FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions From Candidates

Q: Which exams am I required to take?
A: Contact the state board or state designated licensing agency from which you are seeking licensure to determine which exams are required.

Q: I am interested in a refresher course. Which schools should I contact?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA does not provide course or program information. Visit the ADA.org or ADHA.org websites for a list of accredited dental hygiene schools in your area. It is your responsibility to verify that the course meets the requirements for licensure in your state.

Q: I want to attempt the exam held at ABC College, but the website shows unavailable. What does that mean?
A: It could mean that: 1) the Student Hold is in effect for that exam; or 2) the exam has sold out in advance of the Application Deadline.

Q: What is the Student Hold?
A: For each exam site, CDCA-WREB-CITA holds in reserve a finite number of spaces for graduating students of the exam site host school’s current year dental hygiene program. Those students have until 11:59pm Arizona Time of the specified date to apply. If they fail to apply by that time, those seats previously held in reserve will become available to the general public on a first-come, first-served basis. Availability, if any, will be reflected almost immediately on the website.

Q: I want to attempt the exam at the XYZ location during May 1-5. Do I need to be onsite during the entire date range? How will I know on which day the exam is scheduled?
A: Depending upon the exam type, you may need to be onsite for several days within the date range. Enrolled candidates are provided with their individual examination schedules approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the Clinical exam.

Exam schedules are considered tentative until after the Application Deadline for a given exam has passed. Candidates are discouraged from making travel arrangements until after receiving their clinical examination schedule.

Q: Can I apply online for a CDCA-WREB-CITA exam now but pay later?
A: No, you must pay the exam fees at the time of registration. Online applicants must use a credit card. CDCA-WREB-CITA accepts Visa, Master Card or Discover only. Multiple credit cards cannot be used.

Q: Should I wait for my dean or program director to sign the Course Certification Form before I apply for an exam?
A: You may apply for an exam now and send in proof of qualification later. However, your proof of qualification must be received by the Document Deadline, which is no less than three weeks prior to the first scheduled day of the exam, or you will be cancelled from the exam and no refund given.

Q: What if I need special testing accommodations for the exam I am about to attempt due to a diagnosed disability?
A: Special testing accommodations are available under certain circumstances. CDCA-WREB-CITA will provide reasonable accommodations, auxiliary aids, or services, provided the requested accommodations would not fundamentally alter the measurement of the skills or knowledge the exam is intended to test. Requests must be received 45 days prior to the first day of the Didactic or Clinical exam. Note that special testing accommodation is generally limited to computerized exams.

Q: Can I request to test on a certain day?
A: Scheduling requests may be submitted during the online application process or via Contact Us prior to the exam’s Application Deadline for consideration. Please understand that while we make every effort to accommodate Candidate scheduling requests, we cannot guarantee accommodation due to a number of extenuating factors (e.g. volume of accommodation requests, number of days per exam type, operatory availability, etc.). Refer to the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: Can I change my assigned clinical examination time for the Anesthesia/Restorative exam?
A: No, schedules are arranged in the best interest of all Candidates taking into consideration the number of exam participants, space availability, and number of days per exam type. Schedules are made to give Candidates the optimum open block time and to maintain flow in the grading area and CANNOT be changed.

Q: When will I receive my exam results?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA performs a thorough check and confirmation of exam results prior to release. Provisional, or preliminary, results are provided onsite for Local Anesthesia, Hygiene and Restorative Clinical exams. However, after in-office processing, Candidates are notified via e-mail when their official results have been posted to their online Candidate Profile.

Q: What are the eligibility requirements and registration options of the onsite Clinical retake exam? What are the payment options?
A: Eligible candidates may pay the onsite retake fee of their Clinical examination with a credit or debit card displaying the Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express logo. CDCA-WREB-CITA also accepts cashier’s checks or money orders for onsite retakes as well. Refer to the respective Candidate Manual for eligibility requirements and procedure information.

