Are all orthodontists Board Certified?
Not all orthodontists are Board Certified. While every orthodontist must be licensed to practice, just over half pursue Board Certification. Achieving certification through the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is a significant accomplishment, going beyond the required two to three years of advanced education. The process requires orthodontists to:
- Submit detailed case reports that demonstrate their expertise in patient care.
- Showcase their ability to address a wide range of dental issues.
Board certification is a voluntary achievement that all orthodontists do not choose to pursue. In order to become board certified by the ABO, an individual orthodontist is thoroughly interviewed by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills, and judgment.
How many certifying boards are recognized by the American Dental Association in the specialty of orthodontics?
There is only one certifying board recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) in the specialty of orthodontics—the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Established in 1929, the ABO is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. Its mission is to promote exceptional orthodontic care by encouraging excellence in certification, ongoing education, and professional collaboration.
Why would an orthodontist choose to complete this voluntary certification process?
Orthodontists who choose to undergo this process are demonstrating their highest commitment to excellence in orthodontics. Achieving Board Certification signals to both the profession and the public that the orthodontist has the necessary knowledge and clinical skills to deliver superior care.
It shows a commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in the field and continuously providing patients with the best possible treatment options. Many orthodontists pursue certification as a personal achievement and as a mark of their dedication to the specialty.
What steps are required to complete the ABO certification process?
Since its inception in 1929, the ABO certification process has evolved to meet the changing demands of the field. Today, the process includes several key steps:
- Written Examination: A 240-question test covering all areas of orthodontic knowledge.
- Clinical Examination: Candidates present detailed case reports from their practice or residency to demonstrate excellence in patient care.
- Oral Examination: After the case reports are evaluated, they are discussed in an oral exam, testing the candidate’s academic and clinical knowledge.
Upon successful completion of these stages, the orthodontist earns Board Certification, which is time-limited. To maintain this certification, orthodontists must go through the Certification Renewal process every 10 years, demonstrating their continued commitment to patient care.
For more information about the American Board of Orthodontics and Board Certification, click here.
