Guide Nbde

National Board Dental
Examination, Part II
2015 Guide
Read this Guide before submitting an application to test.

At the time of application, you will be required to acknowledge
that you have read and understood this Guide and the policies
and procedures contained within.
Print this Guide for your records.
NBDE Part I I Guide 2015 Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations

All rights reserved.
211 East Chicago Avenue

Chicago, Illinois 60611-2637
800.232.1694
ADA.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEW
About this Guide ...2
Dental Licensure and the NBDE 2
Purpose of the National Board Dental Examinations ..3
Recognition of NBDE Certification .3
Ethical Conduct and the Licensure Process for Dentists 3
EXAMINATION CONTENT AND EXAM PREPARATION MATERIALS
Exam Specifications .5
Sample Item Formats .9
Examination Preparation ...10
Confidentiality of Examination Materials .11
RESULTS INFORMATION
Scoring ...11
Reporting ..12
Reports .12
Results Audits 13
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Dental Student 13
Former Dental Student...13
Dentist ...14
Eligibility for Reexamination 15
EXAMINATION APPLICATION AND APPOINTMENT INFORMATION
Test Centers 16
Examination Fees 17
Examination Schedule 17
Obtain a DENTPIN and Apply for Examination .18
Privacy and Security ...19
Schedule a Testing Appointment ..20
Reschedule or Cancel a Testing Appointment...21
Testing Accommodations ..22
Request for Testing Accommodations and Appropriate Documentation ......22
Unacceptable Forms of Documentation 24
EXAMINATION RULES AND REGULATIONS
Rules of Conduct .24
Test Center Procedures .27
Examination Regulations and Prohibited Conduct 29
EXAMINATION IRREGULARITIES AND MISCONDUCT
Irregularities and Appeals .33
Arbitration Requirement .34
1
NBDE Part II Guide
2015 Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations
OVERVIEW
About this Guide
This document is the official guide to policies for the National

Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part II. It provides
information about application and examination procedures,
examination content and scoring.
You are required to read this document before you apply to take the examination.
At the time of application, you will be required to confirm that you have read this
document, understood its contents, and agree to the policies and procedures
contained herein.
Changes in the NBDE Part II may occur after publication of this Guide, and will be posted
here. You will be subject to the policies and procedures in effect at the time you test.
Dental Licensure
and the NBDE
Licensure of dentists in the United States is the responsibility of

an individual state, district, or jurisdiction. A license issued by
one such authority is applicable only within the geographic
confines of that particular jurisdiction. Agencies in state
government that administer dental licensure under laws adopted
by state legislatures typically are called state boards of
dentistry. A list of state boards can be found at
www.dentalboards.org.
Specific dental licensure requirements vary among jurisdictions,
but all jurisdictions have three basic requirements: an
educational requirement, a written examination requirement, and
a clinical examination requirement. All jurisdictions accept
graduation from a dental school accredited by the Commission
on Dental Accreditation (CODA) as fulfilling the educational
requirement. Most jurisdictions also accept graduation from a
Canadian dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental
Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).
The NBDE Part II is intended to fulfill or partially fulfill the written
examination requirement, but acceptance of NBDE results is
completely at the discretion of the individual state. A state may
place any limit on acceptance of NBDE results that it deems
appropriate. For example, some states accept NBDE results
only if earned within the last five to ten years.
The Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE)
is the agency responsible for the development and administration
of the National Board Dental Examinations. This 15-member
2
NBDE Part II Guide

Dental Licensure
and the NBDE
Commission includes representatives of dental schools, dental

practice, state dental examining boards, dental hygiene, dental
students, and the public.
(Continued)
Clinical examinations may be conducted by state boards of

dentistry, or by regional or independent clinical testing agencies.
Purpose of the
National Board Dental
Examinations
Recognition of NBDE
Certification
The purpose of the NBDE Part I and NBDE Part II examinations

is to assist state boards in determining qualifications of dentists
who seek licensure to practice dentistry. The examinations
assess the ability to understand important information from the
biomedical and dental sciences, and the ability to apply such
information in a problem-solving context. State boards use the
information provided by the National Board Examinations to help
protect the public health.
Currently, all United States licensing jurisdictions recognize
NBDE results. These jurisdictions include all 50 states, the
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands
of the United States.
Dentists play an important role in society by providing oral health
services that contribute to the health and well-being of individuals
and their communities. The dental profession requires its
members to behave ethically in the practice of dentistry at all
times. This obligation begins at the time of application to dental
school and continues through the educational process, the
licensure process and the entirety of professional practice.
Ethical Conduct and the

Licensure Process for
Dentists
The American Dental Associations Principles of Ethics and Code
of Professional Conduct defines and explains the expectations
for ethical conduct in the following way:
The dental profession holds a special position of trust within
society. Consequently, society affords the profession certain
privileges that are not available to members of the public-atlarge. In return, the profession makes a commitment to society
that its members will adhere to high ethical standards of conduct.
These standards are embodied in the ADA Principles of Ethics
and Code of Professional Conduct (ADA Code). The ADA Code
is, in effect, a written expression of the obligations arising from
the implied contract between the dental profession and society.
Members of the profession voluntarily abide by the ADA Code in
the interest of protecting patients and maintaining the trust of
society.
NBDE applicants are expected to abide by these ethical
standards and to read, understand and comply with the Rules of
Conduct and Examination Regulations guiding the examinations.
The obligation to abide by the ethical standards of the profession
3
NBDE Part II Guide
Ethical Conduct and the

Licensure Process for
Dentists
(Continued)
includes a commitment to honesty, truthfulness, full disclosure,

accuracy, fairness, and integrity in completing the examination
application, in the examination process itself and in applying for
licensure.
The purpose of the examination is to ensure that each
examination candidate and applicant for licensure has achieved
the level of knowledge, skill, and judgment necessary to practice
in a safe and responsible manner. Accordingly, all candidates
are expected to pass the examination on their own merit without
assistance, and are expected to maintain the confidentiality of the
examination. Members of the public who entrust dentists with
their well-being expect that they are trustworthy and competent
individuals.
Behavior that results in misconduct or irregularity in the licensure
examination process is a very serious matter. Violation of the
NBDE Rules of Conduct or the Examination Regulations may
result in civil liability, voiding of examination results or other
appropriate penalty. Under certain circumstances, misconduct
or irregularity in the examination process may be reported to the
relevant licensing authority. A candidate who acts unethically
risks potential delay, denial, suspension, or loss of
licensure.
The JCNDE, the state boards of dentistry, and the profession atlarge expect strong ethical behavior in all candidates for
licensure. The JCNDE annually publishes information about the
policies and procedures applicable to misconduct and
irregularities in the NBDE application and examination process.
This information is available in this document beginning on page
34. The JCNDE expects all candidates to carefully read and
understand this information and their obligations as candidates
for National Board certification. Questions regarding these
principles and policies should be directed to the JCNDE.
Examination items are selected by test construction committees
composed of subject-matter experts in accordance with
examination specifications approved by the JCNDE.
The Universal/National System for tooth notation that has been
adopted by the American Dental Association is used on all
National Board Dental and Dental Hygiene Examinations. This
system is a sequential tooth numbering system, designating the
permanent dentition (numbers 1-32), and the primary dentition
(letters A-T).
4
NBDE Part II Guide
EXAMINATION CONTENT
Exam
Specifications
The NBDE Part II is a comprehensive examination and consists

