Are you interested in learning more about orthodontic board certification? The American Board of Orthodontics would like to invite you to stop by our Open House/Info Session during the 2022 AAO Annual Session in Miami Beach, Florida.
ABO directors and staff will be available to answer your questions on the board certification process during the following times at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Room 232.
| Date | Time |
| Saturday, May 21, 2022 | 10:30-11:30 AM |
| Sunday, May 22, 2022 | 9:30-11:30 AM |
| Monday, May 23, 2022 | 10:30-11:30 AM |
For more information on individual examinations, please click HERE.
ABO Examination Update
- Written Examination Update:
The ABO Written Examination was administered to 408 examinees on April 6, 2021, at testing centers in the United States and Canada.
Registration for the April 5, 2022, ABO Written Examination is closed. The examination will be administered at Pearson Vue Centers throughout the United States and Canada. Once the examination is successfully completed, it does not expire.
The Written Examination assesses the examinee’s knowledge of basic sciences and clinical concepts based on criterion-referenced testing. The exam is composed of 240 multiple-choice questions on subject areas outlined by CODA and divided into four modules. A Reading List to assist in preparing for the examination is located on the ABO website.
To be eligible for the Written Examination applicants must have graduated or be currently enrolled in an advanced specialty education program in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics in the United States or Canada, accredited by CODA. An orthodontic resident must have completed a minimum of eighteen (18) months of his/her program by the Written Examination date to be eligible to take this exam.
- Scenario-based Clinical Examination:
The ABO conducted Scenario-based Clinical Examinations in February, July, and November 2021 at testing centers worldwide. A total of 946 examinees were certified/recertified during the year. Listings by constituency for all examinations are located on the ABO website.
The Scenario-based Clinical Examination was held in February 2022, and will also be offered in October 2022, with registration currently open. Examinations are administered at Pearson Vue Testing Centers Worldwide, therefore, travel to St. Louis is no longer required.
Orthodontists taking the examination are objectively tested on their knowledge, skills and critical thinking abilities. The exam format utilizes the most fair, reliable, and valid testing methodology. Exams are scored by multiple ABO examiners to ensure accuracy and consistency for each exam section.
Preparation materials for the examination are continuously reviewed and updated on the ABO website to include study guide with sample cases. Tools previously developed by the ABO for outcome assessments continue to be important when preparing for the examination, as is clinical self-evaluation.
To be eligible for the Clinical Examination you must be a graduate of an advanced specialty education program in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics in the United States and Canada, accredited by CODA and successfully completed the ABO Written Examination. (An important reminder – once the ABO Written Examination is successfully completed, it does not expire and does not have to be retaken).
- Certification Renewal:
To maintain an active board status, Certification Renewal is required every 10 years (unless Lifetime certification is in place). The process may be started no earlier than 36 months prior to the expiration date printed on the board-certified orthodontist’s certificate. Two options in completing the examination are offered, with both requiring the completion of an AJODO continuing education component. Voluntary Certification Renewal is encouraged for all Lifetime board certified orthodontists.
A study guide for the examination is located on the ABO website along with a Motion Graphic Video summarizing the Certification Renewal process. Certification Renewal demonstrates a board certified orthodontist’s commitment to lifelong learning and personal dedication to excellence.
The ABO is committed to upholding our mission to elevate the quality of orthodontic care for the public by promoting excellence through certification, education, and professional collaboration.
If you have questions or need assistance on the board certification process, we are here to help. Please contact us at [email protected] or 314-432-6130.
