English

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

I would like to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation for your continued understanding and support of the Japan Association of Adult Orthodontics (JAAO).

It is my great honor to serve as the Congress President of the 35th Annual Meeting and 4th International Orthodontic Congress of JAAO. I feel a profound sense of responsibility in taking on this role at such an important milestone in the history of our association.

The theme of this congress is:

“Evolution and True Value of Adult Orthodontics
— From Asia to the World”

In recent years, the field of adult orthodontics has undergone remarkable changes. Advances in digital technology, the growing use of clear aligner therapy, applications of CBCT and artificial intelligence, and treatments utilizing temporary anchorage devices (TADs) have all become increasingly integrated into everyday clinical practice.

At the same time, precisely because we are experiencing such rapid technological innovation, I believe it is important to reconsider a fundamental question: What is the true value of adult orthodontic treatment?

Adult orthodontics is not simply about aligning teeth and creating an attractive dentition. It requires a comprehensive approach that considers function, esthetics, and long-term stability, while also taking into account each patient’s age, lifestyle, expectations, and individual values. Our goal should be to provide high-quality orthodontic care that is truly appropriate for each patient.

Adult orthodontics in Japan has developed through the dedication and achievements of many distinguished clinicians and researchers who came before us. JAAO has also played an important role in advancing the field over many years, both clinically and academically. As we mark the milestone of our 35th Annual Meeting, we hope to honor the knowledge and experience accumulated throughout our history while taking a fresh look at adult orthodontics today and sharing new insights that will contribute to the future of clinical practice.

The 4th International Orthodontic Congress will be held in conjunction with the Annual Meeting. We are pleased to welcome distinguished speakers from Japan and around the world, who will address a broad range of topics, from knowledge directly applicable to daily clinical practice to the latest treatment approaches and emerging perspectives. Through this international exchange, we hope not only to share the outstanding clinical and academic achievements developed in Japan with the world, but also to learn from new ideas and advances from abroad.

We also hope that this congress will provide an opportunity for colleagues across generations and regions to come together, exchange ideas about their daily clinical practice, and build new professional relationships. While honoring the distinguished colleagues who have contributed to the development of JAAO, we hope that this meeting will also represent a new step forward for the next generation.

It is our sincere hope that the congress will provide all participants with new knowledge, meaningful encounters, and renewed inspiration for their daily clinical practice. The congress venue is conveniently located within walking distance of Tokyo Station, making it easily accessible from throughout Japan and from overseas.

I sincerely look forward to welcoming you to Tokyo and sharing this memorable occasion with you.

Kiyoshi Tai, DDS, PhD
Congress President
The 35th Annual Meeting and
4th International
Orthodontic Congress of JAAO
Japan Association of
Adult Orthodontics (JAAO)