Diplomates
Find out the types of Board Certified diplomates that comprise our organization
ExploreWho is a Diplomate?
A diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry is a pediatric dentist whose credentials have been verified, who has successfully completed voluntary examinations, and who demonstrates specialized knowledge and skill. A diplomate is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care through a voluntary commitment to lifelong learning.
Time-limited Diplomate
A Board Candidate who has successfully completed the certification process is a Time-limited diplomate. Time-limited diplomates must complete the Annual Diplomate Renewal, including payment of fee, attestation of having a current dental license, and submission of credentials, and complete the required elements of the Renewal of Certification Process (ROC-P) on an annual basis.
Unlimited Diplomate
A Board Candidate who applied prior to September 1, 1991, and successfully completed the certification process is an Unlimited diplomate. Unlimited diplomates must complete the Annual Diplomate Renewal, including payment of fee, attestation of having a current dental license, and submission of credentials annually to remain active. Participation in ROC-P is on a voluntary basis.
Life Diplomate
An active diplomate who has been in good standing for at least 10 years and has reached the age of sixty-five (65) is a Life diplomate. A Life diplomate must have an active license to practice dentistry and submit their credentials annually to remain active. Time-limited diplomates who enter Life status will be required to complete all annual requirements (Annual Diplomate Renewal, Continuing Education, Continuous Quality Improvement modules, and Renewal of Certification Examination); however, the renewal fee will be waived. Participation in ROC-P is on a voluntary basis for those Life Diplomates who previously were Unlimited diplomates.
Retired Diplomate
A diplomate who has completely retired from the practice of dentistry (administration and/or teaching), has been a diplomate in good standing, and has no pending actions or investigations against any dental licenses may apply for Retired status. The “practice of dentistry” is defined here as the clinical practice of dentistry, teaching of dentistry, dental practice ownership where a license to practice dentistry is required, dental practice consulting, or dental administration.
If a Retired status diplomate returns to the practice of dentistry, they must inform ABPD staff within thirty (30) days, at which time their status will be changed back to the status prior to retirement, and requirements for that status will be in effect. If a diplomate has been designated as Retired status for three (3) or more years and returns to practice, they will be required to successfully complete the Revalidation Examination to reactivate their diplomate status.
