Not all pediatric dentists are Board Certified and not all pediatric dentists are alike.

Dr. Ryan J. Hughes received his Board status in 2006, which is the highest level of credentials within the field of Pediatric Dentistry.

The number of pediatric dentists that have reached this level is only just below 40%. 

According to the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry:

The ABPD certifies pediatric dentists based on standards of excellence that lead
to high quality oral health care for infants, children, adolescents, and patients with special health care needs. Certification by the ABPD provides assurance to the public that a pediatric dentist has successfully completed accredited training and a voluntary examination process designed to continually validate the knowledge, skills, and experience requisite to the delivery of quality patient care.

A Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD) is a pediatric dentist whose credentials have been verified and who has successfully completed voluntary examinations and who demonstrates unique knowledge and skill at a standard not possessed by other dentists.