ABO (Board) Certification
Becoming Board Certified
Not all orthodontists are board certified. Only about 1 in 3 orthodontists in the country are board certified. To become board certified, an orthodontist has to pass a rigorous set of written and clinical examinations, as well as a comprehensive review of their credentials. The initial process of becoming board certified can take anywhere from five to ten years. Dr. John DiGiovanni is one of the few orthodontists in Laguna Beach and Newport Beach that has voluntarily gone through the hundreds of additional hours of preparation to demonstrate they possess the judgement, skills and knowledge required to provide the highest level of patient care.
What does it mean to be board certified?
A board certified orthodontist is known as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. Becoming board certified signifies the orthodontist's pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence in orthodontics.
American Board of Orthodontic Doctor Certification
Why Choose A Board Certified Orthodontist
Orthodontics is more than just straightening teeth. Orthodontists understand the complexity of growth development and facial form. Treatment plans include issues related to the jaw and bite, not just movement of teeth. There’s a reason orthodontists go to additional years of highly competitive orthodontic school – to learn and perfect their ability in the specialty. 
A general dentist is ideal for providing regular oral health check-ups, comparable to your family doctor. Many dentists offer orthodontic treatment plans, but have not been trained or educated in the area.
A board certified orthodontist is committed to the highest level of patient care including a comprehensive treatment approach to ensure quality work. And board certified orthodontists must re-new their certification every 10 years to demonstrate their continuous commitment to excellence.