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 and sets the standards of care in orthodontics. The ABO evaluates the orthodontists' knowledge and clinical skills by conducting exams for certification and then re-evaluates through re-certification exams throughout the orthodontists' career. ABO Board Certification is a voluntary credential that represents an orthodontist's personal and public commitment to the standards of orthodontic practice and lifelong learning.
Becoming Board Certified
To become board certified, an orthodontist has to pass a rigorous set of written and clinical examinations, as well as a comprehensive review of his or her credentials. The initial process of becoming board certified can take several years. 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 the Board on the basis of knowledge and clinical skills. Becoming board certified signifies the orthodontist's pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence in orthodontics.