No. All orthodontists must be licensed to practice, however board certification is a voluntary achievement that not all orthodontists choose to pursue. In order to become board certified by the ABO, an individual orthodontist is thoroughly tested by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge and clinical skills. The Scenario-based Clinical Examination is the most reliable and valid testing methodology and demonstrates clinical proficiency in an objective manner. 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.

Successful completion of the examination process demonstrates the orthodontist’s personal highest commitment to excellence in orthodontics. It represents a commitment by a licensed specialist that he/she has the necessary knowledge base and skills to treat patients to their personal highest of standards. It exemplifies a practitioner’s commitment to continue to keep abreast of the latest advances in patient care, and to continue to deliver these latest advances to patients. Many orthodontists see it as a demonstration of their dedication to the specialty and their personal highest level of achievement.

Just One. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the only certifying board in the specialty that is recognized by the American Dental Association. The ABO was founded in 1929 and is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. The board’s purpose is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care for the public by promoting excellence through certification, education, and professional collaboration.

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 which an orthodontist should be knowledgeable. Successful completion of this board exam allows the orthodontist to proceed to a Scenario-based Oral Clinical Examination where they are objectively evaluated on their knowledge, abilities, and critical thinking skills and is based on proficiency and clinical excellence in four core performance areas. 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 status by demonstrating a continued level of patient care. For further information about The American Board of Orthodontics and Board Certification, click here.