ABO certification
What is ABO certification?
Founded in 1929, the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the oldest and most prestigious specialty board in the dental field. The goal of the ABO is to promote the highest level of orthodontics. They want all orthodontists to be held to a high standard so that their patients get the care they deserve. They also want to protect the general public against orthodontists who are unqualified to practice. The ABO has several main objectives. The first is to provide examinations and certificates to graduates who are able to practice orthodontics at a high level. They also offer a diplomate’s career, which means that orthodontists are re-evaluated throughout their career and with examinations to ensure that they are practicing the way that they should be.
After an orthodontist becomes certified, the ABO helps to continue the orthodontist’s education with continuing education programs. They want to promote the latest technologies so certified orthodontists can continue to give patients the care they deserve. Though it is worth it, it is not easy to become board certified. Orthodontists must pass both written and clinical examinations. The board will also go over their credentials to make sure that they are qualified to receive the honor. This process can take quite a few years, usually between five and ten years. Once an orthodontist becomes certified, he or she will have to become re-certified every ten years to maintain the board-certified status. Once they are board certified, they can be called a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. This tells others that they are dedicated to the development of and excellence in the field.
Dr. Marlon Henderson is a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the Southwestern Society of Orthodontics. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.