In 1978, Dr. Steven Appel opened a small orthodontic office in BlueGrass Plaza in Northeast Philadelphia.
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Life's A Beach
In 1988, AO moved to a space twice as big– Krewstown Road– where we remained for 30 years! Our iconic beach mural originated here, and there was even real dune fencing with a beachy sand display in the clinic.
Fly Like an Eagle
AO became a nationally recognized innovator in the 90s, and began to attract the attention of local NFL stars. Dr. Steven Appel was the first orthodontist in the region to adopt Invisalign and remained a Top 1% Invisalign provider for decades. AO was also an early adopter of 3D imaging technology like i-CAT, improving diagnostics and patient experience.
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A Family Practice
In 2013, Dr. Andrew Appel joined his father as a partner at AO.
A New Home
AO expanded again and moved to our current, state-of-the-art location on Geiger Road.
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Adversity & Service
In 2016, Dr. Andrew Appel was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. In remission, Dr. Andrew became active in the Dear Jack Foundation, which supports adolescents and young adults undergoing cancer treatment. In 2021, he founded the Smiles for Survivors program at AO, which provides free braces to cancer survivors in the Philadelphia area.
Fresh Perspective
In 2019, Dr. Andi Appel joined the AO family, bringing with her fresh energy and the keys to Dr. Andrew’s heart.
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The Appel Family Expands
In 2021, Drs. Andi and Andrew welcomed their first baby, Ezra.
End of an Era
Dr. Steven Appel retired quietly. Never one to seek the spotlight, he touched the lives of countless Philadelphia families in his 43 years at the helm of AO. All of us at AO are proud stewards of his legacy of human connection and professional excellence.
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Welcoming Friends
In 2021, Dr. Lauren Wulc joined AO. She loves people and is a committed lifelong learner. Our practice is so lucky to have her!
Celebration
Covid canceled the Appels’ 2020 wedding, but the rescheduled 2022 celebration was even more special with one year old Ezra as the star of the show.
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More to love
In 2023, Ezra got the gift of a lifetime: a little brother, Arlo.
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