Here at About Faces and Braces, we’re all about your smile, and we believe in keeping you in the know when it comes to all things related to it! You’ve probably seen the term “board-certified” next to Dr. Shawn or Dr. Candice’s name on some of our website material or social media, and it’s not hard to imagine wondering if that’s all just marketing-speak. What does that mean, really? Is it important? (Spoiler alert — it totally is!) Let’s take a moment to get into it and find out why having a board-certified expert at the head of your smile transformation is a big deal!
What Does “Board-Certified” Actually Mean?
Every orthodontist completes dental school and additional orthodontic training, but board certification goes further. Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice pursued voluntary certification through the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), which means they met rigorous national standards of excellence. Certification involves written and clinical exams and a commitment to lifelong learning.
The ABO sets the gold standard for orthodontics in the U.S. Fewer than half of all orthodontists are board-certified, which makes it a clear sign that your caregiver takes their role seriously and has a real passion for the practice of orthodontics.
Board-certified orthodontists must renew their certification regularly by proving continued clinical competency. That means Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice aren’t just coasting on old credentials—they’re constantly staying current with the latest research, technology, and treatment protocols.
A Signal of Accountability and Care
Board certification is more than a professional milestone—it’s a public promise. It tells patients that their orthodontist is accountable to a national board of peers and upholds the highest ethical and clinical standards in the field. That kind of transparency matters, especially when you’re choosing a provider for your child or trusting someone to redesign your smile.
Orthodontists who are board-certified must demonstrate not only technical ability but also a consistent record of success with real patients. Their work is scrutinized for outcomes, consistency, and alignment with best practices in orthodontic care. In that sense, certification is as much about values as it is about credentials.
It’s also worth noting that board-certified orthodontists often mentor or teach others in the field. Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice, for example, frequently share their knowledge with dental professionals in the community, elevating care standards well beyond their own office walls.
For instance, Dr. Shawn has served as the President of the 8th District Dental Society and the Tennessee Association of Orthodontists, and Dr. Candice has volunteered her time as a National Representative for the American Student Dental Association!
Why Board Certification Matters to Patients
When you trust your smile to a board-certified orthodontist in Clarksville, Nashville, or Springfield, you’re getting someone who has proven their skill not just in theory, but in practice. Whether it’s early intervention for a child or adult aligner treatment, your results—and your experience—will benefit.
Board-certified orthodontists like Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice are trained to catch problems early and craft custom solutions. This can mean faster appointments, more predictable outcomes, and fewer complications over time.
For many families, orthodontic care is a major investment. Board certification gives you the confidence that your child’s provider meets the highest standards in the field. It’s one more reason parents across the region choose About Faces and Braces for their kids’ smile journey.
Your Treatment Is Designed With Foresight
Board-certified orthodontists don’t just treat what they see—they anticipate what’s ahead. This forward-looking approach means your treatment plan accounts for everything from future growth (in kids) to long-term bite stability (in adults). It’s the difference between reacting to problems and preventing them.
When orthodontists build plans with the end result in mind, it reduces the likelihood of mid-treatment corrections or extended treatment timelines. Patients benefit from more predictable progress and fewer complications. That’s especially important in teen cases, where timing and compliance play a major role.
At About Faces and Braces, you’ll often hear our team talk about “the big picture.” That’s not just a phrase—it’s a reflection of how board certification shapes our approach to every patient who walks through the door.
What It Takes to Become Board Certified
Before an orthodontist can become board-certified, they must complete four years of dental school and 2–3 years of specialty training in orthodontics. This forms the clinical and academic foundation of their career.
Candidates must pass a written exam that covers everything from biomechanics to diagnosis. They also submit actual patient cases for peer review, showing successful outcomes and sound clinical judgment.
Certification doesn’t stop after the initial process. Every 10 years, orthodontists must complete renewal testing and show continued professional growth. It’s a career-long commitment—and one that Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice take seriously.
Not All Orthodontists Are Board-Certified—Here’s Why That Matters
Board certification is optional, which might surprise some people. Any licensed orthodontist can legally practice without it. But that’s exactly why certification matters. It’s a voluntary step taken only by those who want to prove they’re operating at the top of their profession.
When you choose About Faces and Braces, you’re not just choosing friendly care—you’re choosing providers who have gone above and beyond to show they’re the best at what they do. For patients, that often translates to fewer unexpected challenges during treatment and greater satisfaction at the end of the process.
Choosing a Board-Certified Orthodontist in Clarksville, Nashville, or Springfield
Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice bring warmth, empathy, and clinical insight to every patient interaction. Their certification is just one part of what sets them apart, but it reflects the same values that define About Faces and Braces: excellence, trust, and a personalized approach to care.
Some orthodontic challenges—like severe crowding, impacted teeth, or skeletal discrepancies—require deeper experience and insight. With board-certified doctors, you can be confident your case is being evaluated with the highest level of expertise.
Patients in and around Clarksville, Nashville, Springfield, and surrounding communities count on About Faces and Braces not just for great smiles, but for an experience that feels supportive from start to finish. Whether you’re exploring braces for kids, aligners for teens, or adult treatment options, our board-certified team is here to help.
Ready to Begin Your Smile Journey?
Your orthodontic experience should be smooth, comfortable, and confidence-boosting—and that starts with choosing a provider you can trust. At About Faces and Braces, our board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice, take pride in delivering top-tier care with a personal touch.
Schedule a free consultation today to meet our team and learn more about your options. We look forward to welcoming you!