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Since we had such a busy end to the year it has taken us a while to announce the exciting news that Dr. Justin Hughes has achieved board certification from the American Board of Orthodontics!

What is board certification? Aren’t all orthodontists board certified?

Unlike in medicine or general dentistry, board certification in orthodontics is optional. In fact, only 1 in 3 orthodontists is board certified. Here’s how it works:

Orthodontists and orthodontic residents must submit 6 cases that they have treated based on certain criteria. The cases must pass certain criteria level to qualify, such as having lots of crowding or a large overbite. At least one of the cases must show the extraction of 4 teeth (severe crowding) and the proper management of closing spaces, while another type of case must demonstrate the correction of a severe overjet (protruding teeth) without extractions. The orthodontist then completes a thorough written evaluation of the diagnosis, treatment plan, and results of each of the 6 cases.

Before and after photos, x-rays, and stone models of the teeth are brought to the exam. Two board examiners then spend hours evaluating the cases to ensure that they were diagnosed and treated to the highest quality in our profession. They discuss and question the orthodontist to ensure that he or she has a thorough understanding of every area of orthodontics.

In addition, Dr. Justin was shown a case that he had never seen before and asked to come up with a complete diagnosis and treatment plan on the spot and explain his reasoning to the examiners.

At the end of the day, the examiners agreed that Dr. Justin exemplified the highest commitment to excellence that the American Board of Orthodontics represents. We’re so proud of him!

via GIPHY

What does this mean for me?

It means that you can feel confident that you are in good hands at Hughes Orthodontics. Our doctors go above and beyond to continue learning and striving to achieve excellence every day in their profession. That is why Dr. Justin decided to spend the extra time, money, and energy to go through the process of board certification, because he wanted to challenge himself to ensure that he was providing the best patient care possible.

If you’re interested in learning more about the American Board of Orthodontics or about the process, click here.