Yeah...But are They Certified?

Photo provided by www.americanboardortho.com

Did you know that Dr. Lenz is a Board Certified Orthodontist? After hearing that, are you now asking yourself…”What the heck is Board Certified and why do I even care”? Well, let’s think about that for a minute, shall we…

The transmission goes out on your car, and your neighbor down the street says…”I’m not a mechanic, but I have worked on cars in the past, I bet I could fix it for you.” Now, while this might save you some money now…in the long run is it really the best idea to have something that important fixed by the guy down the street? Probably not. And the same should be considered when looking for someone to take care of your orthodontic health concerns. 

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed a post-doctoral graduate program accredited by the American Dental Association in the specialty of orthodontics. After a few years of experience, that orthodontist is eligible to become board certified through a voluntary examination process of The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). And according to the ABO…"involvement in the certification process is a demonstration of the orthodontist's pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence.” 

Orthodontists can’t practice without a license. However, they don’t have to seek certification from the ABO unless they want to show they are one of the top providers in the country. Board certification provides a gold standard against which any orthodontist can be measured. Ensuring that your orthodontist is board certified isn't just about making sure your treatment is effective, certification also signals something much more important than a beautiful smile…certification ensures your safety and peace of mind.

Image provided by americanboardortho.com

Board Certified Orthodontists have had their cases reviewed by an expert panel of other Board Certified Orthodontists. 

Board Certified Orthodontists have passed all written, oral & clinical examinations to become a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. 
 
Board Certification is the highest level of academic achievement that can obtain by an Orthodontist.
 
The ABO is the only certifying board recognized by the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association. 

Don't trust your orthodontic health to anyone but the best of the best. When you're selecting an orthodontist for your orthodontic treatment, ask to see their certification credentials. Only then can you be sure that your treatment will be effective, affordable and, most importantly, safe.