A board certified orthodontist is an orthodontist who has studied and performed hundreds of additional hours to fully demonstrate the judgment, skills and knowledge required for providing orthodontic services at the highest level of patient care. They have achieved board certification through the American Board of Orthodontics, the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association and in affiliation with the American Association of Orthodontists. The chart shown here is from the American Board of Orthodontics.
An orthodontist has not only fully trained as a dentist, including having completed a graduate program in dentistry to receive their DDS or DMD (Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine), but they have also done a competitive residency at a Commission of Dental Accreditation (CDA) approved orthodontic program for an additional 2-3 years to be trained specifically in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. And a board certified orthodontists must renew their certification every 10 years to demonstrate their continuous commitment to excellence.
Achieving board certification is the final step in a years long and intensive education to ultimately be able to provide the highest quality service to patients.
Orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth. Orthodontists understand the complexity of growth development and facial form. Treatment plans include issues related to the jaw and bite, not just movement of teeth. There’s a reason orthodontists go to additional years of highly competitive orthodontic school – to learn and perfect their ability in this specialty. A general dentist is ideal for providing regular oral health check-ups, comparable to your family doctor. Many dentists offer orthodontic treatment plans, but they do not have the extensive training or education in the area that an orthodontist has.
Although many Dentists offer braces, only 5% of Dentists are Orthodontists, and only 1% have completed their board certification exams to become a Board Certified Orthodontist.
Orthodontists are uniquely qualified in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of orthodontic problems. They dedicate their professional lives to creating healthy, beautiful smiles in children, teens and adults. Well-aligned teeth are more than attractive: they make it possible to bite, chew and speak effectively. Orthodontic care is often part of a comprehensive oral health plan.
Dr. Taylor has dedicated himself to providing our community with the best in orthodontic care, and is proud to share his qualifications with you. He attended dental school, then specialized in orthodontics, and underwent the vigorous process to become a Board Certified Orthodontist. Learn More About Our Board Certified Orthodontist, Dr Taylor.
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