The mission of the American Board of General Dentistry is to elevate the standards and advance the science and arts of General Dentistry by encouraging its study and improving its practice.

To certify a general dentist as a Comprehensive General Dentist though a voluntary examination process that validates their knowledge, skill, and experience for diagnosis and delivering quality patient treatment

Excellence in Oral Health Care

Every Board Certified Comprehensive General Dentist is inspired to provide extraordinary quality oral health care and maximize patient outcomes through the continuous participation in the certification process.

ABGD values the provision of the highest quality oral health care for our patients.
Such care is thoughtful, careful, ethical, and based on the current scientific evidence.

A Fair and Valid Examination

ABGD values a fair and valid testing process for board certification and renewal of certification in Comprehensive General Dentistry. Such a testing process is based on the current knowledge in professional and educational testing. The process is psychometrically evaluated continuously to insure that it is of the highest quality and accurately assesses the candidate’s knowledge, skill and judgment. A fair and valid examination requires skilled, committed and adequately trained examiners.

Commitment to Lifelong Learning

ABGD values a health professional’s commitment to lifelong learning. ABGD values candidates’ and Diplomates’ desire to practice comprehensive dentistry at the highest level and their commitment to constantly reevaluate their practices in light of the most recent scientific evidence. ABGD recognizes the value of renewal of certification and continuing education for health professionals.

Quality Improvement in Health Care

ABGD values quality improvement in health care through objective assessment of outcomes and process. It supports efforts to provide optimal health care to all patients.

ABGD embraces integrity and accountability in guiding and empowering dentists to engage in continuous competency.

Collaboration

ABGD values working with the academic community and other professionals to achieve a unified vision. It supports academics by providing tools to assist advanced education residency programs. It provides continuing education in advanced concepts of diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient treatment. And it provides expert consultation to the medical and dental communities.