Is Your Orthodontist Board-Certified?

An orthodontist is different than a regular dentist in that he or she has to undergo additional schooling. Dentists do not receive orthodontic training in dental school. To become a Board-CertifiedOrthodontic Specialist, you have to complete an accredited graduate program, then take an exam to be certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. The program is rigorous, and the pass rate is low, ensuring that only the most dedicated succeed.

Orthodontists must re-take the examination every so often to remain board-certified. This is to make sure that only the most passionate dentists are allowed to call themselves orthodontists.

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

While dentists mainly deal with issues of the teeth, gums, and mouth, orthodontists focus on the way the teeth and jaws align together, also known as your bite. If teeth are crooked or if you have an over- or underbite, it can lead to other dental issues down the line.

Orthodontists correct these problems through orthodontics, such as traditional metal braces or clear aligners. Your specific case will determine what type of appliance is right for you.

Is My Orthodontist Board-Certified?

Not every dentist that offers orthodontics is considered an orthodontist. On top of that, it’s important to keep in mind that not all orthodontists are board-certified; in fact, over 75 percent of people practicing orthodontics are actually not board-certified!

It’s important to double check that your orthodontist is board certified, which you can check by visiting the American Board of Orthodontics website. Dental schools don’t provide the kind of clinical orthodontic training that you would get in a graduate orthodontics program, so you should make sure you’re only trusting your orthodontic treatment to a dentist that is board certified.

Another way to tell if your orthodontist is a certified practitioner is by their professional name/educational background. A real orthodontist is a graduate of a Master’s Program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.

Dr. Pratt Manning is a board-certified orthodontist who is passionate about her work. She’s currently on her second recertification and intends to maintain her certification throughout her career. To make an appointment with Dr. Pratt Manning, give our The Woodlands, TX office a call at 281-367-0050 (Woodlands) or 936-596-1200 (Montgomery) today!