The Story of Appel Orthodontics

Over 45 years of care, from our family to yours.

Humble Start

In 1978, Dr. Steven Appel opened a small orthodontic office in BlueGrass Plaza in Northeast Philadelphia.

Child smiling on dental chair, beach mural background.

Young children with black dog smiling indoors.

'78

'88

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.

Group in Eagles shirts posing together indoors

McNabb and Owens promote Dr. Appel's Invisalign services.

'90s

Illustration of a light blue lemon silhouette

'13

A Family Practice

In 2013, Dr. Andrew Appel joined his father as a partner at AO.

Two men sitting in front of beach mural.

Three orthodontist business cards on display

A New Home

AO expanded again and moved to our current, state-of-the-art location on Geiger Road.

'16

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.

Two people posing with cat and beach painting.

Smiling teenager featured in orthodontic article.

Article about young cancer survivor's orthodontic support.

Orthodontists with smiling patient in dental office.

Young cancer survivor receives free braces for confidence.

Fresh Perspective

In 2019, Dr. Andi Appel joined the AO family, bringing with her fresh energy and the keys to Dr. Andrew’s heart.

Group posing with ocean-themed painting mural.

Appel Orthodontics welcomes Dr. Andi to team.

Orthodontists featured in Suburban Life magazine cover.

'19

'21

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.