Are all orthodontists Board Certified?
Not all orthodontists are Board Certified. While all orthodontists are required to be licensed, only about one in three pursue Board Certification by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). This prestigious certification represents an achievement beyond the advanced education required to specialize in orthodontics. It involves demonstrating excellence in patient care through detailed case reports on various patient issues.
Achieving Board Certification requires passing a rigorous examination and interview process conducted by a panel of esteemed examiners. The process showcases the orthodontist’s expertise, clinical skills, and judgment.
How many certifying boards are recognized by the American Dental Association in orthodontics?
Just one: the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Established in 1929, it is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. The ABO’s mission is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care through certification, education, and professional collaboration.
Why pursue Board Certification?
Orthodontists who have completed the ABO certification process demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in their field. This achievement indicates that the specialist possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to provide top-tier patient care.
Board Certification reflects an ongoing dedication to staying updated with the latest advancements in orthodontic treatments and delivering these innovations to patients. Many orthodontists view this certification as a mark of their commitment and a significant personal and professional accomplishment.
Steps to achieve ABO certification:
Since 1929, the ABO certification process has evolved to meet the demands of the specialty. The current process involves several steps:
- Written Examination: A comprehensive exam with 240 questions covering essential orthodontic knowledge.
- Clinical Examination: Successful candidates present detailed case reports from their practice or residency, demonstrating their excellence in patient care. These cases are assessed by a panel of examiners.
- Oral Examination: An in-depth discussion based on the presented cases, covering various academic and clinical topics.
Orthodontists who pass these examinations earn Board Certification, which is valid for a limited period. To maintain certification, they must undergo a renewal process every ten years, ensuring continued excellence in patient care.
For more information about The American Board of Orthodontics and Board Certification, click here.
