Similar to Canada, there are many colleges and universities in the United States that offer orthodontic programs. Each school has a different enrollment process, but each applicant must have graduated with a DDS or DMD from an accredited dental school.[41] [42] Entry into an accredited orthodontic program is highly competitive, and begins with passing a national or state licensing exam. [43]
The program generally lasts two to three years, and by the final year, graduates must complete the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) written exam. [43] This test is also divided into two components: a written exam and a clinical exam. [43] The written examination is a comprehensive test that tests the applicant’s knowledge of basic science and clinical concepts. [43] However, the clinical exam consists of a Board Case Report Oral Examination (BCOE), Case Report Examination (CRE), and Case Report Oral Examination (CROE). [43] Once certified, the certification must be renewed every ten years. [43] Orthodontic programs can award a Master of Science degree, Doctor of Science degree, or Doctor of Philosophy degree depending on school and individual research requirements. [44]
