The American Association of Orthodontists is the recognized orthodontic specialty organization in dentistry. Founded in 1900, the basic organizational structure of the orthodontic specialty has been placed on a firm professional foundation. The association has more than 14,600 members worldwide, with about 8,400 active members in the exclusive practice of orthodontics in North America and Canada. Members of the American Association of Orthodontists must meet the educational requirements of the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association for a specialist, which is currently at least two academic years of advanced education in an accredited program.