Board Certified Expert For You
Are All Orthodontists Board Certified?
Not all orthodontists pursue board certification, but those who do demonstrate a deeper commitment to clinical excellence. Every orthodontist must be licensed to practice, but board certification goes a step beyond licensure.
At Advanced Orthodontics in Everett, WA, Dr. Lauren Lewandowski has successfully completed the rigorous certification process of the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) — the only certifying board in orthodontics recognized by the American Dental Association.
What Does Board Certification Mean?
Board certification reflects:
- Advanced training beyond dental school and orthodontic residency
- Demonstrated clinical competence in comprehensive patient care
- A commitment to maintaining high professional standards
Unlike general licensure, board certification is voluntary and requires orthodontists to prove their skill through detailed case submission and examination.
How Many Certifying Boards Are Recognized in Orthodontics?
There is only one orthodontic certifying board recognized by the American Dental Association:
- American Board of Orthodontics (ABO)
Founded in 1929, the ABO is also the oldest specialty board in dentistry. Its mission is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care by promoting excellence through certification, education, and professional collaboration.
Why Do Orthodontists Pursue Board Certification?
Orthodontists choose certification to demonstrate their dedication to:
- Clinical excellence
- Lifelong learning and professional growth
- Delivering the highest standard of care to patients
Achieving ABO certification shows a commitment to staying current with the latest advances in orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care.
What Are the Steps in the ABO Certification Process?
The ABO certification process is detailed and comprehensive:
- Written Examination:
A broad exam covering all essential orthodontic knowledge. - Clinical Examination:
The orthodontist presents detailed case reports demonstrating a history of high-quality patient care. - Oral Examination:
A panel of examiners evaluates clinical judgment and expertise in a face-to-face setting.
Once successfully completed, the orthodontist is granted ABO Board Certification for a defined period.
Is Certification Permanent?
No, to maintain the highest standard of patient care, board-certified orthodontists must complete a recertification process every 10 years. This ensures they continue to meet current clinical and educational standards throughout their careers.
What This Means for You
When you choose Advanced Orthodontics in Everett, WA, you’re choosing a practice led by an orthodontist who has achieved the highest level of professional certification in the specialty.
Dr. Lewandowski’s board certification reflects her:
- Verified clinical expertise
- Commitment to excellence
- Dedication to providing high-quality, evidence-based orthodontic care
This level of credentialing provides added assurance that your orthodontic treatment is guided by recognized benchmarks for quality and effectiveness.