ABO CERTIFICATION

AMERICAN BOARD OF ORTHODONTICS DOCTOR CERTIFICATION

Founded in 1900, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is the world’s oldest and largest dental specialty organization.  It represents more than 18,000 orthodontist members throughout the United States, Canada and abroad.

The AAO is dedicated to the following four main points:

• Ethically advancing the art and science of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics worldwide.
• Improving the health of the public by promoting quality orthodontic care, the importance of overall oral health care, and advocating for the public interest.
• Educating the public about the benefits of orthodontic treatment and the educational qualifications of orthodontic specialists.
• Supporting AAO members in the practice of orthodontics.

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 anywhere from five to ten 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 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.