Q: If I fail the Didactic or Clinical exam, how soon will I be able to re-test? Is there a waiting period?
A: Candidates who have multiple unsuccessful attempts of an exam should refer to the respective Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: I need to schedule my jurisprudence exam. What do I need to do?
A: Individual state boards administer the jurisprudence exam, not CDCA-WREB-CITA. Contact the state board from which you are seeking licensure for details.

Q: The State in which I am seeking licensure requires a copy of my scores, how do I obtain that information?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA reports examination results to each of our Member State Boards. However, if a State Board requires additional information regarding your exam results, visit the Score Request page for descriptions of the various reports available.

Q: How do I apply for the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam?
A: Apply for the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam via ADEXtesting.org. The computer-based portion of the Local Anesthesia exam is administered at a Prometric Test Center location. The didactic exam must be successfully completed (passing score of 75 or above) no less than 15 days prior to an attempt of the Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam. However, Didactic exam results are valid for up to twelve months prior to an attempt of the Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam.

Q: I applied for the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam on the CDCA-WREB-CITA Website, but when I contacted Prometric to schedule my exam they said that I wasn’t eligible. Why?
A: An Eligibility Number is required to schedule your Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam which is not available until after your Written Exam application has been processed by CDCA-WREB-CITA Staff and posted to your online Candidate Profile. Once received, it is strongly recommended that you contact Prometric as soon as possible to schedule your Local Anesthesia Written Exam; however, it may take up to 24 hours for Prometric to receive the information. Be advised that you MUST successfully attempt (pass) the Written Exam no less that 15 prior to the Local Anesthesia Clinical exam or risk forfeiture of your Clinical exam attempt and registration fees. See the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: I lost my driver’s license. Will I need show ID at the Prometric Test Center?
A: Yes, candidates are required to present valid, non-expired government-issued photo identification (ID) prior to admittance into any Prometric Test Center. For Prometric Test Center identification requirements, please visit www.prometric.com.

Q: Is there a study guide available for the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam?
A: To further ensure your success of the Didactic exam, utilize the textbooks and MRD charts referenced during exam construction listed in the  Candidate Manual.  CDCA-WREB-CITA does not condone nor endorse the use of any online study aids or fee-based applications or services.

Q: How many questions are on the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam?
A: The exam consists of approximately 55-60 discipline and case-based multiple choice items, up to five (5) of which are field test questions not calculated in your final score. You have the option of marking items i.e. questions to review and answer prior to ending the exam.

Q: I ran out of time and did not answer all the questions remaining. Will I automatically fail the exam?
A: Not necessarily. An attempt can result in success despite not having answered all of the questions. However, a score of 75 or higher is required for successful completion of the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam.

Q: What should I do if I experience technical difficulties while attempting the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam at a Prometric Testing Center?
A: Prometric is responsible for the technical administration of the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam. If you experience technical difficulties, contact the designated Prometric Administrator or Floor Technician right away. However, you should also send an email to Contact Us detailing your experience.

Q: When will I receive my results for the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam?
A: Exam results are generally posted within 24 hours of exam completion with the exception of weekends and holidays. Once posted, candidates will receive an e-mail containing instructions on how to access their exam results from their online Candidate Profile. The Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam is graded independently of the Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam. However, successful completion of the Written Exam is required prior to attempting the Clinical Exam.

Q: I failed the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam can I still attempt my scheduled Clinical Exam?
A: Per CDCA-WREB-CITA Policy, candidates must successfully complete (passing score of 75 or above) the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam before attempting the Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam or risk forfeiture of their Clinical exam attempt and registration fees. You might be able to re-test the Didactic exam depending on the testing timeframe for the Clinical exam in which you are enrolled.  See the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: How do I apply for a Local Anesthesia Clinical exam?
A: You may apply for any available Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam location at WREB.org. Clinical scheduling requests may be submitted during registration or via Contact Us by no later than the Application Deadline for a given exam.

Q: I lost my driver’s license. Will I need show ID at the Clinical exam?
A: Yes, candidates are required to present two (2) valid, non-expired photo identification (ID) prior to admittance into any CDCA-WREB-CITA exam.

