Credentialing with the AOS

For the past 25+ years the AOS Credentialing Board has offered a rigorous peer review process designed to recognize orthodontic proficiency in our members. Today less than 10% of members can claim the esteemed "Diplomate" level of credentialing.

Distinction

Top 1% of GP Ortho Providers

The AOS Credentialing program sets a high bar, with rigorous standards that are among the most demanding in the dental industry. In fact, less than 1% of all general dentists in the US earn the distinction of becoming an AOS Diplomate. This achievement is a testament to your advanced skills and commitment to excellence, setting you apart as a leader in the field.

Mentorship

A Community of Peers

One of the most valued aspects of the AOS, according to our Diplomates, is the strong mentorship provided. We offer numerous opportunities to connect with fellow Diplomates, including our Diplomate Sponsored Meeting each spring, special breakfasts and luncheons at our annual meetings, and a dedicated online community. Through these channels, you can easily build relationships with peers, share your knowledge, and contribute to the AOS community.

Pay it Forward

Foundation for the Future

The future of comprehensive orthodontic education for general dentists depends on the support of dedicated doctors like you. Without a commitment to maintaining high standards, developing quality education, and embracing new technologies, we risk losing this invaluable resource for future generations. By joining our Diplomate community, you play a crucial role in ensuring that general dentists continue to have access to the best orthodontic education possible.

If you're not sure whether you're eligible for a certain credentialing level, you can use the "Credentialing Assessment" to learn more.

Credentialing Overview

Mentorship

The AOS Credentialing Committee can provide mentorship to members working towards their Fellowship or Diplomate levels of credentialing. 

This can be invaluable in understanding requirements for case selection and documentation required for presentation.

Application Submission

Deadline for any award application is two months prior to the Spring Meeting. 

Candidates will be required to attach a list of continuing education courses taken along with records to verify attendance.

CE Requirements

Only courses from approved providers which contribute to the practitioners increased orthodontic knowledge will be accepted.

CE submitted should include the date(s) of the course, the subject matter, and the name of the sponsor or lecturer.

AOS Provided course CE is kept on file for 7 years. AOS CE Courses do not need to be submitted as we can lookup your CE history.

Credentialing Levels

Achievement Credentialing Requirements

Achievement Award

  • Membership: 3 Consecutive Years
  • CE Hours: 350 Hours Orthodontic Education (100 from AOS Courses)
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Renewal:  36 CE Hours every 3 Years ($50 Admin Fee)

Fellowship Credentialing Requirements

Fellowship Award

  • Prerequisite: Currently Active Achievement Award
  • Membership: 5 Consecutive Years
  • CE Hours: 500 Hours Orthodontic Education (100 from AOS Courses)
  • Case Review: 1 Case with Complete Records (Handbook Pg 7)
  • Courses: Diplomate Review Course and Written Exam (Virtual)
  • Meetings: In Person Attendance at Spring & Annual Meetings in Award Year
  • Application Fee: $350
  • Renewal:  36 CE Hours every 3 Years ($100 Admin Fee)

Diplomate Credentialing Requirements

Diplomate Award

  • Prerequisite: Currently Active Fellowship Award
  • Membership: 5 Consecutive Years
  • Case Review: 10 Case with Complete Records (Handbook Pg 7)
  • Case Article: 1 Case in Digital Format Must be Submitted to the JAOS
  • Exams: Oral Review/Exam Before Examining Board
  • Meetings: In Person Attendance at Spring & Annual Meetings in Award Year
  • Application Fee: $700
  • Renewal:  50 CE Hours every 3 Years ($150 Admin Fee)

If you're not sure whether you're eligible for a certain credentialing level, you can use the "Credentialing Assessment" to learn more.

Suggested Credentialing Continuums

Achievement Credentialing Requirements

Achievement Course Suggestions

  • Comprehensive Basic Ortho:
    • Year 1: 5 Sess. (100 CE Hrs)
    • Year 2: 5 Sess. - Monitor (100 CE Hrs)
  • Intermediate Ortho:
    • Year 1: 3 Sess. (60 CE Hrs)
    • Year 2: 3 Sess. - Monitor (60 CE Hrs)
  • Spring Meeting: (14 CE Hrs)
  • Annual Meeting: (20 CE Hrs)

TOTAL: 354 CE Hours

Fellowship Credentialing Requirements

Fellowship Course Suggestions

  • Hours from Achievement Level: (354 CE Hrs)
  • Diplomate Review Course (Virtual): (10 CE Hrs)
  • Digital Aligner Bootcamp:
    • Year 1: 1 Sess. (11 CE Hrs)
    • Year 2: 1 Sess. - Monitor (11 CE Hrs)
  • Spring Meeting: 
    • Year 1: 1 Sess. (14 CE Hrs)
    • Year 2: 1 Sess. (14 CE Hrs)
  • Annual Meeting: 
    • Year 1: 1 Sess. (20 CE Hrs)
    • Year 2: 1 Sess. (20 CE Hrs)
    • Year 3: 1 Sess. (20 CE Hrs)
  • Adult Ortho Symposium:
    • Year 1: 1 Sess. (16 CE Hrs)
    • Year 2: 1 Sess. (16 CE Hrs)

TOTAL: 506 CE Hours

If you're not sure whether you're eligible for a certain credentialing level, you can use the "Credentialing Assessment" to learn more.

Have more questions?

We'd love to chat! Use the form to the right to tell us what's on your mind. The more information you provide, the better we can understand your needs and provide helpful answers.

Credentialing Contact Form

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