ADEX Dental Hygiene

The ADEX Dental Hygiene Examination is based on specific performance criteria used to measure clinical competence. There are two skill-specific clinical and simulated clinical examinations:

The Simulated Patient Treatment Clinical Examination (SPTCE) and Patient Treatment Clinical Examination (PTCE) – evaluate candidates on their clinical and judgment skills. Clinical skills include detection and removal of calculus, accurate periodontal pocket depth measurements, and tissue management.

The Computer Simulated Clinical Examination (CSCE) OSCE – is designed to assess various levels of diagnosis and treatment planning knowledge, skills, and abilities. Clinically-based questions are utilized through computer-enhanced photographs, radiographs, optical images of study and working models, laboratory data, and other clinical digitized reproductions.

Only students or graduates of schools accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada may take the ADEX Dental Hygiene Examination. All other candidates (including international graduates) must apply through the state dental board in the state or jurisdiction where they wish to practice for permission to take an examination for licensure only in that state or jurisdiction.