Q: I am using another Candidate as a patient for the Local Anesthesia Exam, does WREB need to know this information?
A: Yes, you should advise the CDCA-WREB-CITA office so that we may attempt to schedule you and your fellow Candidate an hour or more apart to accommodate both injections—yours and theirs.

Scheduling requests may be submitted during the online application process or via Contact Us prior to the exam’s Application Deadline for consideration. Please understand that while we make every effort to accommodate Candidate scheduling requests, we cannot guarantee accommodation due to a number of extenuating factors (e.g. volume of accommodation requests, number of days per exam type, operatory availability, etc.). Refer to the Candidate Guide for more information.

Q: Am I required to wear a specific color of scrubs or shoes during the Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA does not impose restrictions on the color or style, however, professional clinic attire or scrubs, close-toed shoes, and socks covering any exposed skin below the pant cuff are required for all Clinical examinations. As noted in the Infection Control Guidelines section of the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: Am I allowed to wear nail polish during the Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA does not impose restrictions on the wearing of nail polish by candidates during clinical procedures. However, you are required to adhere to school policies and procedures regarding infection control as well as CDC guidelines. If not specifically addressed in Site Info Sheet for the corresponding exam site host (school), then you are encouraged to follow your school’s protocols regarding the matter.

Q: When should I tell my patient to arrive?
A: This is up to you and the patient. But you should arrive at least thirty (30) minutes or more ahead of your scheduled clinical examination time.

Q: When can I take my patient’s blood pressure?
A: Blood pressure should be taken within an hour of your assigned clinical examination time. It greatly aids exam flow if you take the BP before entering the clinic to expedite exam flow.

Q: What sterilization procedures should be followed?
A: Refer to the site-specific Site Info Sheet for infection control policy and sterilization procedure information. Infection control is also reviewed during the Clinic Tour prior to the onsite Candidate Q&A Session.

Q: What if my patient has only one maxillary second molar?
A: Maxillary right and left second molars and at least one mandibular premolar must be present in the submitted quadrant. In the event that a landmark tooth is missing, the patient will be rejected, which constitutes failure of the exam.

Q: Is an implant acceptable as one of the required landmark teeth?
A: For examination purposes, implants are not considered natural teeth and do not count as a natural tooth for the required landmark teeth.

Q: Is it acceptable to administer a few drops of anesthetic (initially for patient comfort) prior to reaching the deposition site?
A: If you have been taught this method, use your own clinical judgment as to the amount of anesthetic that is administered. It is not recommended that anesthetic be deposited as the needle is advanced toward the deposition site. It is a critical error if too much anesthetic is deposited prior to reaching the target site. Refer to the Critical Aspects of Injection section of the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: I think that my glove touched the needle prior to injection, what should I do?
A: Needle contamination is considered a critical error if not handled appropriately before proceeding to the injection. Since all aspects of the injection are evaluated, you are encouraged to use your best clinical judgment in the event that your needle touches any extraoral surface–glove or gauze–prior to the injection. Refer to the Critical Aspects of Injection section of the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: What should I do if bone is contacted prematurely?
A: You may reposition the needle if you contact bone prematurely. However, once the optimum depth and angle are achieved and announced, the injection is evaluated, and the needle cannot be repositioned. Refer to the Critical Aspects of Injection section of the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: What is an attempt?
A: An attempt is when the needle penetrates the tissue. Up to three penetration attempts are allowed (per injection) to obtain the optimum angle and depth.

Q: Will I fail the exam if I get a positive aspiration?
A: There is no penalty for positive aspiration if recognized and handled appropriately. Acknowledge the aspiration and respond properly. In the event of a second positive aspiration at the same injection site, you will be asked to withdraw the needle and the injection will be graded as performed. Refer to of the Candidate Manual for the proper procedure for handling positive aspirations.

Q: Can I dismiss the patient after I finish my injections?
A: Examiners will instruct you when to dispose of used sharps and anesthetic cartridges prior to dismissing the patient.

Q: What do I do with unused anesthetic and cartridges?
A: Refer to the site-specific Site Info Sheet for site-specific information provided by the host school; also addressed during the onsite Clinic Tour.

