Each candidate for examination must download a Dental Format and Candidate Guide after registration. The manual contains a complete description of the examination, examination schedule, and an application with instructions. Applications are completed online (see
Apply for details). All forms needed for the examination will be available to the candidate with their online registration once they have applied for examination. Candidates will receive a candidate badge used for identification along with any additional required material after successful application.
The examination in dentistry consists of six separate sections: Endodontics, Class III Composite, Class II Amalgam, Fixed Prosthodontics and computer simulated examinations in Periodontics and Prosthodontics. Two sections, Composite and Amalgam are comprised of the Preparation and Restoration procedures. Each section is judged by specific criteria and scored on a "Pass/Fail" basis. Successful completion of a
section is contingent on passing 75% or more of the specified criteria in any and all procedures within that section. Successful completion of the
examination requires passing all six sections. The clinical examination is given in an open format. Candidates may perform the clinical procedures as they wish, providing the guidelines for each procedure as outlined in the Dental Format and Candidate Guide are followed.
The technical procedures, as well as the specific materials used in the restorative Dentistry examinations shall be the candidate's own choice. Satisfactory patient treatment is the criterion for acceptance or rejection of any method, procedure or material used. The Southern Regional Testing Agency examines candidates with varying education backgrounds. Because universities teach different preparations, SRTA does not look for one type of standard preparation.
The examiners at all sites are experienced practitioners with diverse backgrounds and represent each of the SRTA participating states. The examiners are trained and standardized prior to each examination and are evaluated to assure grading to established criteria. The examiners are separated from the candidates and will remain in the "Scoring Area" of the clinic. the candidates must observe all signs and follow instructions so as to not breach anonymity. Anonymity is preserved between the scoring examiners and the candidates, but not among the examiners themselves. Examiners may consult with one another whenever necessary. There are times when fairness requires consultation between examiners.
Each candidate must furnish all patients, required endodontic teeth and fixed prosthodontic typodont, necessary materials and instruments including high and slow speed handpieces. Patients must be at least 14 years of age. A parent or guardian must be available in the waiting area during treatment and provide written consent for minors under the age of 18.
On day one of the examination, candidates taking the complete examination are required to register prior to orientation and are expected to attend the orientation session/presentation when specific instructions for the exam will be given. An opportunity for questions and answers will be provided after the presentation is completed. Only candidates registered for the examination are permitted to attend the orientation session. Please direct your assistant and/or patients either to the clinical or waiting area.
Candidates failing to attend the orientation session will not be given separate instructions (Post Operative Care Agreements(s) must be submitted at registration).
