Since the establishment of the ABO in 1929, the certification process requirements have continued to adjust to the demands of the specialty. Today, the process involves a thorough Written Examination (240 questions) covering all areas of information which an orthodontist should be knowledgeable. Successful completion of this “board exam” allows the orthodontist to proceed to the Clinical Examination where they present detailed case reports from their practice/residency, demonstrating a history of excellence in patient care. These cases are evaluated by a panel of examiners and later discussed during an oral examination where the applicant is tested on a wide variety of academic and clinical topics. After successful completion of these examinations, the orthodontist has officially achieved Board Certification, for a time-limited period. The orthodontist must go through Certification Renewal every 10 years to maintain their certification status by demonstrating this continued level of patient care.

No. All orthodontists must be licensed to practice, but at this time only 1 in 3 orthodontists have continued on to complete Board Certification. The American Board of Orthodontics(ABO) certification process signifies a unique achievement-a significant step beyond the two to three years of advanced education required for a dentist to become a specialist   in orthodontics.

The process requires the orthodontist to demonstrate actual accomplishments in patient care with detailed case reports on the treatment provided for a broad range of patient problems.

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.

Orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth.  Orthodontists understand the complexity of growth development and facial form.  Treatment plans include issues related to the jaw and bite, not just movement of teeth.  There’s a reason orthodontists go to additional years of highly competitive orthodontic school – to learn and perfect their ability in the specialty.  A general dentist is ideal for providing regular oral health check-ups, comparable to your family doctor.  Many dentists offer orthodontic treatment plans, but have not been trained or educated in the area.

A board certified orthodontist is committed to the highest level of patient care including a comprehensive treatment approach to ensure quality work.  And board certified orthodontists must re-new their certification every 10 years to demonstrate their continuous commitment to excellence.