Are all Orthodontists Board Certified?
No. All Orthodontists must be licensed to practice, but currently, less than half of all Orthodontists have pursued Board Certification. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) certification signifies a unique achievement, beyond the advanced education required to specialize in orthodontics. This process involves demonstrating expert knowledge for a broad range of patient issues and complexities. Board certification is voluntary and not all Orthodontists choose to pursue it, but education has always been a core value to Drs. Giardina and Kray. To achieve ABO board certification, an Orthodontist undergoes a thorough written examination that is reviewed by a panel of esteemed examiners to showcase their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills, and judgment.
How many certifying boards are recognized by the American Dental Association in the specialty of Orthodontics?
Only one: The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Founded in 1929, the ABO is the oldest specialty board in dentistry and is recognized by the American Dental Association. The ABO aims to elevate the quality of orthodontic care by promoting excellence through certification, education, and professional collaboration.
Why would an Orthodontist choose to complete this voluntary certification process?
Successfully completing the ABO certification process demonstrates an orthodontist’s highest commitment to excellence in the field. It signifies that the Orthodontist possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to treat patients to the highest standards. This certification also reflects a dedication to staying updated with the latest advances in patient care and delivering these advances to patients. Many orthodontists view it as a mark of their dedication to the specialty and a high level of personal achievement.
What steps are required to complete the ABO certification process?
Since its establishment in 1929, the ABO certification process has evolved to meet the demands of the specialty. Today, the process includes:
- Written Examination: A comprehensive test with 240 questions covering all areas of orthodontic knowledge.
- Clinical Written Examination: After passing the general written exam, the orthodontist presents for another written exam that provides detailed case presentations with patients from a broad range of complexities. The candidates written responses demonstrate understanding of orthodontics from their history of excellence in patient care. All responses are evaluated by a panel of examiners.
Upon successfully completing these steps, the orthodontist achieves Board Certification for a time-limited period. To maintain certification, the orthodontist must undergo Certification Renewal every 10 years, continually demonstrating high standards of patient care.