of 500 exam items. For each discipline, approximately 80% of
the items are intermingled, discipline-based and approximately
20% are interdisciplinary case-based items. A case consists of a
patient scenario/history and a set of items from the various
disciplines that are associated with the scenario.
The exam items that comprise the disciplineDiscipline-Based
based component are derived from the
Component
following disciplines:
(400 items)
1. Endodontics
2. Operative Dentistry
3. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery / Pain
Control
4. Oral Diagnosis
5. Orthodontics / Pediatric Dentistry
6. Patient Management
7. Periodontics
8. Pharmacology
9. Prosthodontics
The case-based component of the NBDE
Case-Based
Part II presents events dealing with actual
Component
patients. The patient cases are developed to
(100 items)
include the following approximate
distribution: Adults (70%), Children (30 %).
A minimum of 15 percent of Component B
exam questions will address the medical
management of compromised adults and
children. A compromised patient is defined
as a person whose health status requires
modification of standard treatment.
Each case presentation in the examination
consists of:
1. synopsis of a patient's health and
social histories,
2. patient dental charting,
3. diagnostic radiographs, and
4. clinical photographs of the patient
(when necessary).
Each case contains from 10 to 15 questions
about various aspects of this patient's dental
care. These questions, totaling 100 for all of
the cases, might derive from any of the basic
sciences and clinical disciplines, including
Patient Management. The proportion
stemming from any particular discipline
5
NBDE Part II Guide
depends upon the nature of the case itself.

For example, the case of an elderly adult
might be based upon Maxillofacial Surgery /
Pain Control, Prosthodontics, and Operative
Dentistry; whereas, a child's case might
derive from Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry,
and Patient Management.
Case-Based
Component
(100 items)
Exam Specifications
(Continued)
(Continued)
In responding to case-based items, the

candidate must:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Interpret the findings and

information provided.
Identify the problems and make
diagnoses.
Select materials, technique, and
armamentarium.
Apply treatment.
Evaluate progress and
complications.
Establish procedures for prevention
and maintenance.
ENDODONTICS * [31 items]

Topic
# of
Items
1
Clinical Diagnosis, Case Selection, Treatment Planning, and Patient Management
19
2
Basic Endodontic Treatment Procedures
7
3
Procedural Complications
1
4
Traumatic Injuries
1
5
Adjunctive Endodontic Therapy
1
6
Post-Treatment Evaluation
2
*The American Association of Endodontists Glossary of Endodontic Terms is used in reference to
endodontic pathoses. The endodontics diagnostic terminology adopted by AAE as described in the
December 2009 Journal of Endodontics [Volume 35, Number 12, p.1634], is incorporated in the NBDE
Part II.
Examination forms for the NBDE Part II rely exclusively on the following endodontic terms, adopted by the
American Association of Endodontists (AAE) in 2009.
6
NBDE Part II Guide
OPERATIVE DENTISTRY [44 items]

1
2
3
4
5
Dental Caries
Examination, Diagnosis, & Treatment Planning
General Operative Procedures
Preparation of Cavities
Restoration of Prepared Cavities
1
2
3
4
5
Surgery
Anxiety and Pain Control
Medical Assessment and Emergency Care
Treatment Plan
Diagnosis
1
2
Oral Pathology
Oral Radiology
1
2
3
4
5
Individual Tooth Pathology

Supporting Tissue Pathology
Dentofacial Variations
Behavior
Systemic Pathology
8
27
3
3
3
ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY/PAIN CONTROL [47 items]

15
3
19
6
4
ORAL DIAGNOSIS [45 items]

35
10
ORTHODONTICS/PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY [52 items]

15
8
9
10
10
7
NBDE Part II Guide
PATIENT MANAGEMENT [51 items]

1
2
3
5
6
7
8
9
10
Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Anxiety and Pain Control
Health Behavior Change
Disabled and Medically Compromised
Epidemiology
Prevention of Oral Diseases
Evaluation of Dental Literature
Infection Control
Materials and Equipment Safety
Professional Responsibility/Liability
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Diagnosis
Etiology
Pathogenesis
Treatment Planning
Prognosis
Therapy
Prevention and Maintenance
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
General Principles
Central Nervous System
Autonomic
Cardiovascular
Local Anesthetics
Chemotherapy
Endocrines/Immunosuppressants
Analgesics
Antihistamines and Autocoids
9
5
3
5
8
1
5
2
1
12
PERIODONTICS [48]
7
4
1
8
1
20
7
PHARMACOLOGY [31]
6
4
2
2
3
5
2
5
2
PROSTHODONTICS [51]
1
2
3
General Considerations
Complete and Removable Partial Denture Prosthodontics
Fixed Partial Prosthodontics
8
NBDE Part II Guide
22
10
19
A multiple-choice examination item consists of

a stem, which poses a problem, followed by a
list of possible answers. The stem of an
examination item is usually either a question
or an incomplete statement. For NBDE
purposes, an item must have at least three
and not more than five possible responses.
Only one of the responses listed is considered
either the correct or best option. Some
examples of examination item formats are:
Sample Item Formats
Completion: Completion-type items require the correct

completion of a concept or idea.
Paired True-False: The only portion of a paired true-false

examination item that varies is the stem. The stem consists of
two sentences on the same topic.
The area of the tooth that is the most sensitive to cavity

preparation is the
In health, bone is constantly undergoing resorption and

formation.
A. dentin.
B. enamel.
C. cementum.
D. cementoenamel junction.
E. dentoenamel junction.
In periodontitis, only bone resorption occurs.

A. Both statements are true.
B. Both statements are false.
C. The first statement is true, the second is false.
D. The first statement is false, the second is true.
Question: Question-type items communicate a problem or set

of circumstances.
Cause and Effect: The only portion of a cause-and-effect test

item that varies is the stem. The stem consists of a statement
and a reason. These are written as a single sentence and are
connected by the word because.
Which of the following has the potential for undergoing

spontaneous malignant transformation?
A traumatic injury can cause the pulp space to calcify, because

the accident can trigger odontoclasts into accelerated activity.
A. Osteomalacia
B. Albright's syndrome
C. Paget's disease of bone
D. Osteogenesis imperfecta
E. Von Recklinghausen disease of bone
A. Both the statement and the reason are correct and

related.
B. Both the statement and the reason are correct but
NOT related.
C. The statement is correct, but the reason is NOT.
D. The statement is NOT correct, but the reason is
correct.
E. NEITHER the statement NOR the reason is correct
Negative: A negative item is characterized by a word such as

