ABO certification

The American Board of Orthodontics was founded as the first specialty board in dentistry in 1929. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the only specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association. The ABO sets the standard for the highest level of patient care and promotes excellence in orthodontics. If your orthodontist is board certified, this represents a commitment to life long learning and excellent care.

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry. The dental specialists who are educated and trained to correct misaligned teeth and improper bite patterns are known as orthodontists.

During orthodontic treatment, teeth and sometimes entire facial structures are permanently changed. Therefore, it is important to have the treatment appropriately and properly completed by an orthodontist. Orthodontists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.

Drs. Birth and Fletcher are also board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction that less than 50 percent of American orthodontists achieve. To attain this distinction, orthodontists 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.

By choosing an orthodontist that is board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics, also known as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, you are ensuring that you receive the best care possible.