About Board Certification

Are All Orthodontists Board Certified?

No. While every orthodontist must hold a dental license and complete specialty training, only about one in three take the additional voluntary step to pursue board certification through the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO).

ABO certification represents a level of mastery that exceeds the typical two to three years of post-doctoral orthodontic education.

To achieve this credential, an orthodontist must:

• Show real treatment outcomes by presenting detailed case reports that represent a variety of orthodontic challenges

• Pass an in-depth written exam covering all core areas of orthodontic knowledge

• Complete a clinical evaluation with documented, high-quality results

• Participate in an oral examination led by a respected panel of ABO examiners to assess judgment, diagnostic reasoning, and overall clinical expertise

Becoming board-certified is voluntary, and it reflects a doctor’s dedication to practicing at the highest professional and ethical level.

The Only Recognized Orthodontic Board: The ABO

There is only one certifying board acknowledged by the American Dental Association for the orthodontic specialty:
The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO).

Founded in 1929, it is the oldest specialty board in dentistry, built on a mission to elevate the standard of orthodontic care nationwide. The ABO focuses on:

• Promoting excellence in orthodontic treatment

• Encouraging continued clinical education

• Supporting collaboration among orthodontic specialists

Its long history, rigorous standards, and ADA recognition make it the gold standard for certifying orthodontists.

Why Do Orthodontists Pursue Board Certification?

If board certification is voluntary, why do some orthodontists dedicate years to earn it?

Because it reflects the highest level of commitment to exceptional patient care.

Choosing to complete the ABO process demonstrates that an orthodontist:

• Is committed to professional excellence

• Has mastered the knowledge and technical skills needed to deliver high-quality orthodontic treatment

• Actively keeps up with the newest advances in orthodontics

• Demonstrates leadership and dedication to the specialty

• Prioritizes patient outcomes at the most professional level

For parents and adults searching for the right orthodontist, board certification is a meaningful indicator of competency, credibility, and dedication.

Maintaining Board Certification

Board certification is not a one-and-done achievement.
Orthodontists must complete Certification Renewal every 10 years.

This ensures:

• Continued excellence in patient care

• Ongoing commitment to the latest orthodontic techniques

• High treatment standards throughout their career

For patients and parents, this is invaluable; it means the orthodontist remains committed to lifelong learning and consistent quality.

Why Board Certification Matters for Patients

Choosing a board certified orthodontist gives families and adults confidence that their provider:

• Delivers clinically proven results

• Has demonstrated expertise across diverse treatment needs

• Stays current with modern orthodontic technology and research

• Maintains the highest standards of care

• Values long-term, high-quality smiles for every age

In an era where patients rely heavily on voice search, AI-powered snippets, and Google’s generative results, board certification stands out as a trust factor that both search engines and families value.

What Does the ABO Certification Process Involve?

The ABO certification process has evolved since 1929, but its purpose remains the same: ensure orthodontists meet the highest standards in clinical care.

Today, the certification journey includes multiple rigorous steps designed to evaluate both academic knowledge and real-world treatment quality.