinguished recognition for those dedicated to advancing orthodontic treatment at the highest level.
Q. What does AOB certification mean for me?
More than a credential, AOB certification offers practitioners personalised and meaningful opportunities for professional growth. Through evidence-based professional development, reflective clinical practice, and anonymous case review and feedback, the structured process strengthens professional confidence, sharpens clinical reasoning, and awards Dental Board of Australia CPD credits – ensuring members remain adaptable and at the forefront of orthodontic care.
Q. How can I achieve more in my profession and career?
Orthodontists striving for greater influence and mastery in shaping both the profession and their careers participate in the AOB by undertaking various key roles.
• Convenors play a vital role in coordinating anonymous peer review and feedback while maintaining consistency across records and reports.
• University Liaisons support orthodontic registrars in attaining certification – a crucial step in preparing the next generation of orthodontists to uphold global standards and safeguard both the public and the specialty.
• Assessors - currently certified peers from Australian and New Zealand - review deidentified cases and evidence-based reports, providing invaluable anonymous feedback and perspectives. In return, they gain a unique opportunity for professional growth through practical reflection and clinical insight, an experience further recognised and rewarded with CPD credits.
• Executive Committee members advocate nationally and globally to ensure that the AOB remains an agile, valuable service that evolves with the needs of ASO members.
Q. What key highlights has the AOB celebrated so far in 2025?
The AOB proudly celebrated the contributions of new Executive Committee members Dr Oyku Dalci and Dr Olivia Rogers at the recent 2025 ASO Foundation Meeting. Dr Dalci further contributes to the legacy of Australian orthodontists who have upheld and promoted international collaboration in her new role as AOB representative to the SOSCB. This role reinforces the Board’s global connections and links AOB members with respected international colleagues, recognised for their dedication to enhancing the quality of orthodontic treatment worldwide. Her leadership ensures the Board’s values resonate far beyond Australian borders, inspiring a shared commitment to excellence in orthodontic treatment. Additionally, Dr Amy Lee and Dr Matthew Kei were honoured for their contributions as Postgraduate Clinical Award assessors.
SHAPE SMILES, CHANGE LIVES: JOIN GIVE A SMILE TODAY
As a young orthodontist, you have the unique opportunity to change lives—not just smiles—by joining the Give a Smile program. Through this initiative you can donate your skills to help children in need access vital orthodontic care they otherwise couldn't afford. Join Give a Smile today and use your talent to make a real, lasting difference.
MENTORING PROGRAM FOR RECENT GRADUATES
The ASO’s Mentoring Program for recent graduates offers a unique opportunity for early-career orthodontists to connect with experienced professionals who are passionate about guiding the next generation.
Designed to foster personal and professional growth, the program creates a supportive environment where mentees can gain valuable insights, build confidence, and navigate the complexities of clinical practice and career development.
By matching mentees with seasoned mentors, the ASO promotes a culture of collaboration, lifelong learning, and community within the orthodontic profession. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to give back, this program is a powerful way to shape the future of orthodontics.
JOIN THE FRONTLINE OF ORTHODONTIC EXCELLENCE: BECOME AN AOJ REVIEWER
Are you passionate about advancing orthodontic knowledge and shaping the future of clinical practice? Become a reviewer for the Australasian Orthodontic Journal (AOJ) and play a vital role in maintaining the high standards of one of the region’s leading openaccess publications. Contribute your expertise, earn CPD points, and stay at the forefront of emerging research—while supporting your profession and your peers.
The Australasian Orthodontic Journal, which is published under the auspices of the Australian Society of Orthodontists, is an open access, free publication that is produced as a yearly volume. There is an ever-increasing need to recruit
members who are willing to review a submitted manuscript in order to determine its merits and to provide feedback to the author(s) and the Journal Editor.
The benefits of reviewing are:
• Obtain CPD points
• Gain up-to-date orthodontic knowledge
• Support the Journal to maintain/improve its quality
• Provide critical feedback to authors and help them improve their manuscript and
• Support the Society
Becoming a reviewer is easy and takes but a few minutes. Simply go to the Journal’s management webpage and register your interest through the registration icon. Your details and preferences will be recorded and you will automatically be added to the reviewer’s list. A review of manuscripts related to your personal interest will be requested of you no more than twice per year. The task of reviewing is not onerous and makes a significant contribution to your knowledge, to the Journal and to the Society.
The Journal’s management page is located at: https://www.editorialmanager.com/aoj/default.aspx
ASOFRE FOUNDATION MEETING
Dr Annu Nangia, ASOFRE Chair
The Australian Society of Orthodontists Foundation for Research and Education (ASOFRE) Foundation Meeting was held at the Grand Chancellor Hotel in Hobart on the 28th + 29th March 2025. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Hobart’s Constitution Dock, over 250 attendees enjoyed the opportunity to take in Tasmania’s stunning scenery and hospitality in addition to the Foundation Meeting.
Since 1961, the FRE has been dedicated to fostering scientific and clinical research to enhance evidence-based orthodontic care in Australia
Funding the ASOFRE
The ASOFRE is the major contributor for research grants and donations for postgraduate students and postdoctoral research fellows at all Australian University based orthodontic programs. Funding is obtained through generous donations from members and industry sponsors, as well as through the Grateful Patient Program. Apart from contributing to world class orthodontic research here in Australia, it allows the ASOFRE to bring in high level academics from overseas to provide intensive educational programs to the post graduate orthodontic students as well as to ASO members, by way of the ASOFRE Foundation Meeting.
Keynote Speaker: Professor Martyn Cobourne
This year’s Foundation Meeting was held in Hobart and the almost 250 attendees were treated to excellence in orthodontics from the engaging
Professor Martyn Cobourne (King’s College, London).
Professor Cobourne’s clinical interests lie in the management of complex orthodontic problems, with particular emphasis on multidisciplinary orthodontic-surgical treatment of patients with non-syndromic facial deformity. He runs a basic science research laboratory investigating craniofacial anomalies at King’s College London and has led multiple randomized controlled trials investigating the clinical efficiency of orthodontic appliances.
Evidence Based Research
Professor Cobourne’s evidence-based lectures covered the topics of early interceptive treatment, looked for any link between orthodontics and airway volume, explored the evidence for adopting new technology, and provided methods in managing missing lateral incisors. He also providing insights from the world of orthodontics as he was taught and to what he does now.
Empowering the Next Generation
The pre–Foundation Meeting student program was a key highlight, providing postgraduate students with an invaluable opportunity to present their research, receive feedback from leading experts, and network with peers from across the region. Supporting and showcasing emerging talent remains a core mission of the Foundation.
Solventum (formerly 3M Australia) was kind enough to be the sponsor of this program, and the ASOFRE acknowledges their significant time and financial contribution in making this happen.
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