Ortho Institute Czech Republic
Looking back at the gathering

Ortho Institute is up and running: the innovations moving orthodontics forward

15 October 2026Mama Shelter, Prague
Attendees of the first Ortho Institute gathering at Mama Shelter in Prague

On 15 October 2026 the first Ortho Institute gathering brought orthodontists and specialists interested in the future of modern orthodontics to Mama Shelter in Prague. The main themes were digitalisation and artificial intelligence, running a clinical practice more efficiently, and an introduction to OrthoFX technology — the first and only clear aligner system designed to cut wear time by 50 % and give precise control in the finishing phase of treatment.

Building the future of orthodontics together

Less admin, more automation and above all more room for patients. Tomáš Barták introduced the Smilink ecosystem, a smart digital solution that brings together modern technology, an efficient workflow and seamless communication with patients. Next-generation orthodontics starts right here. Professionals who are interested can try the software for free, take part in its development and shape the future of digital orthodontics together with us.

The first FDA-cleared twelve-hour aligners are now in Czechia

OrthoFX is the first and only clear aligner system cleared by the FDA for twelve hours of continuous daily wear. Two respected doctors from the United States described what that means in everyday practice. Dr. Warshawsky flew to Prague in person, Dr. Norris joined online. Both spoke from their own experience — fewer attachments and aligners, gentler forces on the teeth — and showed what sets the technology apart on their own clinical cases.

These leading specialists spoke at the gathering

Dr. Neil Warshawsky, DDS

Dr. Neil Warshawsky, DDS

Orthodontist · USA

A respected American orthodontist, educator and innovator in digital orthodontics. He contributes to the development of modern orthodontic devices and co-authored several patents on precise bracket placement and bite correction. He works with OrthoFX, whose AirFlex technology he values above all for the innovative HyperElastic material, the shorter aligner wear time it allows (12 hours a day under the recommended regime) and PrecisionFinish, which helps sharpen the final phase of treatment.

AirFlex™ with PrecisionFinish: Enhanced Performance for Finishing Efficiency

Dr. Robert “Tito” Norris

Dr. Robert “Tito” Norris

Stone Oak Orthodontics · San Antonio, Texas

Based in San Antonio, Texas, where he runs Stone Oak Orthodontics. After his specialist training he served as an orthodontist with the US Air Force in Japan and returned to San Antonio in 1998. His practice focuses on innovative treatment procedures and the use of modern technology. He has been using OrthoFX for more than three years and his first patient was himself. Among the main benefits he counts fewer attachments and aligners, gentler forces on the teeth, fewer refinements and fewer visits to the office.

5 Metrics that Separate AirFlex™ Aligners from Standard Aligners

Tomáš Barták

Ortho Institute

A customer-experience specialist and AI architect who brings his experience from digital business into orthodontic practice. At the gathering he introduced the Smilink ecosystem — a digital solution connecting modern technology, an efficient workflow and patient communication — and invited the profession to take part in its development.

Orthodontics: customer experience & AI

Also taking part in the discussion

Rick Matty

COO of OrthoFX

He brings many years of experience developing dental technology and bringing it to market, above all from Invisalign and Ormco. He worked on product development and innovation in orthodontics, including the Invisalign system. He also served in the U.S. Air Force.

Photos from the gathering

Dr. Neil Warshawsky presenting data on standard aligner therapy
Dr. Neil Warshawsky speaking in the hall at Mama Shelter
Discussing a specific case between the talks