What Is a Board-Certified Orthodontist?

Orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth — it’s a specialized field requiring advanced training, skill, and precision. Some orthodontists take their expertise to the next level by achieving board certification, a distinction that reflects their dedication to excellent patient care. But what does it really mean to be a board-certified orthodontist, and how does it set these professionals apart?

What Does It Take To Become a Board-Certified Orthodontist?

American Board of Orthodontics certification is a challenging process where orthodontists must prove they have the necessary knowledge, education, and training to go above and beyond for their patients. The requirements are:

1. Complete a four-year post-bachelor dental program to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery or a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree
2. Receive advanced, specialized training with a two- to three-year orthodontic residency
3. Pass the ABO written exam
4. Present in a clinical oral examination that includes actual case reports from the candidate’s practice

An ABO certificate is valid for 10 years. After that period, board-certified orthodontists must take a renewal exam to demonstrate their ongoing competence and adherence to changing care standards.

What Percentage of Orthodontists Are Board-Certified?

As of 2024, approximately 63% of orthodontists who are members of the American Association of Orthodontists have an ABO certification, which is a significant 40% increase from 46% in 2019. This upward trend shows that the orthodontic community’s commitment to providing top-quality patient care and maintaining professional excellence continues to rise.

Does It Matter if an Orthodontist Is Board-Certified?

Board-certified orthodontists have completed additional specialized training beyond dental school. They also keep up with current treatment methods and technology through periodic re-examination. In short, you can be confident that providers with ABO certification have an in-depth understanding of complex case management and orthodontic techniques.

For example, after orthodontists remove braces, they often smooth and reshape teeth with a tooth-filing procedure, or an enameloplasty. However, noncertified orthodontists might lack the knowledge or experience to perform the procedure correctly. This can cause them to remove too much enamel, leading to heightened tooth sensitivity, increased risk of cavities, and additional procedures to repair the damage.

Checking for ABO Certification

After you receive a recommendation or a referral to an orthodontist, the next step is to verify that they have ABO certification:

• Enter the orthodontist’s name in the ABO’s online directory to view their certification status and renewal date.
• Ask the orthodontist’s staff or look for an ABO certificate on display in the office.
• Search for the provider in professional organizations like the AAO to see if their listing highlights board certification.

Although not a definite verification method, an easy way to get started is to check for the ABO logo on your provider’s office signs, business cards, or online profiles. If your orthodontist is not board-certified, you may consider switching orthodontists.

Partner With a Leading Arizona Board-Certified Orthodontist

Orthodontic treatments can be extensive, complex procedures, so it’s important to find a professional who has undergone rigorous training to provide the highest standard of care. In the Queen Creek and San Tan Valley area, trust board-certified orthodontist Dr. Peterson’s expertise and experience with the latest methods to help you achieve a confident, beautiful smile no matter your age. Contact us at Peterson Family Orthodontics if you have questions about ABO certification or to schedule an appointment.