The primary purpose of The American Board of Orthodontics is to elevate the level of orthodontic care for the public by encouraging excellence in clinical practice and specialty education. In its mission statement, the Board clearly defines four objectives: 1) to evaluate the knowledge and clinical skills of graduates of accredited orthodontic programs by conducting exams and conferring time-limited certificates; 2) to re-evaluate clinical knowledge and skills through administration of recertification exams throughout a Diplomate's career; 3) to support the development of quality graduate, postgraduate and continuing education programs in orthodontics; and 4) to promote and encourage certification expertise throughout the world.