Board Certification identifies practitioners who have demonstrated specialty level ability and succeeded in completing a rigorous evaluation process. The public is able to identify clinicians who have completed the certification process and have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and values of an individual worthy of certification. Recognition supports the unique abilities of a practicing prosthodontist for the public.
By recognizing clinicians who meet the standard for board certification, the ABP also provides one of the critical aspects that define the specialty. Prosthodontics is defined by scope of practice, educational standards, and clinicians in practice who meet the board certification standard. The specialty is framed by the ADA Commission on Dental Education and Licensure Definition, the American College of Prosthodontists Parameters of Care, the Commission on Dental Accreditation Advanced Education Program Specialty Standards for Prosthodontics, and the ABP certifying examination guidelines and process leading to board certified specialists, who are called Diplomates. ABP efforts were and continue to be a critical part of the evolution of Prosthodontics and its recognition as a dental specialty.