EXCEPT or NOT in the stem. These key words are capitalized
to help candidates determine the correct answer.
Each of the following drugs is appropriate for the treatment of
cardiac arrhythmia EXCEPT one. Which one is the
EXCEPTION?
A. Phenytoin
B. Lidocaine
C. Quinidine
D. Propranolol
E. Epinephrine
9
NBDE Part II Guide
Examination
Preparation
The JCNDE recommends that you use textbooks and lecture

notes as primary sources for study. Although some previous
questions from the NBDE are periodically released, the JCNDE
believes they are best used to familiarize you with exam item
formats. The JCNDE does not guarantee that the information in
released NBDE materials is accurate, current, or relevant.
Released materials may no longer be consistent with the current
exam specifications, content emphasis or examination structure.
Due to the dynamic nature of dental practice and the biomedical
sciences, these materials may be outdated. You are cautioned
not to limit your preparation for the examination to the review of
released items.
Copies of released items may be purchased from the American
Student Dental Association (ASDA), 800.621.8099 (x 2795),
312.440.2795, or www.asdanet.org. Official released items can
be identified by the ADA copyright insignia at the bottom of the
document pages.
The JCNDE does not endorse or recommend any specific texts
or other teaching aids (e.g. review courses) that are identified as
NBDE preparation materials.
Tutorial
A tutorial will soon be available to familiarize you with the
mechanics of taking the NBDE Part II. The tutorial provides the
opportunity to become familiar with the steps involved in
proceeding through the examination.
At the Prometric Test Center, you will be able to take a brief
optional tutorial before beginning the actual examination.
Test Drive
Additionally, you may become familiar with the testing experience
through Prometric's Test Drive. In 30 minutes, you will
experience an overview of the testing experience you will
encounter on the actual testing day. During the overview, you
may participate in:
10
NBDE Part II Guide
Examination
Preparation
(Continued)
The scheduling and registration process

The complete check-in process
Introduction to test center staff and surroundings
A live 15-minute sample test (generic test not NBDE Part
II) demonstrating the testing process
Full preparation for the real examination
Visit Prometrics Test Drive for further details and pricing.
Confidentiality of
Examination Materials
Current exam items comprise confidential examination

material. Obtaining, using, and/or distributing current exam
items is strictly prohibited, regardless of the method
employee, (e.g., whether by memorization, recording,
copying, etc.). This prohibition includes the distribution or
online posting of remembered exam questions or answers,
in whole or in part.
Use or sharing of current exam items violates the
Examination Regulations. Such activities may provide
unfair advantage to individuals and threaten the validity and
credibility of the examination. Since all examinations are
copyrighted property, these activities also violate Federal
Copyright Laws.
The JCNDE investigates reports or allegations associating
candidates with the generation, use, or sharing of current
examination materials, and will pursue formal action against
candidates who violate the Examination Regulations or
Federal Copyright Law, which may include voiding of exam
results or institution of legal action.
RESULT INFORMATION
Scoring
A candidates total score is computed by the total number of

correct answers selected by the candidate. The total score is
then converted to a scale score, which adjusts for any minor
differences in difficulty across NBDE Part II forms.
Scale scores range from 49 to 99, with a score of 75 representing
the minimum passing score (regardless of the particular
examination form completed by the candidate). Because the
NBDE Part II is a criterion-referenced examination, the minimum
passing score is determined by experts through standard setting
activities.
11
NBDE Part II Guide
Reporting
The results for the NBDE Part II will be reported as pass/fail only
for candidates who pass the exam. For remediation purposes,
candidates who fail the examination will receive numerical scores
for each of the major disciplines covered on the exam. If you
tested prior to 2012, your numerical scores for prior attempts will
still be reported.
The status of pass is reported if you achieved a standard score
of 75 or higher. The status of fail is reported if you achieved a
standard score below 75; if you fail the exam, you are required to
repeat the examination.
Results are mailed approximately three weeks after the
examination. JCNDE examination regulations prohibit reporting
results by telephone, fax, e-mail, in person or online.
Reports
By signing the application, a candidate enrolled in an accredited

dental school (or graduated within the last five years) gives
express permission to provide exam results to the dean of the
dental school. The results are provided to others only if
permission is granted in the form of a results report request from
the candidate. If misconduct has occurred in a past
administration, your score report may contain information
concerning the incident (see Examination Irregularities and
Misconduct).
If your address changes after you submit your application
and before you receive your result report, you must update
your DENTPIN information by using the Update Your
DENTPIN link located on the DENTPIN homepage. Updates
made on the Update Your DENTPIN page do not automatically
update your examination application or results report request.
After receiving your results report, you may request that
additional reports be sent to other entities. You should confirm
the accuracy of your result report request. Processing of
additional requests requires approximately three weeks.
Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
A results report request is available here. The JCNDE will provide
a history of your results (recent and previous) for the NBDE Part I
and Part II to state boards of dentistry and additional recipients.
12
NBDE Part II Guide
As a routine part of the overall validation process, the responses

from the NBDE Part II are audited for accuracy before results are
distributed. However, you may request to have your examination
responses audited or re-checked for accuracy by completing and
submitting the Audit Request Form (PDF). There is an additional
charge for this service (see the Examination Fees section of this
Guide). Audits require approximately six to eight weeks to
complete and must be requested within 30 days of the reporting
date on the official report of results.
Results Audits
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
The JCNDE does not discriminate based on race/ethnicity, religion, gender, age, disability,
sexual orientation, or marital status.
A candidate is eligible for the NBDE Part II only after successful completion of the NBDE Part I.
Exceptions to this provision are granted only at the written request of a dental licensing board.
In case of exception, the candidate's results are reported, but no National Board certificate is
issued. The candidate must not have failed the NBDE Part I within the past five years. Such a
request must be presented on the letterhead of the board of dentistry and must indicate that
NBDE Part II results will be a determinant in the initial or continued licensure of the candidate.
To participate in Part II of the NBDE, a candidate must qualify through one of the following
provisions:
Dental Student Accredited

U.S./Canadian Dental
School
Dental Student
Non-Accredited Dental
School
Former Dental Student
A student in a dental education program accredited by

CODA is eligible for examination when the dean of the
dental school (or designee) verifies that the student is
prepared in all NBDE Part II disciplines.
Visit CODA for a listing of accredited dental programs.
A dental student attending a non-accredited dental school

can also be eligible for examination. If the dental school
is not CODA accredited, certification must be provided on
the Certification of Eligibility form (PDF). The completed
certification form must include the seal of the university
and the signature of the dean or the registrar.
A former dental student who has completed courses in

preparation for NBDE Part II, but is no longer enrolled in
13
NBDE Part II Guide

Former Dental Student

(Continued)
Dentist - Graduate of
Accredited
U.S./Canadian Dental
School
the same dental school is eligible for examination only if

admitted or conditionally admitted to another CODA
accredited dental school; conditionally admitted is defined
as admission contingent upon successful completion of
the NBDE Part II.
Verification must be in the form of a letter from the dean
of the CODA accredited dental school.
A dentist who is an active, life, or retired member of the
American Dental Association at the time the application is
eligible for examination without further documentation.
An affiliate member or a non-member must submit
verification that he/she is a dentist. Such verification must
be in the form of a letter of recommendation from one of
the following:
1. The secretary of a board of dentistry of a United
States licensing jurisdiction in which the individual
is licensed or eligible for licensure as a dentist.
2. The dean or registrar of an accredited dental
school from which the dentist graduated.
Graduates of non-accredited dental schools must
have evidence of graduation verified and
submitted as described under Non-Accredited
Dental School Graduate.
3. The dean, director or registrar of an accredited
dental school at which the dentist studied or is
studying at the post-graduate level.
Dentists who were deemed eligible to take NBDE Part I
only because they were being considered for admission
with advanced standing to an accredited dental school
must submit a letter of recommendation from one of the
three sources listed above, unless they were admitted to
an accredited dental school. The letter should state the
school that granted the DDS/DMD degree, the degree,
and when it was granted.
Dentist - Graduate of a
School
The following provisions are required for the verification of

educational credentials obtained from non-accredited dental
schools (schools not accredited by the CODA or CDAC Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada).
You must have official dental school transcripts verified by
Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc. (ECE)
14
NBDE Part II Guide

