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Design Element

Path for Specialty Dentists

Certification

Route 3:

Specialty Dentists Seeking Certification

This path is for dentists who have completed a U.S. ADA/CODA or Canada CDAC accredited programs in Oral Surgery, Prosthodontics, or Periodontics, or a U.S./Canada–based residency in Implant Dentistry.

Specialists bring advanced clinical training that closely aligns with implant dentistry, and this route recognizes that background while upholding ABOI’s rigorous certification standards.

Process Overview

  1. Submit application and required documentation
  2. Proceed directly to Part II: Oral/Case Examination (Route 3 applicants are exempt from the Part I Written Examination)
  3. Achieve Diplomate status upon successful completion of the examination

Eligibility Requirements for Specialty Applicants

1. Dental degree and licensure

  • Applicants must hold a DMD/DDS degree or equivalent. A copy of your degree is required with your application.
  • Applicants must be a licensed practicing dentist.  A copy of your professional dental license with the current expiration date is required with your application.

2. Specialty residency completion

Applicants must have successfully completed one of the following programs within the United States or Canada:

  • Applicants have completed at least a 2-year full time university graduate level program in Implant Dentistry in the U.S. or Canada. Approved U.S. Implant Dentistry programs include but not limited to Loma Linda University or Jacksonville University, or
  • Applicants have completed at least a 2-year program from an ADA/CODA (Commission on Dental Accreditation) or CDAC (Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada)-specialty residency in:
    • Oral Surgery
    • Prosthodontics
    • Periodontics

Examination Pathway

Specialty applicants complete one examination component:

Part II — Oral/Case Examination

The ABOI/ID Oral Examination requires candidates to submit eight qualifying implant cases and defend selected cases before examiners, demonstrating their knowledge across diagnosis, treatment planning, surgery, prosthetics, and current literature.

Using both standardized cases and candidates’ own cases, the exam evaluates clinical reasoning and depth of understanding.

Learn more about and prepare for the oral examination.

Begin Your Application

Ready to apply? Create an account to begin your application a specialist candidate. You’ll be prompted to upload required documents (degree verification, licensure, and residency program documentation) through our secure portal.

Applicants may return to and continue their in-progress application at any time by logging back in.

Begin My Application