A Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist completes four years of undergraduate education, four years of dental school and, at minimum, two years of residency.  At the end of residency, the pediatric dentist is given the opportunity to become board-certified.  The dentist must pass a rigorous written and oral examination covering all material from dental school and residency.  With completion and passing of the series of examinations, the candidate is recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.  To uphold one’s diplomacy, the pediatric dentist must complete extensive yearly continuing education in the field of expertise.