Dentist - Graduate of a
School
(Continued)
If you do not have a DENTPIN you must register for one through
the DENTPIN homepage prior to submitting an ECE report.
ECE reports that the JCNDE cannot match to a DENTPIN using
your name and date of birth will not be retained.
ECE prepares evaluation reports that identify U.S. equivalents of
educational qualifications earned in other countries.
Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
P.O. Box 514070, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-3470
414.289.3400) or www.ece.org
1. Contact Educational Credential Evaluators,
Inc. (ECE) and request a General Report. The
ECE evaluation report request will describe
what documents are required, the manner in
which to submit them to ECE, and the
applicable fee. To request an evaluation
report, visit www.ece.org, select Start Your
Evaluation Request and request that a
General Report be sent to the JCNDE.
2. Only official reports electronically transmitted
from ECE, Inc. to the JCNDE will be accepted.
Personal copies are not acceptable.
3. The JCNDE will not process an examination
application before the ECE Evaluation Report
is received.
4. The name on the ECE report must match the
name on your application exactly. Any name
changes must be accompanied by legal
documentation.
If you submitted a satisfactory ECE Report for the NBDE Part I,
you do not need to re-submit another ECE report for the NBDE
Part II.
Eligibility for
Reexamination
Candidates who have passed the NBDE Part II may not retake
the examination unless required by a state board or relevant
regulatory agency.
Candidates who have not passed may apply for reexamination.

An examination attempt is defined as any examination
administration where the candidate has been seated at a
15
NBDE Part II Guide
computer at a test center, and electronically agreed to the

confidentiality statement to start the examination.
Eligibility for
Reexamination
A minimum of 90 days must separate a candidates

reexamination of the NBDE Part II.
(Continued)
NBDE Part II candidates who have not passed an

examination after three attempts will be required to wait 12
months after their third attempt before they can apply for
reexamination.
After the 12-month waiting period has lapsed, a new cycle will
apply. Candidates are encouraged to seek formal remediation
before reexamination.
Under the JCNDEs 5 Years/5 Attempts Eligibility Rule,
candidates must pass the examination within a) five years of
their first attempt or b) five examination attempts, whichever
comes first.
This applies to examination attempts occurring on or after
January 1, 2012. Examination attempts occurring prior to this
date are not considered under this regulation.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION
The NBDE Part II is administered by Prometric, Inc. at Prometric
Test Centers in the United States, its territories (including Guam,
Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands), and in Canada.
Test Centers
After your application has been processed, you will receive an

email with testing appointment scheduling instructions. You can
visit Prometric or call 800.688.5804 to schedule a testing
appointment. The Prometric Contact Center will NOT schedule a
candidate before receiving authorization from the JCNDE.
Additionally, local test centers cannot schedule, reschedule, or
cancel appointments.
16
NBDE Part II Guide
Examination Fees
Fees are not refundable and not transferable. The following indicates examination fees:
Title
NBDE Part II fee
NBDE Processing
Fee for NonAccredited
Candidate
Result Report Fee
(optional)
Result Audit Fee
(optional)
NB Certificate
Description
This fee includes official result reporting to you and
the dean of the accredited dental school. Your score
report is sent to the address on your DENTPIN.
This handling/processing fee is for candidates who
are students or graduates from a non-CODA
accredited dental school.
The fee for recipients NOT selected at the time of
application.
The JCNDE is willing to audit your NBDE Part II
results within 30 days of the reporting date on your
official results report.
As part of the results report, a small National Board
certificate is issued to each candidate who passes
both the NBDE Part I and the NBDE Part II. You
may also order a full-size (8" x 11") certificate with
optional frame(s).
Fee
$465
$100
$34 per result

report/ school
$65
The order form
is available
here.
Rescheduling fees are as follows:

Number of Days Prior to Testing Appointment**
24 business hours before to 5 business days prior to the testing
appointment.
6 to 30 business days prior to the testing appointment.
31+ business days prior to the testing appointment.
**Saturdays and Sundays are NOT business days
Fee
$100
$ 60
$ 25
Examination Schedule
The following table provides the NBDE Part II administration schedule. For an outline of the
examination see the Exam Specifications.
National Board Dental Examination Part II

Day 1
Optional Tutorial
15 minutes
Discipline-based, multiple choice exam items (200 items)
3.5 hours
Optional Scheduled Break
1 hour (maximum)
Discipline-based, multiple choice exam items (200 items)
3.5 hours
Day 2
Optional Tutorial
15 minutes
17
NBDE Part II Guide
Patient Case Problems (100 case-based items)

Optional Post-examination Survey
3.5 hours
15 minutes
Total Time
12 hours 15 minutes
The optional break after the first 200 items is the only scheduled break. If you take a
break at any other time, it will be considered an unscheduled break. Please carefully
review the rules related to unscheduled breaks.
Obtain a DENTPIN and Apply for Examination
What is a DENTPIN?
How to Apply for an

Examination
As part of the application process, you must provide your Dental

Personal Identification Number (DENTPIN). The DENTPIN
(DENTal Personal Identification Number) is a unique personal
identifier for individuals involved with the U.S. dental education
system and its standardized testing programs. The DAT, ADEA
AADSAS and TMDSAS, plus ADEA PASS, ADEA CAAPID, the
National Board Dental Examination program, and National Board
Dental Hygiene Examination program all use the DENTPIN for
identification, and for the confidential, secure reporting,
transmission and tracking of examination results and academic
data. You should obtain or retrieve your DENTPIN before
proceeding with your application.
You may submit an application here. If you meet the eligibility
requirements for examination your application will be processed.
This processing takes place daily during normal business hours.
The JCNDE will forward your eligibility information to Prometric
once your application has been approved, and you will receive an
email with testing appointment scheduling instructions.
To allow adequate time for Prometric to receive your
eligibility file, please wait 24 hours after receipt of this e-mail
before attempting to schedule a testing appointment.
Once your application is processed you are eligible to test for a
six (6) month period. If you do not schedule a testing
appointment, and/or take the NBDE Part II during this period, you
will have to submit a new application and fee.
The eligibility period will not be extended and you will forfeit
your examination fee.
Application Details
All information you provide on the application must be accurate.

