ABPD Certification
American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Doctor Certification
The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry was originally founded in 1942. The ABPD values the provision of the highest quality oral health care for children. Such care is thoughtful, careful, ethical and based on the current scientific evidence. It takes into account the best interest of the patient and is respectful of the patient and his/her family.
The ABPD values a health professional's commitment to lifelong learning. ABPD values pediatric dentist’s desire to practice pediatric dentistry at the highest level and their commitment to constantly reevaluate their practices in light of the most recent scientific evidence.
The ABPD values quality improvement in health care through objective assessment of outcomes and process. It supports efforts to provide optimal health care to children.
The ABPD recognizes the value of renewal of certification and continuing education for health professionals.
The ABPD embraces integrity and accountability in guiding and empowering pediatric dentists to engage in continuous competency.
Becoming Board Certified
To become board-certified pediatric dentist, a general dentist has to first be accepted AND complete a specialty residency from a certified pediatric dental residency program which is typically an additional 2-3 years in length. It is only upon completing this specialty training residency in pediatrics that they are eligible for board certification by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Should the pediatric dentist decide to pursue board certification upon completing their pediatric dental residency, they must then pass a rigorous written examination administered by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. If they pass the written examination, they must wait roughly 16 months before they are eligible to take a strenuous oral examination administered by a committee of other board-certified pediatric dentists.
What does it mean to be board certified?
A board-certified pediatric dentist, also known as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, has been voluntarily examined by his or her peers on the basis of knowledge and clinical skills. Becoming board certified signifies the pediatric dentist's pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence in pediatric dentistry.