About Board Certification in Orthodontics
At Wilsonville Orthodontics, we take pride in delivering orthodontic care that meets the highest standards of precision, ethics, and excellence. That’s why Dr. Elisa Herrman is a Board-Certified Orthodontist, a distinction earned by only a portion of orthodontists nationwide.
Becoming board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) reflects a deep commitment to lifelong learning, clinical excellence, and outstanding patient outcomes.
Are All Orthodontists Board Certified?
No. All orthodontists must be licensed to practice, but not all orthodontists are board-certified.
This process goes well beyond the two to three years of advanced orthodontic training required after dental school. It demands that orthodontists demonstrate expertise in their field by passing a written and a scenario-based exam covering a wide range of orthodontic challenges.
Each candidate is thoroughly evaluated by a panel of respected examiners who assess their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills, and professional judgment.
The Only ADA-Recognized Certifying Board in Orthodontics
There is only one certifying board in orthodontics recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO)
Founded in 1929, the ABO is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. Its mission is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care by promoting excellence through education, certification, and professional collaboration.
Why Orthodontists Pursue Board Certification
Choosing to become board certified is a voluntary and rigorous process that represents a practitioner’s dedication to the highest standards of patient care.
Board-certified orthodontists demonstrate:
- A proven commitment to clinical excellence and continuing education
- The ability to provide advanced, evidence-based care
- A passion for maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards in the specialty
- Dedication to delivering the most effective, up-to-date treatments to patients
- For many orthodontists, achieving board certification is the highest level of personal and professional accomplishment
The ABO Certification Process
Step-by-Step Certification Process
1. Written Examination
This is the first step toward board certification.
The exam evaluates knowledge in orthodontic principles, diagnosis, treatment planning, and related basic sciences.
2. Clinical Examination (Scenario-Based Format)
The exam presents clinical cases and scenarios that test an applicant’s ability to diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate orthodontic treatment. It focuses on clinical decision-making skills.
3. Certification Achievement
After passing both the Written and Clinical Examinations, you become a Board-Certified Orthodontist by the ABO.
The certification is time-limited and must be renewed periodically.
4. Certification Renewal
ABO Certification is valid for 10 years.
To maintain an active status, orthodontists must complete a Certification Renewal Examination or meet other ABO-recognized requirements to remain board-certified.