To avoid complications in qualifying for licensure, you must use
the name on your government issued ID.
18
NBDE Part II Guide

THE NAME ON YOUR APPLICATION AND IDs MUST MATCH

EXACTLY*.
Application Details
(Continued)
*When including a middle name, either the full name or

initial is acceptable.
If the name on your NBDE Part II application and your IDs do
not match exactly, you will be denied admission to testing.
As a result, you will forfeit your testing appointment and
application fee. You will be required to submit a new
application.
Changes and corrections to your application (name, birth date,
etc.) must be completed at least two weeks prior to your testing
appointment. You are responsible for identifying any corrections
and must notify the JCNDE at dentpin@ada.org .
If you have an address change, go to the DENTPIN page and
click the Update Your DENTPIN in the left navigation. Once you
log in, you may make your changes there. Your information will
be updated in your DENTPIN the same day.
If you have a name change, use the DENTPIN Form (PDF) to
submit the request for a name correction (must be received at
least five business days prior to your examination appointment)
by email to dentpin@ada.org with your DENTPIN. Please also
attach any appropriate documentation such as a marriage
certificate or court documents.
During the application and examination process, you will be
required to identify yourself. This includes your name,
DENTPIN, address, year of birth, etc. This information must be
provided accurately.
Privacy and Security
If it is determined that you deliberately falsified your name,

DENTPIN, or personal data in the DENTPIN system,
examination application, or at the test center, your results
will be voided, and your dental school will be notified. You
may have to wait two years before retesting, or you may be
banned from taking the NBDE.
The Joint Commission will maintain the privacy and security of
candidate personal information using industry standard methods.
The Joint Commission will collect and retain personal information
to the extent necessary to serve candidate needs, administer the
National Board examinations, fulfill National Board examination
program responsibilities (e.g., to maintain the integrity of the test
and detect and prevent unlawful activity), and fulfill legal
19
NBDE Part II Guide

Privacy and Security
requirements. National Board examination results shall be

retained indefinitely, along with testing records and necessary
personal information.
(Continued)
National Board examination results will be released and/or

reported to state dental boards, education programs, or other
entities upon written candidate authorization or designation by
electronic means through the electronic application or score
report request form. Examination results may be released and/or
reported in the absence of such authorization when Joint
Commission policies indicate that such notification is appropriate
(e.g., notification of state dental boards concerning an
irregularity). Examination results will be released to dental
education programs to enable those programs to understand
student outcomes. For research and policy making purposes,
examination results may be releasedwith personally identifying
information removedto legitimately interested parties. The Joint
Commission shall make information on its privacy policies
available to all candidates and the public.
The ADA provides technical support for the NBDE program and
uses data security procedures to protect the integrity of personal
and exam information at all times. Security safeguards include
administrative, technical, and physical safeguards over data and
data processing systems. For information on policies relating to
your use of the ADA.org Web site, please refer to the Privacy
Policy available at www.ADA.org.
By registering for the examination, you consent to the collection,
processing, use and transmission of your personal information for
purposes related to the NBDE program as outlined in this Guide.
After your application has been approved, you will receive an
email with testing appointment scheduling instructions.
Schedule a
Testing Appointment
To allow adequate time for Prometric to receive your

eligibility information, please wait 24 hours after receipt of
your eligibility email before attempting to schedule a testing
appointment.
You may call the Prometric Contact Center at 800.688.5804 or
visit Prometric to schedule a testing appointment.
You must schedule your NBDE Part II sessions on two
consecutive days and at the same test center or your results
cannot be scored. Partial credit will not be awarded. If you do
not test on consecutive days and at the same test center, you will
be required to retest at your own expense.
20
NBDE Part II Guide

If you wish to reschedule or cancel your testing appointment you

must contact Prometric in advance of the testing appointment
and pay a fee directly to Prometric. Additional fees apply (see
the Examination Fees section of this Guide).
Reschedule or
Cancel a Testing
Appointment:
Emergencies, Testing
Problems, and No Show
Policy
Appointments can be rescheduled by calling 800.688.5804 or by

visiting Prometric. The local test center cannot schedule,
reschedule, or cancel your appointment.
No Show Policy
If you do not appear for your scheduled testing appointment
and you do not cancel or reschedule your appointment in
advance of the test date you will forfeit all examination fees.
You will be required to submit a new application and pay the fee
to schedule a new appointment.
Emergencies on the Day of the Testing Appointment
If an emergency occurs on the day of the testing appointment
that prevents you from appearing for the appointment, you may
submit a written request for relief to the JCNDE. This request
should include applicable documentation and be sent to
testingproblems@ada.org within five business days of the
appointment.
Examples of emergencies and applicable documentation include,
but are not limited to, the following:
Sudden illness on the exam day: doctors note or

hospital records confirming that you were treated
on the day of the exam.
Death in the family on the exam day: copy of

obituary, prayer card or program from funeral
service, or death certificate confirming that the
relative passed away on the day of the examination.
Testing appointments affected by emergencies occurring prior to

the day of the actual testing appointment should be handled
through the rescheduling and cancellation process indicated
above.
Testing Problems on the Day of the Testing Appointment
If you experience problems with testing conditions during
administration of the exam, you must notify the Test Center
Administrator immediately and stop testing.
21
NBDE Part II Guide
Testing should not be resumed until the issue has been

documented and resolved by the Test Center Administrator.
Unresolved concerns must be submitted in writing within five
business days of the testing appointment. Submit these
concerns to testingproblems@ada.org.
Reschedule or
Cancel a Testing
Appointment:
Emergencies, Testing
Upon receipt of the information we will conduct an investigation
Problems, and No Show and notify you of the outcome. Candidates with documented,
Policy
unresolved testing issues may be offered the opportunity to retest
(Continued)
within 30 days.
Scores cannot be voided or adjusted under any
circumstances.
Testing
Accommodations
The JCNDE provides reasonable and appropriate

accommodations in accordance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act for individuals with documented disabilities who
demonstrate a need for accommodation and request an
accommodation prior to testing.
The Americans with Disabilities Act defines a person with a
disability as an individual with a physical or mental impairment
that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
English as a second language, test anxiety, slow reading without
an identified underlying physical or mental deficit, or failure to
achieve a desired outcome are not generally covered by the
Americans with Disabilities Act.
Testing accommodations are offered to those with a qualified
disability in order to offer equal access to testing. Candidates
must request testing accommodations with each application, but
will not be required to submit additional documentation for the
same disability/condition with subsequent reexaminations.
In considering a request from a candidate with a disability, the
Joint Commission is guided by a focus on validity. Testing
accommodations are approved to give the candidate an
opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills so that
measurement through testing can accurately reflect those
knowledge and skills, as opposed to having measurement
inappropriately reflect the disability.
Request for Testing

Accommodations and
Appropriate
Documentation
The following information will assist the candidate in submitting

the appropriate documentation to support the testing
accommodation request. The documentation will assist the
JCNDE in determining whether the individual qualifies for
accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or as
the result of a medical condition.
22
NBDE Part II Guide

The JCNDE requires a complete evaluation of the candidate as

well as the completed and signed Testing Accommodation
Request Form available under Apply to Take the NBDE. A
health care professional appropriately qualified for evaluating the
disability must conduct the evaluation.
Request for Testing

Accommodations and
Appropriate
Documentation
(Continued)
Testing Accommodations will not be shared outside of the

JCNDE and Test Center, and will not be indicated or exam
results reported to state boards or additional recipients.
If you have a documented disability recognized under the
Americans with Disabilities Act and require testing
accommodations, you must:
1. While submitting your NBDE Part II application select
Yes from the dropdown on the application requesting
testing accommodations. You must submit an application
for the examination, the testing accommodation request
form, and the supporting documentation prior to testing.
The process is not complete until you have submitted all
three components.
You can schedule a testing appointment after your
testing accommodation request has been approved.
Testing accommodations cannot be added to a
previously scheduled testing appointment. If you
schedule your testing appointment before the
approval of testing accommodations you will be
required to cancel the appointment and pay a
reschedule fee. You must receive your eligibility
email (with approved accommodations) before you
can schedule a testing appointment.
2. Submit the following documents (as a single attachment)
at testingaccommodations@ada.org:
a. Testing Accommodation Request Form (available at
www.ada.org), signed and dated, indicating the
disability or medical condition, and the request for
accommodations. Accommodations should align with
the identified functional limitation so that the
adjustment to the testing procedure is applicable to the
identified impairment. A functional limitation is defined
as the behavioral manifestation of the disability that
impedes the individuals ability to function.
23
NBDE Part II Guide
b. Current evaluation report (within the past five years)

from the appropriate health care professional. The
document (must be on official letterhead) should
include the professionals credentials, signature,
address, and telephone number. The report must
indicate the candidates name, date of birth, and date
of evaluation. The report should include:
Request for Testing

