Dr. Blair is proud to be a board certified orthodontist in West Palm Beach, FL, a credential held by only about 60% of practicing orthodontists nationwide. Board certification isn’t required to practice — but it represents a voluntary, rigorous standard that goes well beyond basic licensure. Here’s what it means, and why it matters when you’re choosing an orthodontist.
Are all orthodontists Board Certified?
No. All orthodontists must be licensed to practice, but at this time only about 60% of orthodontists have continued on to become a board certified orthodontist. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) certification process signifies a unique achievement—a significant step beyond the two to three years of advanced education required for a dentist to become a specialist in orthodontics. The process requires the orthodontist to demonstrate actual accomplishments in patient care with detailed case reports on the treatment provided for a broad range of patient problems. Board certification is a voluntary achievement that all orthodontists do not choose to pursue. In order to become board certified by the ABO, an individual orthodontist is thoroughly interviewed by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills and judgment.
How many certifying boards are recognized by the American Dental Association in the specialty of orthodontics?
One. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the only certifying board in the specialty that is recognized by the American Dental Association. The ABO was founded in 1929 and is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. The board’s purpose is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care for the public by promoting excellence through certification, education and professional collaboration.
Why would an orthodontist choose to complete this voluntary certification process?
Successful completion of the examination process demonstrates the orthodontist’s highest commitment to excellence in orthodontics – to both the orthodontic profession and the general public. It represents a commitment by a licensed specialist that he/she has the necessary knowledge base and skills to treat patients to the highest of standards. It exemplifies a practitioner’s commitment to continue to keep abreast of the latest advances in patient care, and to continue to deliver these latest advances to patients. Many orthodontists see it as a demonstration of their dedication to the specialty and the highest level of personal achievement.
What steps are required to complete the ABO certification process?
Since the establishment of the ABO in 1929, the certification process requirements have continued to adjust to the demands of the specialty. Today, the process involves a thorough Written Examination (240 questions) covering all areas of information which an orthodontist should be knowledgeable.
Successful completion of this “board exam” allows the orthodontist to proceed to the Clinical Examination where they present detailed case reports from their practice/residency, demonstrating a history of excellence in patient care. These cases are evaluated by a panel of examiners and later discussed during an oral examination where the applicant is tested on a wide variety of academic and clinical topics. After successful completion of these examinations, the orthodontist has officially achieved Board Certification, for a time-limited period. The orthodontist must go through Certification Renewal every 10 years to maintain their certification status by demonstrating this continued level of patient care.
For further information about The American Board of Orthodontics and Board Certification, click here.
Why Choose a Board Certified Orthodontist in West Palm Beach?
If you’re searching for an orthodontist in West Palm Beach, board certification is one of the clearest, most objective ways to evaluate a provider’s commitment to excellence. It means Dr. Blair has voluntarily gone through rigorous written, case-based, and oral examinations — and continues to renew that certification every 10 years to stay current with the latest standards in patient care. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Blair to see the difference board certified care makes.
FAQS
Is Dr. Blair a board certified orthodontist in West Palm Beach?
Yes. Dr. Blair holds board certification from the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) — an achievement held by only about 60% of practicing orthodontists. This distinction reflects a rigorous, voluntary process beyond standard licensure requirements.
Why does board certification matter when choosing an orthodontist in West Palm Beach?
Board certification is one of the clearest, most objective ways to evaluate an orthodontist’s commitment to quality care. It confirms the provider has demonstrated advanced clinical skill through detailed case reviews and examination by a panel of specialists — not just completed basic licensing requirements.
How is a board certified orthodontist different from a general dentist who does orthodontics?
A board certified orthodontist has completed 2-3 years of additional specialty training beyond dental school, then voluntarily pursued further certification through the ABO. A general dentist offering orthodontic treatment typically has not completed this specialty residency or certification process.
Does Dr. Blair need to renew board certification?
Yes. Board certification through the ABO is time-limited. Dr. Blair renews certification every 10 years, demonstrating continued excellence in patient care and staying current with the latest advances in orthodontic treatment.
How can I verify an orthodontist's board certification status?
You can verify certification directly through the American Board of Orthodontics at americanboardortho.com. This transparency is part of what makes board certification a trustworthy signal when researching orthodontists in West Palm Beach.