Dental Assisting National Board Test

For dental assistants wanting to display their skills and professionalism, a certification is a good path to take. The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) offers three tests: Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Certified Preventive Dental Assistant (CPDA), and Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA). These tests are recognized in 38 states. They may be required in some states and optional in others. Even if a certification is optional, investing in the time and money to study for and obtain it is beneficial in terms of self-confidence and future career goals and earnings.

• The DANB test is offered on an ongoing basis year-round. It is computer-based and available at testing centers throughout the country. There are no application deadlines. The CDA DANB test consists of three components: infection control, radiation health and safety, and general chairside assisting. All three components must be passed within five years to become certified. The radiation health and safety and infection control components can be taken at the same time. The entire test has 320 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in four hours.
• The CPDA DANB test consists of four components: sealants, coronal polish, topical fluoride, and topical anesthetic. These are taken at the same time. The entire test has 250 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 3 ½ hours. The COA DANB test consists of two components: orthodontic assisting and infection control, both of which are taken at the same time. The test has 210 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 2 ¾ hours. To receive certification, all DANB tests require completion of an accredited dental program and/or the appropriate license, as well as current CPR certification.

To apply for the DANB test, the candidate must completely fill out the application and submit the appropriate fee. All three exams cost $375. To take each component separately costs $100-$175 each. The application can be mailed or faxed. Once the candidate submits the application and fees to DANB, it takes three to four weeks for processing. If the application is accepted, the candidate is sent a Test Admission Notice. She is then given 60 days to schedule and take the DANB test. This can be done online or by telephone.

On the day of the DANB test, the candidate must bring her Test Admission Notice and one form of valid ID with a photograph and signature. No personal belongings or notes will be allowed in the testing area. A pen and noteboard will be provided. There are no scheduled breaks during the DANB test, but breaks can be taken as needed. However, you will not be able to make-up any time that you miss during a break. After the DANB test is complete, the candidate can immediately view her results, a scaled score ranging from 100 to 900 with 400 being the minimum score needed to pass each exam. It may take up to four weeks for the candidate to receive her official score report in the mail. After passing the test, a candidate will receive her certification which must be renewed each year.