Accommodations and
Appropriate
Documentation
(Continued)
The specific diagnostic procedures or tests

administered. Diagnostic methods used should be
appropriate to the disability and in alignment with
current professional protocol. The results of the
diagnostic procedures and/or tests and a
comprehensive interpretation of the results.
The specific diagnosis of the disability or medical
condition, with an accompanying description of the
candidates limitations due to the disability.
A summary of the complete evaluation with
recommendations for the specific
accommodations and how they will reduce the
impact of the identified functional limitation.
c. Documentation of any previous accommodations
provided by educational institutions or other testing
agencies. If no prior accommodations were provided,
the licensed professional should include a detailed
explanation as to why no accommodations were given
in the past and why accommodations are needed now.
Please do not submit the following documents; they are not
acceptable.
Unacceptable Forms of
Documentation
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Handwritten letters from health care professionals.

Handwritten patient records or notes from patient charts.
Diagnoses on prescription pads.
Self-evaluations.
Research articles.
Original documents; submit copies only.
Previous JCNDE correspondence.
Correspondence from educational institutions or testing
agencies not directly addressed to the JCNDE.
EXAMINATION RULES AND REGULATIONS
Rules of Conduct
The JCNDE has established rules that govern the administration

of the National Board Examinations to ensure that examination
results accurately reflect examinee skills and that no candidate
24
NBDE Part II Guide

receives unfair advantage on the examination.

Examination Regulations are intended to preserve the integrity of
the examination process by providing standard exam
administration conditions that yield valid and reliable results.
Rules of Conduct
(Continued)
Accessing examination content prior to testing, breaching the

confidentiality of examination content, or any attempt to subvert
the examination process violates the purpose and principles of
the examination. Conduct occurring before, during or after
testing that violates these principles or Examination Rules and
Regulations may result in invalidation of examination results
and/or other penalties.
You must be truthful in completing the application and must abide
by all instructions regarding examination conduct.
Failure to comply with the rules and regulations may result
in a determination of an irregularity and your examination
results may be voided. If your results are voided as a result
of an irregularity, you may be prohibited from testing for up
to two years or you may face civil or criminal prosecution.
By applying for a National Board Examination, you agree to abide
by the following Rules of Conduct:
1. You certify that you are the person who has registered for
the examination for the purpose of gaining National Board
certification. You may not take the examination for
someone else, someone else may not take the
examination for you nor may you take the exam for any
reason other than for the purpose of gaining admission to
a dental or health profession education program or for
state licensure. You may not take the examination to
practice or to obtain an advance review of the content.
2. In situations where available information suggests that a
previously eligible candidate may be completing an
examination for purposes other than National Board
certification, at the discretion of the Joint Commission the
previous eligibility may be revoked and the candidate may
be required to reestablish their eligibility to take the
examination.
3. You will not give, receive, or obtain any form of
unauthorized assistance prior to the examination during
the examination (e.g., in the testing room or when on a
break), or subsequent to the examination.
25
NBDE Part II Guide

Rules of Conduct
(Continued)
4. You will maintain the confidentiality of the examination.

You will not reproduce or attempt to reproduce
examination materials through memorization, recording,
or other means. You will not provide information relating
to current examination content that might impact the
examinations ability to accurately reflect candidate skills,
or that might provide unfair advantage to other
candidates. For example, you will neither make use of
nor participate in the electronic posting or other
distribution of information regarding examination content
or answers.
5. You will not bring any unauthorized materials to the test
center or into the secure testing area (see the
Examination Regulations and Prohibited Conduct section
of this Guide).
6. You will not remove materials in any form (written/printed,
recorded, or other) from the test center.
7. You will comply with test center policies and procedures.
You will not create a disturbance in the test center.
8. You will not tamper with the computer testing equipment
and facilities.
9. You will cooperate fully with any investigations of irregular
behavior. You agree to have your exam analyzed to
detect aberrancies.
10. Joint Commission examination content represents
intellectual property that is protected by copyright. As
such, violators may be subject to copyright infringement
penalties in addition to the aforementioned penalties.
You may not disclose in whole or in part any examination
questions or answers to anyone before, during or after the
examination, whether orally, in writing, on Internet chat
rooms or blogs, or otherwise.
Similarly, candidates cannot participate in the distribution of such
information. Candidates who received such information should
destroy the information immediately without reviewing it.
Candidates who have been found to be in possession of such
informationor to have participated in the distribution of this
informationmay have their examination results voided.
Penalties may be imposed subsequent to discovery and
26
NBDE Part II Guide

investigation of the original incident, which may occur years after

the incident itself.
Rules of Conduct
(Continued)
The NBDE Part II is a secure examination that is protected by

U.S. copyright laws. Any unauthorized disclosure of the
examinations contents could result in civil liability, criminal
penalties, voiding of examination results or other appropriate
penalty.
You are encouraged to report activities that disclose information
about examination questions, so that the JCNDE may investigate
and take any necessary action. Report such activity to the
JCNDE at nbexams@ada.org.
Report to the test center at least 30 minutes prior to your
scheduled appointment time. If you report late, you may not be
allowed to take the examination, depending on the time of arrival
and schedule of testing appointments. Prometric Test Center
administrators will determine whether there is sufficient time and
space to administer the examination.
Test Center Procedures
If you arrive late and cannot be seated, you will forfeit your
examination fee and must submit a new application and fee.
In cases of inclement weather, natural disaster or other local
conditions that may cause unavoidable interruptions to testing,
Prometric will make reasonable efforts to notify you and
reschedule your testing appointment.
You are expected to understand and comply with the Prometric
test center regulations. You can review test center information at
Prometric.
1. When you arrive at the Prometric Test Center to
take the examination, two original, current (not
expired) forms of identification (ID), one primary
and one secondary, will be required.
The primary ID must be a government issued ID
with your photograph and a signature. A
government ID missing either a photograph or
signature is unacceptable. Examples of
acceptable primary IDs are a driver's license or a
passport/passport card.
The secondary ID must contain your signature.
Examples of secondary IDs are a debit card,
library card, credit card, etc.
27
NBDE Part II Guide


(Continued)
The name on your IDs must match exactly with

the name you entered on your NBDE Part II
application. If the names on your IDs and
your NBDE Part II application do not match
exactly, you will be denied admission to
testing and you will forfeit your scheduled
testing appointment and application fee. You
will be required to submit a new application.
If including a middle name, either the full name or
initial is acceptable.
If you have a name change, use the DENTPIN
Form to submit the request for a name correction
(must be received at least five business days prior
to your examination appointment) by email to
dentpin@ada.org with your DENTPIN. If you
have any questions concerning types of
acceptable identification, please call the
JCNDE at 800.232.1694.
2. The Prometric test center will electronically capture the
identity of each candidate including a fingerprint and a
photograph, before proceeding with testing. Electronic
capture of this biometric data allows for easier and
quicker return to the testing after breaks. Biometric and
other identity data will be retained for identity verification
at potential future administrations. Additionally, the test
center will use a detection wand to scan for electronic
devices as part of the check-in procedures. You may view
the Prometric check-in procedure here.
3. You will have an opportunity to become familiar with the
operation of the examination by taking a brief tutorial
before beginning the actual examination.
4. You will be observed at all times while testing. This
observation will include test center staff walking through
the secure testing lab, as well as video recording of your
testing session. Test center staff are required to report
behavior that may violate the rules and regulations.
5. Test center staff are not authorized to answer questions
from you regarding examination content, examination
software, or scoring.
28
NBDE Part II Guide

