Dr. Payam C. Ataii is an award-winning clinical instructor and a graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, recognized as a leading dental educator with over 28 years of clinical experience. He graduated with distinction, ranking first in his clinical class, and received the prestigious 1996 American College of Prosthodontics Achievement Award, one of only five recipients in the U.S. He also completed an externship at Harvard University and has earned numerous accolades, along with publications in dental research journals. Among his many achievements, Dr. Ataii won the Invisalign™ Summit Case ShootOut and served as a faculty member for Invisalign for over 15 years, until 2019. He was named North America Educator of the Year in 2016 and GP Contributor of the Year in 2017.In his current role as Senior Vice President of Orthodontic Support at Aspen Dental, Dr. Ataii brings his vast expertise to over 2,500 dentists and hygienists within "Aspen Nation," with a focus on clear aligners and sleep apnea.A pioneer and Key Opinion Leader in the clear aligner space, Dr. Ataii has successfully treated more than 3,600 aligner clinical cases. He spent over 15 years as a faculty member at Align Technology, lecturing to general dentists, orthodontists & team members nationwide, and continues to consult for multiple clear aligner companies.At Aspen Dental, Dr. Ataii's mission is to collaborate with doctors and team members to enhance clinical confidence, making clear aligner treatments more predictable and efficient. He will lead the development of a comprehensive patient aligner journey and establish a team of experienced clear aligner doctors available 24/7 to support Aspen providers.In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Ataii is also an inventor, holding a patent for an FDA-cleared oral device, and continues to innovate dental health solutions, helping practices maximize the benefits of treatments for their patients.