About Board Certification
At Beyond Orthodontics, Dr. Angelique Thomas is proud to be a board-certified orthodontist committed to providing exceptional, evidence-based care. Board certification reflects advanced clinical knowledge, continued education, and a dedication to maintaining the highest standards within the orthodontic specialty.
For patients, choosing a board-certified orthodontist offers added confidence that their care is being guided by expertise, precision, and ongoing professional excellence.
Are All Orthodontists Board Certified?
No. While all orthodontists must be licensed to practice, not all pursue board certification. Certification through the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is a voluntary achievement that goes beyond the additional years of specialty education required to become an orthodontist.
This process demonstrates a commitment to advanced clinical skills, patient care, and continued professional development.
What Is the American Board of Orthodontics?
The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association. Founded in 1929, it is also the oldest dental specialty board in the United States.
The ABO’s mission is to improve orthodontic care through:
- Certification
- Continuing education
- Professional collaboration
- Clinical excellence
Board certification helps ensure orthodontists remain current with the latest advancements in treatment and patient care.
Why Do Orthodontists Pursue Board Certification?
Board certification represents an orthodontist’s commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. It demonstrates that the orthodontist has successfully completed a rigorous evaluation process focused on clinical ability, judgment, and patient outcomes.
Orthodontists pursue certification to:
- Demonstrate advanced orthodontic expertise
- Stay current with modern treatment techniques
- Deliver high-quality, evidence-based care
- Maintain the highest standards within the specialty
For many orthodontists, board certification is considered one of the profession’s highest achievements.
What steps are required to complete the ABO certification process?
