Are all orthodontists Board Certified?
Not all orthodontists are Board Certified. While every orthodontist must be licensed to practice, only a little over half have taken the additional step to become Board Certified through the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Achieving this certification is a significant milestone that goes beyond the mandatory two to three years of advanced education required to specialize in orthodontics. The certification process involves:
- Presenting detailed case reports that showcase patient care across a range of complex treatment cases.
- Undergoing a rigorous interview by a panel of respected examiners, demonstrating knowledge, clinical skills, and professional judgment.
Board certification is a voluntary pursuit, not required for all orthodontists.
How many certifying boards are recognized by the American Dental Association in orthodontics?
There is only one certifying board recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) in the field of orthodontics—the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Established in 1929, the ABO is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. Its mission is to elevate the standard of orthodontic care by promoting:
- Excellence through certification.
- Continuous education.
- Professional collaboration.
Why would an orthodontist pursue this voluntary certification?
Pursuing Board Certification reflects an orthodontist’s deep commitment to excellence in their field. Successfully completing the certification process demonstrates their dedication to the highest standards of patient care, showcasing their essential knowledge and skills to provide superior treatment.
It also signifies a commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in orthodontic care. For many, this achievement highlights their dedication to the specialty and their continuous effort to deliver the best possible care to their patients.
What does the ABO certification process involve?
Since its inception in 1929, the ABO certification process has evolved to meet the changing
demands of the orthodontic profession. Today, it includes:
- Written Examination: A comprehensive exam consisting of 240 questions covering all areas relevant to orthodontic practice.
- Clinical Examination: Presentation of detailed case reports from the orthodontist’s practice or residency, demonstrating a history of excellence in patient care.
- Oral Examination: An oral test on a wide range of academic and clinical topics.
Upon successful completion, the orthodontist achieves Board Certification for a limited period. To maintain this status, they must renew their certification every 10 years, continually demonstrating their commitment to high-quality patient care.
