A board-certified orthodontist is a specialist who has voluntarily completed extra rigorous testing and case review through the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), going beyond the minimum licensing requirements to practice orthodontics. That distinction matters because it signals a higher, independently verified standard of skill, judgment, and patient care.
Not every dentist who straightens teeth has this credential, and not every orthodontist chooses to pursue it. Understanding what board certification actually involves can help you feel more confident when you’re comparing orthodontic providers in Charleston, SC and deciding who should treat your smile or your child’s smile.
Continue reading to learn how orthodontists earn board certification, what it means for your treatment, and how to confirm a provider’s credentials before you commit to care.
Want to find out if you or your child needs braces? Visit Reese Orthodontics in Charleston, SC for leading orthodontic care.
What Is a Board-Certified Orthodontist?
A board-certified orthodontist has completed dental school, an additional two to three years of orthodontic residency, and then gone through the voluntary American Board of Orthodontics certification process. This includes a written exam and a clinical case review in which the orthodontist presents real patient cases to a panel of peers for evaluation.
Because certification is voluntary, it separates orthodontists who meet the baseline legal requirement to practice from those who have chosen to prove their skills against a national standard. Every orthodontist at Reese Orthodontics has earned this distinction, having treated more than 11,000 patients throughout the Charleston area.
How Do Orthodontists Earn Board Certification?
Completing an accredited residency
After dental school, future orthodontists must complete a CODA-accredited residency program focused specifically on tooth movement and jaw development, rather than general dentistry.
Passing written and clinical exams
Candidates sit for a comprehensive written exam covering orthodontic science, diagnosis, and treatment planning, then submit a portfolio of finished patient cases for clinical review.
Maintaining recertification
Board certification isn’t permanent. Orthodontists must recertify with the ABO every ten years, which keeps them current on the latest techniques, from traditional braces to modern options like Invisalign and SureSmile aligners.
Why Should You Care About Board Certification?
- It confirms independently verified clinical skill, not just a license to practice
- It means your orthodontist is evaluated by a panel of peers on real treatment outcomes
- It reflects an ongoing commitment to continuing education and updated techniques
- It can reduce the risk of treatment complications, relapse, or the need for retreatment
For families in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, James Island, and West Ashley, this credential offers a straightforward way to compare providers when researching “orthodontist near me.” Choosing a board-certified specialist for treatments like braces or Invisalign gives you added confidence that your care meets a nationally recognized benchmark.
How Can You Verify an Orthodontist’s Certification?
The American Board of Orthodontics maintains a public directory where you can search by name to confirm a provider’s status. You can also simply ask the practice directly, as most board-certified orthodontists list the credential prominently on their website and in their office.
It’s also worth asking how a prospective orthodontist stays current, since board-certified doctors often continue training in newer systems and technology. Understanding a practice’s full orthodontic treatment plan process is another good way to gauge their approach before you commit.
Choose Reese Orthodontics
Dr. Reese McElveen is a board-certified orthodontist who has treated more than 11,000 patients across Charleston, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, James Island, North Charleston, Johns Island, Daniel Island, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Ladson, Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island, and Sullivan’s Island. A consultation at our office includes digital scans, a comprehensive exam, and a one-on-one conversation with the orthodontist about your treatment options, whether that’s braces or Invisalign. Schedule an appointment today to meet our team and get an individualized recommendation for your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a board-certified orthodontist more expensive than a regular one?
Not necessarily. Fees vary by treatment complexity and provider, not by certification status alone, so it’s worth comparing quotes directly.
How do I know if my Charleston orthodontist is board-certified?
Check the American Board of Orthodontics’ online directory or ask the practice directly; most board-certified providers display the credential on their website.
Does board certification apply to Invisalign providers too?
Yes. Board-certified orthodontists can offer any treatment method, including Invisalign, braces, and retainers, since certification reflects overall clinical expertise rather than a single product.
Do I need a referral to see a board-certified orthodontist in Charleston?
No referral is required. You can schedule a consultation directly with a board-certified orthodontist like Dr. Reese McElveen.