IQE Part B is in some ways is even harder than part A!

Part B is predominantly a practical examination, and our forthcoming video series
will be a great help with this (we expect to have our first videos in early April 2007) – please keep an eye out for these.

IQE Part B Test

1. The test will comprise two sessions of three hours duration.

2. Candidates will be allowed adequate time to familiarise themselves with the equipment and materials available before the examination proper commences.

3. There will normally be a minimum of two examiners for ten candidates.

4. The examination will be timed so as to separate the two three hour sessions with a mandatory lunch break.

5. IQE Part B is more than just a mechanistic test of clinical skills. It is a simulated clinical assessment and all aspects of care will form part of this process. This will include aspects of health and safety (including the use of gloves, masks and eye protection where appropriate), the justification of the use and number of radiographs, and the simulated clinical operating position which must be similar to that which is achievable with a patient.

6. Candidates are required to carry out the following four exercises, all of which must be completed in the time allotted:

• An exercise for a dental amalgam restoration in an upper, posterior tooth involving a proximal surface;
• An exercise for an adhesive tooth coloured filling material to restore a proximal lesion in upper incisor tooth;
• Prepare a tooth to receive a full coverage crown;
• Carry out root canal treatment on a single rooted toot

7. Candidates will be tested verbally in knowledge of applied dental material science during the course of the operative test.

8. Artificial teeth will be used for most or all exercises and candidates will be allowed an opportunity for familiarisation.

9. Candidates will be provided with pre-operative radiographs for the endodontic exercise. The taking of further radiographs is not part of the examination and the Examiners will explain the arrangements for them to be taken.

10. No individual exercises should be started before the treatment has been discussed with the examiners.

11. All treatment procedures must be carried out with the model mounted in the phantom head.

12. Each stage of the examination, as indicated below, must be shown to the examiners. Candidates will be expected to discuss aspects of the treatment which has been carried out with both of the examiners. These discussions will contribute to the assessment of each exercise.

13. Any unexpected problems or difficulties which are encountered must be discussed with the examiners before proceeding.

14. Candidates are not permitted to use their own instruments and materials. These will be supplied by the dental authority.

15. Candidates must wear gloves, masks and eye protection.

16. The issue of briefing notes to candidates is commended as good practice.

17. Candidates are reminded that they have the opportunity, should they so wish, to comment on their completed work. This could take the form of a short written statement.