Are All Orthodontists Board-Certified?
Not all orthodontists are board-certified, but they are all required to be licensed to practice. More than half of orthodontists, however, choose to pursue board certification. This process goes beyond the required two to three years of advanced education to become an orthodontic specialist. It requires orthodontists to demonstrate their expertise in patient care through detailed case reports for a broad range of conditions.
- Board certification is a voluntary achievement that not all orthodontists pursue.
- The certification process includes interviews with a panel of highly respected examiners to evaluate knowledge, clinical skills, and judgment.
How Many Certifying Boards Are Recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) in Orthodontics?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes only one certifying board for 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 quality of orthodontic care by promoting excellence through certification, education, and professional collaboration. The ABO remains the only certifying board in orthodontics recognized by the ADA.
Why Would an Orthodontist Choose to Complete This Voluntary Certification Process?
Orthodontists who choose to complete the ABO certification process demonstrate a commitment to excellence in their field. By successfully completing the exam, they show they have the knowledge, skills, and judgment to treat patients to the highest standards. The certification also reflects a commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in orthodontic care and delivering these advancements to patients.
- Certification represents a practitioner’s dedication to the highest level of patient care.
- It shows a commitment to continuous learning and adapting to new orthodontic techniques.
- Many orthodontists see it as an achievement and a demonstration of their professional dedication.
What Steps Are Required to Complete the ABO Certification Process?
The ABO certification process has evolved over the years to meet the demands of the specialty. Today, it involves several key steps:
- Written Examination: A 240-question exam that covers all aspects of orthodontic knowledge.
- Clinical Examination: Orthodontists present detailed case reports from their practice to demonstrate a history of excellence in patient care.
- Oral Examination: Examiners discuss the submitted cases and test the applicant’s clinical and academic knowledge on a variety of topics.
After successfully completing these exams, an orthodontist is awarded Board Certification for a limited period. Certification must be renewed every 10 years by demonstrating continued excellence in patient care.
- Certification renewal ensures that the orthodontist’s level of care remains at the highest standard.
