Certified Orthodontic Aftercare Facility (COAF)

Standards & Requirements

The Certified Orthodontic Aftercare Facility (COAF) designation is awarded by the American Aligner Society to dental practices that meet the highest standards in long-term orthodontic retention, relapse management, and patient-centered aftercare.

This certification represents a commitment to treating orthodontics not as a one-time event—but as a lifelong continuum of care.

CORE PRINCIPLE

Orthodontic treatment does not end when braces are removed or aligners are completed.

COAF-certified providers are trained and equipped to:

• Monitor patients long-term
• Detect relapse early
• Intervene efficiently using the least invasive solution first
• Preserve alignment for life

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

1. Structured Aftercare Protocols

The facility must implement a tiered orthodontic aftercare system, including:

• Retainer-based stabilization as the first line of defense
• Intermediate correction (e.g., spring or active retainers) for minor relapse
• Clear aligners and/or braces for advanced retreatment

All care must follow a stepwise escalation model designed to minimize cost, time, and invasiveness.

2. Dual-Modality Treatment Capability

The facility must offer both:

• Clear aligner therapy
• Fixed orthodontic appliances (braces)

This ensures treatment decisions are based on clinical need, not product limitation.

3. Orthodontist-Led Oversight

All orthodontic treatment plans must include:

• Review and approval by a licensed orthodontist
• Authority for modification of treatment plans
• Oversight of complex or relapse cases

4. Remote Monitoring & Recall System

The facility must maintain an active system for:

• Routine virtual check-ins
• Periodic in-person evaluations when necessary
• Long-term patient recall and engagement

5. Lifetime Aftercare Access

The facility must provide patients with ongoing access to:

• Replacement retainers
• Maintenance products
• Affordable retreatment options

 

WHAT COAF CERTIFICATION MEANS FOR PATIENTS

• Your orthodontic results are actively protected
• You have a clear path if shifting occurs
• You avoid unnecessary full retreatment
• You are supported for life

 

WHAT COAF CERTIFICATION MEANS FOR PROVIDERS

• A standardized, defensible aftercare model
• Ethical, patient-first treatment decisions
• Integration of modern monitoring systems
• Participation in a network raising the standard of care

CERTIFICATION AUTHORITY

The COAF designation is issued and maintained by the American Aligner Society.

Facilities are subject to periodic review to ensure continued compliance.