Dr. Imad Maleeh is Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). The ABO offers board-certification in recognition of a commitment to the highest level of patient care, including a comprehensive treatment approach to ensure quality work.
Are all orthodontists Board Certified?
No. In fact, the ABO estimates that only 33% of all orthodontists receive Board Certification. While all orthodontists require specialized training and must be licensed to practice, only one in three continue on to complete the Board Certification process.
The ABO certification signifies a unique achievement, and requires significant work beyond the two or three years of advanced education required to specialize in orthodontics. This process requires the orthodontist to demonstrate accomplishments in patient care which include detailed case reports on the treatment provided. These accomplishments and case reports must cover a broad range of patient problems. An orthodontist seeking Board Certification is thoroughly interviewed by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills and judgement.
Board Certification is a voluntary achievement, and not all orthodontists choose to pursue it.
How many certifying boards are recognized by the American Dental Association in the specialty of orthodontics?
At this time, the only board recognized by the ADA is the American Board of Orthodontics. The ABO was founded in 1929, and is now the oldest specialty board in dentistry. It’s purpose is to increase the quality of orthodontic care by promoting excellence through certification, education and professional collaboration.
Why would an orthodontist choose to complete the Board Certification process?
Successful completion of the Board Certification process demonstrates an orthodontist’s commitment to excellent, both in the orthodontic field and to the general public. It certifies that he or she has the necessary knowledge and skills to treat all patients to the highest standards of excellence, and exemplifies their commitment to stay abreast of the latest advances in orthodontics and patient care. Many orthodontists see Board Certification as a demonstration of their dedication and as the highest level of personal achievement in their chosen field.
What steps are required to become Board Certified?
The Board Certification process had been adjusted to meet the demands of the specialty since the ABO was initially established. Today, the process involves three main steps:
- A thorough written examination (240 question) covering all areas in which an orthodontist should be knowledgeable. When successfully completed, this exam allows the orthodontist to proceed to the next step.
- Clinical examination, in which the orthodontist presents detailed case reports from their practice or residency, demonstrating a history of excellence in patient care. The cases are evaluated by a panel, and later discussed with the orthodontist during an oral examination. This oral examination tests the applicant on a wide range of academic and clinical topics. After completing this second step, the orthodontist is Board Certified for a 10 year period.
- Certification renewal is required every 10 years in order for the orthodontist to maintain their certification status.
For more information about Board Certification and the American Board of Orthodontics, please click here.
We also welcome you to contact our office at 760-951-7752 to make an appointment with one of our orthodontists in Victorville, California.