General Information

1. Joining instructions and the examination timetable will be sent to candidates by the examination centre no later than two weeks before the examination.
2. The Council will send candidates their results in writing no later than nine days after the final examination.

Written Papers

1. The two written papers, each lasting three hours, will usually be held on the first day.
2. Written papers will take the form of multiple short answer questions (MSAs).

3. The questions will be designed to determine the candidate’s knowledge of the current theory and practice of all aspects of dentistry.
4. An MSA is a sharply focused question to which a succinct answer is required. MSA questions can take several forms such as list, scenario or diagram. Three examples with sample answers are attached to this leaflet.
5. Each paper will have 20 questions, all of which will have equal weighting. Candidates should attempt all questions and divide their time equally, noting that nine minutes have been allowed for each. Where several answers are required to a question, they will each be of equal weighting unless specific advice has been given to the contrary.
6. Any answers beyond those required will be disregarded.
7. Marks will not be deducted for incorrect answers.
8. An invigilator will be present during the written examinations.
9. No books, papers, mobile phones or electronic equipment may be taken into the room where the examinations are being conducted.

Examination in Clinical Dentistry

1. The examination of the patient will be conducted within a clinical setting.
2. Candidates will be allowed up to twenty minutes to examine the patient. The patient will be either an adult or a child in the deciduous or mixed dentition period.
3. The oral examination for the patient will last for fifteen minutes.
4. Candidates will be provided with paper and a pencil to make notes that may be taken into the oral examination.

Oral Examination in General Dentistry

This examination will be as set out in the ‘Guidance for Candidates’ leaflet.

Practical Clinical Examination

1. This examination will comprise the undertaking of a restorative dental procedure on a patient over a period of two hours.
2. Candidates will be allowed time to familiarise themselves with their clinical surroundings and equipment and to introduce themselves to their patient.
3. There will normally be a minimum of two examiners for eight candidates.
4. At the beginning of this part of the examination, candidates will be invited to discuss their proposed treatment plan and practical procedures (including the use of local anaesthesia) with the examiners. This and subsequent discussions will contribute to the assessment of the exercise.
5. In order to prepare for this discussion candidates will be expected to review the patient notes and other records provided (radiographs, study models etc), to have updated the patient’s medical history, and to have examined the patient.
6. Candidates must not proceed with treatment until the examiners have approved the treatment plan.
7. If at any stage difficulties arise or there is a need to depart from the original treatment plan, candidates should note that this must be discussed with the examiners before proceeding.
8. Candidates will be provided with all dental materials, instruments and equipment necessary for the specified clinical procedure, including protective clothing.
9. Candidates may not bring items to the examination other than their own protective glasses and magnifying loupes.
10. No texts, notes, mobile phones or electronic equipment may be brought in to the clinical area.
11. During the examination candidates should observe and employ appropriate cross infection control and those measures designed to protect their patient, themselves and staff from hazards (disposal of sharps, use of rubber dam, eye protection, etc).
12. Where additional radiographs are required, assistance with operating unfamiliar equipment will be provided.
13. Candidates will be given every reasonable opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. On occasion, treatment plans have to be modified; this is taken into account by the examiners.
14. Every effort will be made to commence the clinical examination on time but patients may be late or be unable to attend. Candidates should be aware that start times are sometimes delayed or staggered.

Examination in Medical Emergencies

1. This examination will be as set out in the ‘Guidance for Candidates’ leaflet.

Candidates are advised to undertake formal, appropriate CPR training prior to sitting this examination.