What is a Maxillofacial Radiologist?
Have you ever wondered what in the world does this doctor do? Let’s take a brief dive into Dr. Katya Archambault’s world. A maxillofacial radiologist is not simply a dentist who prescribes radiographs; he or she is a specialist specifically trained in radiology. After earning a dental surgery degree, candidates for this specialty complete a 24 to 36 month residency program where they acquire advanced knowledge of radiation physics, biology and safety measures. This advanced training enables them to perform and interpret conventional or digital images as well as CT, CBCT and MRI examinations to diagnose and treat diseases of the orofacial region. The program also includes rotations in medical radiology and in‑depth learning about radiation protection and the effects of radiation on tissues.
The American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology points out that these practitioners are “dentists with additional advanced specialty training in radiology of the teeth and jaws.” They learn to use and interpret imaging examinations for the teeth and jaws correctly and to master the principles of radiation protection. Because of this expertise, the American Dental Association officially recognises oral and maxillofacial radiology as one of the dental specialties. A maxillofacial radiologist is therefore considered a specialist in radiology because he or she has received advanced and recognised training to use sophisticated imaging techniques and interpret them, while ensuring patient safety.
Board certification is an additional, voluntary credential beyond completing an accredited oral and maxillofacial radiology (OMR) residency. Both board‑certified and non board certified OMRs complete dental school and an advanced OMR program, but the certification process sets diplomates apart in several ways.
Education and training
All oral and maxillofacial radiologists complete dental school and then a 24‑ to 36‑month CODA‑accredited residency in OMR. This residency provides advanced training in radiation physics, radiobiology, safety, and interpretation of imaging modalities such as conventional radiographs, CT/CBCT and MRI. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (ABOMR) examinations.
What it means to be board certified
A board‑certified OMR, sometimes called a diplomate, has passed rigorous peer examinations administered by the ABOMR. The ABOMR notes that diplomates “have achieved the highest standard in clinical practice” and must “continue to update their knowledge, participate in continuous professional development, demonstrate improvement in the care they provide, and consistently meet standards of professionalism”.The certification process assesses both fundamental knowledge and diagnostic judgment. Diplomates are also required to engage in ongoing certification maintenance, regularly documenting continuing education and demonstrating that they stay current with advances in the field.
Why board certification matters
Board certification signals to patients, referring dentists and institutions that the radiologist has undergone a thorough peer‑evaluation process and continues to meet high standards. It reassures the public that a certified OMR “has successfully completed a rigorous and thorough peer evaluation process”. More broadly, professional boards such as the American Board of Radiology point out that certification serves as an “important marker for the highest standard of care” and is used by patients, healthcare providers and insurers as a measure of a clinician’s knowledge, experience and skills. Hospitals or academic institutions may require board certification for staff privileges or faculty appointments, and some referral networks and insurers prefer or mandate board‑certified specialists.
Practical implication
A non board certified OMR may legally practice if licensed and properly trained, but they lack the formal recognition of having met the specialty’s highest benchmarks. Board‑certified OMRs can identify themselves as diplomates, may have enhanced credibility with colleagues and patients, and commit to ongoing professional development and periodic re‑examination. For patients and referring dentists, choosing a board‑certified oral and maxillofacial radiologist provides assurance of expertise, adherence to up‑to‑date standards and a commitment to quality care.