(Continued)
Examination
Regulations
and Prohibited
Conduct
6. The test administrator is responsible for the operation of

the facility, maintaining order, and administering the
examinations according to established procedures. The
test center administrator is authorized to dismiss you from
a testing session for violating the rules or regulations.
7. If you experience problems with testing conditions, you
should notify the test administrator immediately: do not
proceed with testing unless the problem is resolved.
Unresolved concerns should be submitted to
testingproblems@ada.org within five business days of
your testing appointment.
Examination regulations are in place to ensure that results can
be interpreted with confidence as an accurate reflection of
examinee skills. This is particularly important given the role of the
examinations in helping to protect the health of the public.
Violations of examination regulations undermine the ability of the
examination to accurately assess candidate skills and fulfill the
purpose of the examination. As such, the Joint Commission
treats violations extremely seriously.
You must comply with the examination rules, regulations, and
procedures. These preserve the integrity of the examination
process and provide standard examination conditions that ensure
that no examinee receives an unfair advantage on the
examination.
It is your personal responsibility to understand and comply
with the examination regulations indicated in this Guide.
Test administrators at test center facilities work with a large
number of testing programs covering many fields and
occupations. Each of those programs has adopted its own
examination regulations and corresponding rules of conduct. If
you are unsure of what would be considered appropriate and
inappropriate (i.e., prohibited) conduct during test administration,
seek clarification directly from the Joint Commission in advance
of testing. The Joint Commission bears no responsibility for
inaccurate information or permissions received from test
center administrators. If candidate conduct violates the
terms set forth in this Guide, the Joint Commission will act
to strictly enforce its policies and procedures as indicated
within this Guide.
1. No personal items are permitted in the secure testing
area. Any personal belonging brought to the test center
must be stored in the designated locker. Upon suspicion,
29
NBDE Part II Guide

your personal belongings may be inspected. Notes or

any materials accessed during testing or an unscheduled
break may be confiscated.
Examination
Regulations
and Prohibited
Conduct
(Continued)
Accessing personal belongings or your locker during

an unscheduled break violates Examination
Regulations. Test administrators are not authorized
to provide you with permission to access personal
belongings or your locker during an unscheduled
break.
2. Items that are prohibited from the secure testing area
include, but are not limited to the following:
a. Books, notes, study materials, scratch paper,
tissues, personal ear plugs, or markers not
provided by the testing center
b. Dental instruments, models or materials
c. Slide rules, paper, calculating devices, rulers or
other measuring devices
d. Electronic devices, such as cell phones, recording
devices, iPods, tablets, and headsets/headphones
e. Tote bag, purses, wallets, backpacks, briefcases
f. Highlighters, pens, erasers, pencils, dictionaries,
and translators.
g. Food, candy, gum, water or other beverages
h. Outerwear, such as coats, jackets, gloves, or head
coverings (except for religious purposes)
i. Good luck charms, statues, religious or spiritual
items, or superstitious talismans
j. Medicinal items (except those items approved in
advance under testing accommodations)
k. Watches (digital or analog) or timing devices (a
timer is provided on the computer screen during
testing)
l. Magnifying devices.
3. The test center will provide two note boards and two lowodor fine tip markers to use during the examination. Used
note boards will be replaced by test center staff upon
request. Scratch paper, pencils, or markers not furnished
by the testing center are not permitted. The note board
cannot be folded, bent, or mutilated in any manner. You
may not use the markers on any surface other than the
note board. You may not touch the monitor during
testing. All items must be returned to the test
administrator before leaving the Test Center.
30
NBDE Part II Guide
4. You should not engage in conversation with others during

testing or while on an unscheduled break. You are strictly
prohibited from discussing the examination.
Examination
Regulations
and Prohibited
Conduct
(Continued)
5. Test center administrators will report the activity of

candidates who take unscheduled breaks.
During an unscheduled break, you may NOT access
personal belongings or prohibited items, study or
refer to notes or texts, use a telephone, eat food or
beverages, or leave the test center. Test
administrators are not authorized to provide you with
permission to engage in these activities.
6. Although the examination is administered under strict
supervision and security, examination irregularities may
sometimes occur. Examination results may be voided
based upon a breach of examination security, invalid
examination conditions, or examinee violations of
Examination Regulations or Test Center Procedures or
Rules of Conduct.
If cheating is detected during the examination, or
evidence of irregular behavior is disclosed when the
examination is scored, or afterwards, those involved will
have their examination scores voided.
7. As noted above, if you think you may require any
medicinal items during the testing session (e.g., aspirin,
ibuprofen) you must receive permission from the Joint
Commission in advance of the testing session. This
permission is obtained through adherence to the Joint
Commissions testing accommodation procedures.
Failure to comply with the regulations and rules may result

in a determination of an irregularity and your examination
results may be withheld, cancelled, and/or considered
invalid, or another appropriate penalty may be imposed.
You may also be directed to leave the test center before you
have completed the examination. If your results are
withheld or invalidated, or you are otherwise penalized as
the result of an irregularity, you may be prohibited from
testing for up to two years.
31
NBDE Part II Guide
EXAMINATION IRREGULARITIES AND MISCONDUCT

The JCNDE strives to report results that accurately reflect the cognitive skill and performance of
each examinee. The standards and procedures for administering each examination are
intended to give each candidate a comparable opportunity to demonstrate his/her abilities, and
to prevent a candidate from gaining an unfair advantage over others.
The JCNDE reserves the right to withhold, void, or invalidate any result when, in the JCNDEs
judgment, it is reasonable to question the validity of your result or the result of any examinee to
whom you have provided assistance. Reasons for withholding, voiding or invalidation of results
or the imposition of other appropriate penalties results may include, but is not limited to, the
following:
Unusual answer patterns

