It is this sustained dedication of the entire Exam Committee that ensures the examination remains rigorous, fair, and reflective of the broad scope of our specialty. During the OCE week, that preparation comes to life as Candidates engage with each case to demonstrate focus, composure, and subject matter mastery.
The OCE stands as one of the most meaningful professional experiences at the outset of a surgeon’s career, yet its significance extends well beyond the Candidates themselves. Serving as an Examiner is also an exceptional professional development experience—one that we anticipate each year with great pride. In some cases, today’s Candidates become tomorrow’s Examiners, continuing a tradition of excellence that strengthens our specialty across generations.
Beyond the oral and maxillofacial surgery community, Board Certification signals the attainment of a nationally recognized standard of professional practice. Achieving Diplomate status provides patients, the public, licensing boards, hospitals, insurers, and professional colleagues with confidence in a surgeon’s demonstrated competence, judgment, and commitment to the highest standards of care.
On behalf of the ABOMS Board of Directors, I applaud the 2026 Candidates for taking on this important step in their professional careers and express my profound gratitude to the Examiners and volunteers whose expertise and dedication make the OCE possible.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Tiwana, DDS, MD, FACS
Vice President & 2026 OCE Chair
Read the Full Issue
Explore the full PDF edition, including this article and more ABOMS updates.
Contribute to The Diplomate Newsletter!
We welcome submissions from our community of Diplomates. Email marketing@aboms.org to contribute an article or nominate a colleague for Diplomates Making a Difference.