(Newswire.net — January 22, 2014) Kissimmee, Fl —
It’s principle goals were designed to provide awareness to the public and to protect them from irresponsible and unqualified practitioners. In addition, it was set out to elevate the standards of orthodontic medicine and practice. The certification is voluntary and does not confer any education or academic degree, nor is this a validation of a license or legal privilege to practice orthodontic medicine.
There are really four main objectives that the ABO seeks in its purpose and they are: 1. A means of evaluating the knowledge and skill levels of those that have graduated accredited orthodontic programs. 2. Provide a re-evaluation of clinical skills and knowledge through a re-certification 3. Support the development of continuing education programs in orthodontics and quality graduate and post-graduate work 4. A means of promoting certification expertise throughout the world.
The ABO is the first specialty board in dentistry. The protocol for selecting board members were originally based on those individuals that had made great contributions in the field of orthodontics. Subsequent members were then chosen or greatly influenced by outgoing members. Later on in 1950, the Council on Dental Education of the American Dental Association accepted this body of the American Board of Orthodontics as being the certification for the industry. This was a major breakthrough in the industry as more applications from orthodontists were submitted since then and this certification gave more prestige to them. Between the years of 1964 to 1978, there were two forms of examination that could be taken: a written exam or a written thesis. Subsequent to 1978, the thesis was done away with. Now, there is only a written exam required along with a copy of clinical reports that must be presented as well.
The certification is given for a ten year period of time whereupon a recertification is required for the next ten year period. The clinical examination portion requires the orthodontist to supply the case reports that must then be presented and defended orally in front of the board.
Dental medicine and orthodontics are a serious business and it is comforting to know that the industry has raised the bar on itself in order to police its level of quality and service. Its existence serves a dual purpose since it is a pre-requisite for the standard of excellence which as a practicing professional, one should demand and marquee to all its patients and prospective patients. With a recertification requirement, it also forces the industry to stay up to speed on all new technology that is affecting the industry and ultimately the overall health and wellbeing of the patients.
For more information requiring professional orthodontic standards, contact Kendrick Orthodontics 32850 Greenwald Way North, Kissimmee, FL 34741 (407) 870-9848 / 4751 Lakeview Dr, Sebring, FL 33870 (863) 385-0452
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