Now that you’re in dental school, you’ve probably realized you have many tests ahead of you. One of the most challenging exams that gauge your qualifications to practice dentistry is the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE).
The NBDE is Divided Into Two Tests
Both Parts I and II must be passed in order to receive your clinical license. Make the most of your time by being prepared and studying efficiently.
Part I
- Generally taken after your first or second year of school based on your schools curriculum (after the basic science curriculum is completed).
- Subject areas focus on basic sciences:
- Anatomic Science
- Biochemistry/Physiology
- Microbiology/Pathology
- Dental Anatomy/Occlusion
- Structured as a one-day exam: 400 questions to be completed in seven hours with 20% being grouped into testlets with interdisciplinary focus and clinical application.
Part II
- Taken during the final year of dental school.
- Subject areas focus on clinical dentistry:
- Operative Dentistry
- Pharmacology
- Prosthodontics
- Oral Surgery/Pain Control
- Orthodontics/Pediatric Dentistry
- Endodontics
- Periodontics
- Oral Pathology/Radiology
- Patient Management
- Structured as a two-day exam: 400 questions to be completed in seven hours on the first day; 100 case-based questions to be completed in three and a half hours on the second day.
Prep & Study Tips
Read the NBDE Candidate Guide
Be familiar with the NBDE testing guidelines. The guide is available on the ADA website. Reviewing it will give you an idea of testing protocol, exam structure and more.
Obtain a DENTPIN
Before you can apply to take the exam, you must register for a DENTPIN. This is a unique identifier for students in the dental system. Register at www.ADA.org/dentpin.aspx.
Sign Up for a Test Date
The tests are administered by Prometric Inc., at Prometric Test Centers. Setting a test date is like having a finish line to cross. Do not wait too long to schedule the test — you don’t want to forget what you studied earlier. Also, keep in mind that many students often take these exams around the same time and spaces are limited. Plan ahead to ensure you are able reserve the date you want especially with Part II which needs to be taken on two consecutive days. Sign up here. Test dates may be rescheduled up to 48 hours in advanced for a $25 fee.
Be Realistic and Avoid Burn Out
Studying 24/7 will hurt more than help. There will be some random questions to throw you off. Focus more on expanding what you do know rather than stressing out about what you don’t know. Get fresh air and find some time to recharge.
Evaluate Your Progress
Practice tests are a good way to experience the exam and evaluate your progress. ASDA has released examinations available for purchase from the website. They may even be available at your dental school. Time yourself when you take these exams and learn from incorrect answers. It is against NBDE policy to use or distribute unreleased or remembered questions.
Study Materials
There are many great study materials available for you. Pick one or two based on your style to study thoroughly and stick to those rather than overwhelm yourself with a little bit of everything.
Practice Exams: the most realistic measure you have of the actual exam. Purchase copies at www.ASDAnet.org.
Class Notes: keep them organized for the most efficient studying.
NBDE Guidebooks: there are a few options (First-Aid, Mosby’s, etc.). Skim through to determine if the layout works for you.
Dental Decks: these are easy-to-use flashcards divided into topics. The explanations given for the questions are thorough.
Crack the NBDE: practice questions in a computer-based program to simulate the actual exam.
Review Sessions and Study Groups: set these up yourself and bounce thoughts off each other. Being able to explain concepts to others is a great way to learn something.
Test Day
Tips to make test day a success:
- Know where your test center is and how long it takes to get there.
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Remember, nothing can go into the test with you — no cell phones, watches, etc.
- Pack a nutritious lunch — you have an optional 1-hour break half-way through the exam.
- Watch this youtube video on what to expect from the test center on test day.
The Waiting Game: Tests Scores
(Test scores are mailed approximately 3-4 weeks after the examination to the used to registered for the test. The minimum passing score for the NBDE parts I and II is 75. Included in the grade report, for your own information, is also a breakdown of scores for the individual subject areas.
Pass/Fail
Traditionally, numerical scores are reported with indication of a passing or failing grade. Starting January 2012, numerical scores will be removed and performance will only be scored as pass/fail. Read about these changes from a student perspective: