Why Being Board Certified Matters

Did you know?

Only a very small percentage of dentists continue on to become orthodontists. An orthodontist is a specialist who is educated and trained specifically for orthodontic care. If you assumed all orthodontists are board certified, you are not alone. But the truth is less than half of all orthodontists have taken this voluntary step to achieve board certification. Your orthodontist has taken this extra step to show their commitment to the lifelong learning process of board certification.

What does it mean to be board certified?

Board certified orthodontists have committed themselves to you and your orthodontic treatment to set the highest level of care. In addition to dental school and an accredited orthodontic residency program, they have successfully completed a voluntary, rigorous examination process through The American Board of Orthodontics, the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association and in affiliation with the American Association of Orthodontists.

Why choose a board certified orthodontist?

Orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth. Orthodontists understand the complexity of growth and development as well as facial form. Treatment plans include issues related to the jaw and bite, not just movement of teeth. There's a reason orthodontists spend additional years in a highly competitive orthodontic program - to learn and perfect their ability in the specialty. A general dentist is ideal for providing regular oral health check-ups, comparable to your family doctor. Many dentists offer orthodontic treatment, but they do not have the same extensive education required of an orthodontist.

A board certified orthodontist is committed to the highest level of patient care including a comprehensive treatment approach to ensure top quality work. Board certified orthodontists must also renew their certification every 10 years to demonstrate their continuous commitment to lifelong learning and excellence.