First and Only WSLO Active Member in Ireland: What This Means for You as a Patient

8 March 2025

Orthodontics is not a static profession. Instead, it evolves continuously—driven by new research, advancing technology, and higher expectations from patients who want excellent results with minimal visibility. As a result, practising orthodontics at the highest level requires an ongoing commitment to learning, precision, and clinical excellence.

Over time, these principles have shaped both my professional journey and the care I provide to every patient.

After achieving certification with the European Board of Aligner Orthodontics and, in parallel, becoming an Active Member of the European Society of Lingual Orthodontics (ESLO), I reached another important milestone in my professional journey. Subsequently, at the 10th Annual WSLO Meeting in Rome, I successfully passed the WSLO Active Membership examination, becoming the first and only orthodontist in Ireland to do so.

For patients, this achievement represents far more than a title. Instead, it serves as a clear marker of experience, expertise, and adherence to the highest international standards in lingual orthodontics.


What Is the World Society of Lingual Orthodontics (WSLO)?

The World Society of Lingual Orthodontics (WSLO) stands as the leading global organisation dedicated exclusively to lingual orthodontics.

In lingual orthodontics, braces are placed on the inner surfaces of the teeth, making treatment completely invisible from the outside. However, while this approach offers unmatched aesthetics, it also represents one of the most technically demanding forms of orthodontic treatment.

For this reason, WSLO exists to ensure that lingual orthodontics is practised at the highest possible level worldwide. Specifically, the society focuses on:

  • Setting strict international clinical standards
  • Advancing research and innovation in invisible orthodontics
  • Ensuring excellent bite function, long-term stability, and predictable outcomes

Consequently, Active Membership of WSLO represents the highest level of recognition in this specialised field.


Why WSLO Active Membership Matters for Patients

Orthodontists earn WSLO Active Membership by consistently demonstrating a very high level of clinical excellence. It is neither honorary nor casually obtained.

To achieve this status, an orthodontist must repeatedly deliver outstanding results across multiple completed lingual orthodontic cases. At every stage, details matter—from diagnosis and treatment planning to finishing, function, and long-term stability.

For patients, this translates into reassurance.

In practical terms, international experts in lingual orthodontics have independently assessed and approved the clinical standards behind your orthodontic treatment.


How the WSLO Membership Examination Works

The WSLO examination focuses entirely on real clinical outcomes rather than theory.

Clinical Case Submission

First, candidates submit a portfolio of fully completed lingual orthodontic cases that clearly demonstrate:

  • Accurate diagnosis and sound treatment planning
  • Precise placement of lingual brackets
  • Mastery of lingual biomechanics
  • Effective alignment and space closure
  • Excellent finishing and bite detail
  • Stable, functional, and aesthetic results

Only cases that meet the highest standards progress to formal review.

Detailed Records and Documentation

Next, each case must include comprehensive records, such as:

  • Pre-treatment, mid-treatment, and post-treatment photographs
  • X-rays and cephalometric analysis
  • Study models or digital scans
  • A clear explanation of the treatment mechanics used
  • A reflective assessment of outcomes and stability

Expert Review and Oral Examination

Finally, an international panel of experienced lingual orthodontists reviews all submissions. In selected cases, candidates must also defend their work in an oral examination, clearly explaining clinical decisions and problem-solving strategies.


What This Means for Patients in Dublin and Ireland

By achieving Active Membership of the World Society of Lingual Orthodontics, I confirm that patients under my care receive treatment that meets the highest international standards.

Lingual orthodontics is considerably more complex than conventional braces or aligners. Nevertheless, when performed correctly, it offers:

  • Completely invisible orthodontic treatment
  • Fully customised appliances
  • Precise control of tooth movement
  • Excellent aesthetic and functional outcomes

As a result, patients seeking lingual orthodontics in Dublin can now access world-class care here in Ireland, without the need to travel abroad.


A Personal Commitment to Excellence

As orthodontics continues to evolve, excellence depends on ongoing education, honest self-assessment, and international collaboration.

Through active involvement with WSLO and ESLO, I ensure that my clinical practice remains at the forefront of modern orthodontics. More importantly, this involvement allows my patients to benefit directly from that expertise.

Accordingly, I remain fully committed to delivering precise, evidence-based, and discreet orthodontic treatment for patients in Dublin and across Ireland.


Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the journey to WSLO Active Membership required years of focused experience, meticulous case preparation, and an uncompromising attention to detail. However, the true value of this achievement lies in what it offers patients: confidence, precision, and world-class care.

If you are considering lingual braces or invisible orthodontic treatment in Dublin, expert hands will deliver your care from start to finish.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

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I recommend and prescribe orthodontic treatments to my patients as if they were my own family and I value meaningful relationships based on communication, confidence and trust.

Dr Erfan Salloum

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