Orthodontists are uniquely qualifed 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
Orthodontics FAQs
What are Clear Braces?
Clear braces are a type of fixed orthodontic appliance used in comprehensive orthodontic treatment. We use true clear (not frosted) braces that are made of ceramic.
Why choose Clear Braces?
Clear braces provide the same benefits as treatment with metal braces minus the visibility. In fact, most people find that clear braces are invisible in photos.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a type of clear and removable appliance used in comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Invisalign treatment consists of a series of custom trays that gently align your teeth. Most of the time, tooth colored attachments will be temporarily bonded to the teeth to aid in tray retention during the course of treatment.
Why Choose Invisalign?
Teens and adults love the convenience of Invisalign because it is clear and can be removed during meals. Patients often find Invisalign to be more comfortable than traditional braces as there are no bracket abrasions and discomfort from shifting wires.
Am I A Candidate for Invisalign?
Many types of malocclusion can be treated successfully with Invisalign. Please call our office to make an appointment for consultation to find out if Invisalign is a good option for you.
ABOUT BOARD CERTIFICATION
Are all orthodontists Board Certified?
No. All orthodontists must be licensed to practice, but at this time only 1 in 3 orthodontists have continued on to complete Board Certification. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) certification process signifies a unique achievement—a significant step beyond the two to three years of advanced education required for a dentist to become a specialist in orthodontics. The process requires the orthodontist to demonstrate actual accomplishments in patient care with detailed case reports on the treatment provided for a broad range of patient problems. Board certification is a voluntary achievement that all orthodontists do not choose to pursue. In order to become board certified by the ABO, an individual orthodontist is thoroughly interviewed by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills and judgment.
How many certifying boards are recognized by the American Dental Association in the specialty of orthodontics?
One. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the only certifying board in the specialty that is recognized by the American Dental Association. The ABO was founded in 1929 and is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. The board’s purpose is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care for the public by promoting excellence through certification, education and professional collaboration.
Why would an orthodontist choose to complete this voluntary certification process?
Successful completion of the examination process demonstrates the orthodontist’s highest commitment to excellence in orthodontics – to both the orthodontic profession and the general public. It represents a commitment by a licensed specialist that he/she has the necessary knowledge base and skills to treat patients to the highest of standards. It exemplifies a practitioner’s commitment to continue to keep abreast of the latest advances in patient care, and to continue to deliver these latest advances to patients. Many orthodontists see it as a demonstration of their dedication to the specialty and the highest level of personal achievement.
Dr. Jamali has been nothing but wonderful thus far. He is a kind perfectionist who does not beat around the bush- he tells it like it is. He is willing to spend AMPLE time discussing procedures to ensure you feel comfortable.
What steps are required to complete the ABO certification process?
Since the establishment of the ABO in 1929, the certification process requirements have continued to adjust to the demands of the specialty. Today, the process involves a thorough Written Examination (240 questions) covering all areas of information which an orthodontist should be knowledgeable. Successful completion of this “board exam” allows the orthodontist to proceed to the Clinical Examination where they present detailed case reports from their practice/residency, demonstrating a history of excellence in patient care. These cases are evaluated by a panel of examiners and later discussed during an oral examination where the applicant is tested on a wide variety of academic and clinical topics. After successful completion of these examinations, the orthodontist has officially achieved Board Certification, for a time-limited period. The orthodontist must go through Certification Renewal every 10 years to maintain their certification status by demonstrating this continued level of patient care.
For further information about The American Board of Orthodontics and Board Certification, click here.
