ABO Certification

American Board of Orthodontics Doctor Certification

Founded in 1929 by seven members, the American Board of Orthodontics, also known as the ABO, was the first specialty board created in the field of dentistry. As the global leader in orthodontic board certification, the ABO’s vision is to set the standards of care for excellence in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. The group also strives to protect patients from careless, untrained practitioners.

The ABO’s mission is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care for the public by promoting excellence through certification, education and professional collaboration. This mission is achieved by recognizing the core values:

Value People

  • Fiscal responsibility
  • Integrity and excellence
  • Respect
  • Service above self
  • Trust and teamwork

How to Become Board Certified by the ABO

Orthodontic specialists have earned their dentistry degree and completed an advanced post-doctoral course, accredited by the American Dental Association, of at least two academic years in the specialty of orthodontics. To attain board certification, the orthodontist must pass a series of difficult, thorough written and oral examinations. They must also submit case studies of patients they’ve successfully treated. The entire certification process can take anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Once this level of recognition is achieved, certified orthodontists must be recertified every 10 years to maintain their status with the Board.

What it Means to be Board Certified by the ABO

Board certification, also known as being a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, is a distinction that less than 50% of all American orthodontists achieve. By choosing to undergo rigorous evaluation by their peers, these orthodontists have proven their commitment to ongoing education and evolving proficiency in his field.