Q: If I pass the Local Anesthesia Didactic Exam, but fail the Clinical Examination, will I have to retake both exams?
A: Didactic results are valid for up to twelve (12) months prior to attempting or re-attempting the Clinical exam. If a candidate does not apply for and successfully re-attempt (passing score of 75 or above) within twelve (12) months of their initial Clinical Exam attempt, both the Didactic and Clinical exams MUST be retested. In those states where a local anesthesia clinical exam is required for licensure, overall successful completion of the Local Anesthesia Examination requires passing scores in both the Written Exam and the Clinical Exam. See Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: I failed one injection and passed the other but wasn’t able to complete an on-site retake. I’ve registered for another clinical exam at a different location. Can I just test the injection that I previously failed or will I have to complete both injections?
A: No, if testing at another exam site, you will have to complete both injections.

Q: When will I receive my exam results?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA performs a thorough check and confirmation of exam results prior to release. Provisional, or preliminary, results are provided onsite for Local Anesthesia Clinical and Restorative Clinical exams. However, after in-office processing, Candidates are notified via e-mail when their official results have been posted to their online Candidate Profile.

Q: How do I apply for a DH Restorative Clinical exam?
A: You may apply for any available DH Restorative Clinical Exam location at WREB.org. Clinical scheduling requests may be submitted during registration or via Contact Us by no later than the Application Deadline for a given exam.

Q: Should I wait for my dean or program director to sign the Course Certification Form before I apply for an exam?
A: You may apply for an exam now and send in proof of qualification later. However, your proof of qualification must be received by the Document Deadline, which is no less than three weeks prior to the first scheduled day of the exam, or you will be cancelled from the exam and no refund given.

Q: Am I required to wear a specific color of scrubs or shoes during the Local Anesthesia Clinical Exam?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA does not impose restrictions on the color or style, however, professional clinic attire or scrubs, close-toed shoes, and socks covering any exposed skin below the pant cuff are required for all Clinical examinations. Refer to the Candidate Manual for more information.

Q: Am I allowed to wear nail polish during the DH Restorative Clinical Exam?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA does not impose restrictions on the wearing of nail polish by candidates during clinical procedures. However, you are required to adhere to school policies and procedures regarding infection control as well as CDC guidelines. If not specifically addressed in Site Info Sheet for the corresponding exam site host (school), then you are encouraged to follow your school’s protocols regarding the matter.

Q: Can I bring my own triturator or amalgamator?
A: Yes, it may make you feel more comfortable during the exam using a familiar triturator or amalgamator. Also, refer to the site-specific Site Info Sheet  for a site-specific list of equipment and materials provided by the host school.

Q: In an effort to save money, I’m buying a typodont used by a fellow student during their clinical examination. Can I use the same typodont for my clinical examination?
A: CDCA-WREB-CTIA does not have any restrictions regarding previously used typodonts. However, you are encouraged to carefully check the gingiva for lacerations or tears, and the teeth for scarring. Be sure to replace any damaged gingiva or teeth prior to the examination to avoid incurring any trauma penalties at Check-Out grading. See Typodont Criteria in the Candidate Manual.

Q: Our clinic is currently using a bonding adhesive/primer so that the instruments do not stick to the composite material. Is it acceptable to use a bond/primer adhesive when placing composites?
A: Bonding adhesive/primer may be used for placement of the composite material during the Restorative Exam but must not cover the surface of the finished restoration.

Q: What can I do to improve my chances for success of the Restorative exam?
A: Know the dental anatomy; practice your restorations on a typodont. Read and re-read the Candidate Manual as accurate interpretation of the prescribed criteria is your responsibility.

Q: When will I receive my exam results?
A: CDCA-WREB-CITA performs a thorough check and confirmation of exam results prior to release. Provisional, or preliminary, results are provided onsite for Local Anesthesia Clinical and Restorative Clinical exams. However, after in-office processing, Candidates are notified via e-mail when their official results have been posted to their online Candidate Profile.