Atypical score increases from one examination attempt to another
Discrepancy in, or falsification of, an examinees identification
Information indicating that a examinee has engaged in misconduct or
violation of the rules and regulations
Sharing of remembered exam questions or answers
Falsification of application information or supporting documents
Falsification of the candidates result report
Any other information indicating the results may not be valid
Inconsistent performance on different sections of the exam from one
examination attempt to another
Improper access to secure exam content
An exam administration irregularity
When the JCNDE voids or invalidates exam results, it notifies the examinee in writing. The
notice includes information about the decision and the procedure for appeal. Results will remain
voided until an appeal process has been completed, or the time for appeal has expired.
When the JCNDE voids a result that has already been reported, result report recipients will be
notified that the results has been voided.
If it is determined that you engaged in irregular behavior, information regarding this
determination becomes a part of your JCNDE record. At its sole discretion, the JCNDE may
elect to send a summary report documenting the incident to legitimately interested parties.
This would include all parties to whom you have instructed results be sent (both current and
future).
In situations where an irregularity has occurred, individuals who are involved or implicated with
respect to the occurrence of the irregularity, or who are reasonably believed to have witnessed
the irregularity, may be asked to provide information concerning the irregularity.
The JCNDE reserves the right to pursue other remedies, including prosecution of anyone whose
conduct unlawfully undermines the security of the NBDE or the integrity of the examination
process.
32
NBDE Part II Guide
An irregularity is defined as a situation in which there may be a

question about the validity of examination results in accurately
reflecting the ability and skills of an examinee.
For example, such questions may be raised when:
Irregularities and
Appeals
There is communication between examinees during

the testing session.
Unauthorized assistance occurs.
Examinees have inappropriate access to current
exam content (e.g. remembered exam questions or
answers are shared by email or online posting)
Conduct expressly prohibited by Examination Rules
and Regulations or test administration disruptions
(including natural disasters and other emergencies)
When an irregularity is identified, results for the examinee(s)
involved will be voided pending resolution of the corresponding
appeal(s). If an appeal is denied or no appeal is filed, the results
of the examinee(s) involved will be voided or other appropriate
remedies imposed.
Examinees whose scores are subject to being voided are notified
by written correspondence and provided with a copy of the
Limited Right of Appeal for Examination Candidates. An appeal
must be submitted in writing and must include adequate
supporting documentation. The appeal should also indicate the
specific relief requested. Appeals must be submitted within 30
days after notification of the irregularity.
The examinee will be notified of the JCNDEs decision
approximately 60 days after receipt of the appeal.
When considering an appeal the JCNDE strives to ensure that
examination results accurately reflect candidate skills, and that
the appealing candidate has an opportunity to gain National
Board certification equal to, but not greater than, the opportunity
provided to other candidates.
The JCNDE will void results when there is a reasonable and
good faith basis to do so. If the JCNDE determines that voiding
results is not warranted under the circumstances, the results will
be released.
33
NBDE Part II Guide

Examinees should be aware that the JCNDE considers

irregularities other than natural disasters and emergencies
beyond the control of the examinee to be a serious breach of the
testing process.
Irregularities and
Appeals
(Continued)
The JCNDE handles irregularities in a confidential manner and

does not voluntarily share details regarding irregularities.
However, candidates should be aware that reports of
irregularities may have consequences beyond the voiding of
results or the imposition of other appropriate penalties, if
information regarding the irregularities is brought to the attention
of school authorities or regulatory agencies, or other entities by
other sources.
Arbitration
Requirement
Examinees are encouraged to report suspicious activity or

observations of violations of examination regulations to the
JCNDE at nbexams@ada.org.
Arbitration has become an increasingly common way to resolve
legal differences. Generally speaking, the advantages of
arbitration over traditional lawsuits are that arbitration is less
expensive and issues are resolved in less time. If an examinee
wishes to pursue a dispute that has not been resolved by the
appeal process mentioned above and detailed in the Limited
Right of Appeal for Examination Candidates, the examinee must
use the procedure described in the following Agreement to
Arbitrate.
34
NBDE Part II Guide
AGREEMENT TO ARBITRATE
1) In the event that any legal dispute arises between you and the Joint Commission on National
Dental Examinations of the American Dental Association in connection with your participation in
the National Board Dental Examination Part II, where that dispute is not resolved by the appeals
process detailed in the Guide and elsewhere, you agree that the exclusive means for resolving the
dispute shall be Binding Arbitration as described by the terms of this Agreement. This means that
you waive the rights you may have to resolve the dispute in a court of law, or by any other means
that might otherwise be available to you.
2) The American Dental Association ("ADA") agrees to be similarly bound except that the ADA
reserves its full rights to pursue injunctive and other appropriate relief in any state or federal
court in cases of unfair competition or violations of, or threats to violate, any intellectual property
rights of the ADA. With respect to any action filed by the ADA pursuant to this paragraph 2, you
consent to submit to the jurisdiction of the state or federal court in which the ADA seeks relief.
3) Arbitration proceedings initiated pursuant to this Agreement to Arbitrate shall be conducted in
accordance with the then current rules of the American Arbitration Association. The Arbitration
and any proceedings relating to it shall be held in Chicago, Illinois. The arbitrator's award shall be
binding and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. Information
about the American Arbitration Association, its rules, and its forms are available from the
American Arbitration Association, 335 Madison Avenue, Floor 10, New York, New York, 100174605.
4) In the event of Arbitration, the parties shall bear their own costs and attorneys' fees associated
with the Arbitration proceedings, unless the arbitrator directs one of the parties to pay the other's
costs, or attorneys' fees, or both.
5) To the fullest extent permitted by law, no Arbitration brought pursuant to this Agreement shall
be joined to any Arbitration involving any other party whether through "Class Arbitration"
proceedings or otherwise.
6) This Agreement is part of the Application to take the National Board Dental Examination Part II.
Your assent to be bound by it is a requirement for taking the examination, but you can only sit for
the examination if you also fulfill all other conditions imposed by the Joint Commission on
National Dental Examinations.
35
NBDE Part II Guide

Guide Nbde

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Guide Nbde

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Guide Nbde

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

National Board Dental

Read this Guide before submitting an application to test.

NBDE Part I I Guide 2015 Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations

211 East Chicago Avenue

About this Guide

This document is the official guide to policies for the National

Licensure of dentists in the United States is the responsibility of

NBDE Part II Guide

Commission includes representatives of dental schools, dental

Clinical examinations may be conducted by state boards of

The purpose of the NBDE Part I and NBDE Part II examinations

Ethical Conduct and the

Ethical Conduct and the

includes a commitment to honesty, truthfulness, full disclosure,

The NBDE Part II is a comprehensive examination and consists

depends upon the nature of the case itself.

In responding to case-based items, the

Interpret the findings and

ENDODONTICS * [31 items]

OPERATIVE DENTISTRY [44 items]

Individual Tooth Pathology

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY/PAIN CONTROL [47 items]

ORAL DIAGNOSIS [45 items]

ORTHODONTICS/PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY [52 items]

PATIENT MANAGEMENT [51 items]

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

A multiple-choice examination item consists of

Sample Item Formats

Completion: Completion-type items require the correct

Paired True-False: The only portion of a paired true-false

The area of the tooth that is the most sensitive to cavity

In health, bone is constantly undergoing resorption and

In periodontitis, only bone resorption occurs.

Question: Question-type items communicate a problem or set

Cause and Effect: The only portion of a cause-and-effect test

Which of the following has the potential for undergoing

A traumatic injury can cause the pulp space to calcify, because

A. Both the statement and the reason are correct and

Negative: A negative item is characterized by a word such as

The JCNDE recommends that you use textbooks and lecture

The scheduling and registration process

Visit Prometrics Test Drive for further details and pricing.

Current exam items comprise confidential examination

A candidates total score is computed by the total number of

By signing the application, a candidate enrolled in an accredited

As a routine part of the overall validation process, the responses

Dental Student Accredited

Former Dental Student

A student in a dental education program accredited by

A dental student attending a non-accredited dental school

A former dental student who has completed courses in

NBDE Part II Guide

Former Dental Student

the same dental school is eligible for examination only if

The following provisions are required for the verification of

NBDE Part II Guide

Candidates who have not passed may apply for reexamination.

computer at a test center, and electronically agreed to the

A minimum of 90 days must separate a candidates