NBDE Exam & NBDE Certification Info
Who is the NBDE and where to take their certification exams
The National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) is a series of exams required to become a licensed dentist in the United States. The exams are administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE) and overseen by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Step 1: Eligibility and Application
Before taking the exam, candidates must meet eligibility requirements. This usually involves graduating from an accredited dental school. Once eligible, candidates can apply for the NBDE through the ADA's website (www.ada.org) and pay the necessary fees.
Step 2: Scheduling the Exam
Once the application is approved, candidates will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule their exam. The exams are administered at Prometric test centers throughout the U.S. Candidates can choose their preferred test center and date based on availability.
Step 3: Taking the Exam
On the day of the exam, candidates should arrive at the test center early with appropriate identification. The NBDE Part I is a 400-question, multiple-choice exam taken over a seven-hour period. The NBDE Part II is a 500-question, multiple-choice exam taken over a two-day period.
Location Information and Website
The NBDE exams are administered at Prometric test centers. There are hundreds of these centers across the U.S., so candidates should be able to find one near their location. The ADA's website provides information about the NBDE, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and study resources. You can also schedule your exam and find your nearest Prometric test center on this website.For more specific information, the ADA's website is the best resource. There, you can find detailed information about the NBDE, including how to prepare for the exams, what to expect on exam day, and how to interpret your scores. You can also find contact information if you have any questions or need further assistance.
ADA - National Dental Boards Exams
The National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I is a comprehensive certification test for dental students. Administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations, it assesses the mastery of basic biomedical science knowledge. The exam covers areas such as anatomy, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, and dental anatomy. The NBDE Part I is a crucial step for students aiming to pursue a professional practice in dentistry, as it's a prerequisite for licensure in the United States. The test is a day-long, computer-based exam, composed of 400 multiple-choice questions.
Biochemistry-Physiology - 25%
Microbiology-Pathology - 25%
Dental Anatomy and Occlusion - 25%
The National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part II is a comprehensive certification test for dental students across the US. Administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations, it assesses the candidate's understanding of clinical dentistry and patient management. This two-day exam covers areas like dental pharmacology, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry and oral surgery. Successful completion of this exam, along with Part I, is a prerequisite for obtaining a dental license in the United States.
Operative Dentistry
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery / Pain Control
Oral Diagnosis
Orthodontics / Pediatric Dentistry
Patient Management
Periodontics
Pharmacology
Prosthodontics
The National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) certification test is a comprehensive and rigorous assessment for prospective dental hygienists in the United States. Administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations, the test evaluates the candidate's understanding of basic biomedical sciences, dental hygiene sciences, and the ability to apply relevant knowledge and skills. Successful completion of the NBDHE is a prerequisite for obtaining licensure or certification in most states, ensuring that the dental hygienist meets national standards for professional practice.
Provision of Clinical Dental Hygiene Services
Community Health/Research Principles
The National Board Dental Hygiene Examination Part B is a comprehensive test for dental hygienists in the U.S. It assesses their understanding of dental hygiene practices and theories, as well as their abilities to apply this knowledge in various clinical situations. The test covers topics such as disease prevention, patient management, and health promotion, using multiple-choice questions. This certification is essential for practicing dental hygiene professionally in the U.S., ensuring all hygienists meet certain standards of care and knowledge in the field.
Obtaining and interpreting radiographs
Planning and managing dental hygiene care
Performing periodontal procedures
Using preventive agents
Providing supportive treatment service
Professional Responsibility