ABO Certification
American Board of Orthodontics Doctor Certification
The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) was founded in 1929. It is the oldest and most prestigious specialty board in dentistry. The ABO's aim is to elevate the standards of the practice of orthodontia, to familiarize the public with its aim and ideals, and to protect the public against irresponsible and unqualified practitioners.
The Board upholds four main objectives supported by its mission:
- To evaluate the knowledge and clinical skills of graduates of accredited orthodontic programs by conducting exams and conferring time-limited certificates
- To re-evaluate clinical knowledge and skills through administration of recertification exams throughout a Diplomate's career
- To support the development of quality graduate, postgraduate, and continuing education programs in orthodontics
- To promote and encourage certification expertise throughout the world
Becoming Board Certified
There are many steps to become a board certified orthodontist. First, all orthodontists must first complete a graduate program in dentistry to receive their DDS or DMD (Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine). Then, they must be accepted and attend a competitive residency at a CODA-accredied orthodontic program for an additional two to three years to be trained in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. After completing residency, an orthodontist has the option of becoming board certified. They must pass a rigorous set of written examinations, as well as a comprehensive review of his or her credentials. Once certified, the orthodontist must become recertified every ten years to maintain board-certified status.
What does it mean to be board certified?
A board-certified orthodontist, also known as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, has been voluntarily examined by his or her peers on the basis of knowledge and clinical skills. Becoming board certified signifies the orthodontist's pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence in orthodontics.