Drs. McNicholas, Jönsson, and Ferraro are Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics. A Diplomate is also referred to as being "board certified". Endodontists are not required to become board certified, and about 1 in 5 Endodontists have done so. The commitment to become a Diplomate is significant, and takes between 2-8 years of additional work beyond Endodontic residency to complete. It is the highest credential that Endodontists can acheive, and represents a personal commitment to excellence within the speciality.
Upon completion of an Endodontic residency, graduates receive a certificate which allows them to declare their Endodontic specialty. Most of todays graduating Endodontists will also likley be "board eligible" which means that they are qualified to pursue board certification. However, to become a Diplomate, one must:
- Pass the Board's written examination of endodontic science and literature.
- Accumulate and present a detailed treatment portfolio of their own endodontic cases that demonstrate expert technical ability and judgement.
- Pass a series of oral examinations given by a panel of board examiners.