DANB Exam & DANB Certification Info
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is a nationally recognized certification agency for dental assistants in the United States. It offers several certifications and exams that help improve the quality of dental care and enhance career opportunities for dental assistants.
Step 1: Eligibility and Application
To be eligible for DANB certification, you must meet certain educational and/or work experience requirements. These vary depending on the specific certification you're seeking. Once you meet the criteria, you can apply for the certification exam. All applications can be completed and submitted online through the DANB's website. It is also possible to download, print and mail your application, but online applications are processed faster.
Step 2: Scheduling the Exam
After your application has been approved, DANB will send you an email with a Test Admission Notice. This notice will include instructions on how to schedule your exam. Exams can be scheduled at Pearson VUE test centers, which are located all over the United States. You can schedule your exam online or by phone.
Step 3: Taking the Exam
On the day of your exam, you need to arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time. You need to bring your Test Admission Notice and a valid, government-issued photo ID. The exams are computer-based, and the time allowed varies depending on the specific exam. After you finish the exam, you will receive a preliminary score report immediately.
For more detailed information and to start the application process, you can visit the DANB's website at www.danb.org.
What is DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)?
DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exams
The DANB's Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification test is a nationally recognized accreditation exam for dental assistants in the USA. Administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), it comprises three components: General Chairside Assisting (GC), Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), and Infection Control (ICE). The test assesses candidates' comprehension of essential dental assisting skills and knowledge, ensuring they meet the highest standards of patient care and safety. Passing this test demonstrates professional competency and can enhance employment prospects and potential earnings.
Collection and recording of clinical data - 10%
Chairside dental procedures - 45%
Chairside dental materials (preparation, manipulation, application) - 11%
Lab materials and procedures - 4%
Patient education and oral health management - 10%
Prevention and management of emergencies - 14%
Office management procedures - 6%
RHS (100 Questions)
Expose and evaluate (intraoral, extraoral) - 37%
Process - 16%
Mount/label - 11%
Radiation safety-patient - 24%
Radiation safety-operator - 12%
ICE (100 Questions)
Patient and dental healthcare worker education - 10%
Prevent cross-contamination and disease transmission - 20%
Maintain aseptic conditions - 10%
Perform sterilization procedures - 15%
Environmental asepsis - 15%
Occupational safety - 30%
The DANB's General Chairside Assisting (GC) certification test is a comprehensive examination for aspiring dental assistants. It measures proficiency in areas such as patient care, dental procedures, and office operations. Topics include infection control, chairside assisting, dental anatomy, and preventive dentistry. Passing this test demonstrates a high level of professional competency and is often a requirement for employment in many dental offices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that require both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of general chairside assisting.
Chairside dental procedures - 45%
Chairside dental materials (preparation, manipulation, application) - 11%
Lab materials and procedures - 4%
Patient education and oral health management - 10%
Prevention and management of emergencies - 14%
Office management procedures - 6%
The DANB's Infection Control Exam is a professional certification test for dental assistants. It evaluates the candidate's knowledge and understanding of maintaining a safe, sterile environment in dental settings. The test covers crucial areas such as preventing disease transmission, compliance with OSHA and CDC guidelines, preparation and delivery of dental care, and post-operative procedures. Passing this exam, along with two other component exams, leads to a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification. The test is computer-based, multiple-choice, and consists of 100 items to be completed in 75 minutes.
Prevent cross-contamination and disease transmission - 20%
Maintain aseptic conditions - 10%
Perform sterilization procedures - 15%
Environmental asepsis - 15%
Occupational safety - 30%
The Dental Assisting National Board's (DANB) National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) certification test evaluates foundational knowledge and skills required for an entry-level dental assistant. It comprises of three components: Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), Infection Control (ICE), and General Chairside Assisting (GC). The test covers key areas like patient care, dental procedures, radiation safety, infection control, and administrative functions. Successful completion signifies the candidate's dedication to quality patient care and their professional competency, providing a competitive edge in the dental assisting job market. The certification is recognized nationwide, enhancing career mobility.
Expose and evaluate (intraoral, extraoral) - 37%
Process - 16%
Mount/label - 11%
Radiation safety-patient - 24%
Radiation safety-operator - 12%
ICE
Patient and dental healthcare worker education - 10%
Prevent cross-contamination and disease transmission - 20%
Maintain aseptic conditions - 10%
Perform sterilization procedures - 15%
Environmental asepsis - 15%
Occupational safety - 30%
AMP
Head and neck - 15%
Oral cavity - 25%
Tooth anatomy, morphology, and related characteristics - 20%
Tooth numbering systems - 15%
Occlusion - 15%
Oral pathology - 10%
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) provides the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) certification test. This examination is designed to assess a dental assistant's proficiency in radiation safety principles and procedures. Topics covered include patient protection, operator protection, radiation physics, and quality assurance, among others. Passing the RHS test, along with two other DANB exams, can lead to becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). The test involves intensive preparation and is crucial to ensuring safe and effective dental radiographic procedures.
Process - 16%
Mount/label - 11%
Radiation safety-patient - 24%
Radiation safety-operator - 12%
What is DANB Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA)?
DANB Certified Orthodontic Assistant (COA) Exams
The DANB's Certified Orthodontic Assisting (COA) certification test is a professional exam that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in orthodontic assisting. It is administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), a nationally recognized certification organization. The test covers various areas including patient management, laboratory procedures, orthodontic treatment, and infection control. Passing the COA exam demonstrates a high level of competency, professionalism, and commitment to quality patient care. This certification is often a requirement for employment in the field of orthodontic assisting.
Patient and dental healthcare worker education - 10%
Prevent cross-contamination and disease transmission - 20%
Maintain aseptic conditions - 10%
Perform sterilization procedures - 15%
Environmental asepsis - 15%
Occupational safety - 30%
OA - Orthodontic Assisting
Collection And Recording Of Clinical Data - 15%
Orthodontic Procedures - 36%
Chairside Dental Materials - 37%
Laboratory Materials And Procedures - 5%
Oral Health Management Prevention And Management Of Emergencies - 5%
Office Operations - 5%
Radiation Health And Safety - 5%
What is DANB Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA)?
DANB Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) Exams
The DANB's Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) certification test is a comprehensive examination for dental assistants to validate their skills in preventive dentistry functions. The test consists of four component exams: Coronal Polishing (CP), Topical Fluoride (TF), Topical Anesthetic (TA), and Sealants (SE). It assesses candidates' knowledge and abilities in areas like patient assessment, application of sealants or fluoride, and administration of anesthetic. Successful completion of the CPFDA test demonstrates a dental assistant's professional competence and adherence to industry standards.
Dental And Oral Anatomy - 8%
Oral Prophylaxis - 7%
Objective Of Coronal Polish - 7%
Dental Deposits - 15%
Polishing Precautions - 15%
Patient Education And Recordkeeping - 10%
Abrasives And Polishing Agents - 8%
Polishing Technique - 20%
Infection Control/OSHA Protocol - 10%
Sealants
Purpose Of Sealants - 10%
Indications And Contraindications For Sealant Application - 40%
Acid Etching - 10%
Sealants - 40%
Topical Anesthetic
Patient Preparation - 10%
Classifications - 20%
Precautions And Contraindications - 20%
Indications For Use - 30%
Placement Of The Topical Anesthetic (including Infection Control/OSHA Protocol - 20%
Topical Fluoride
Basic Information About Fluoride - 10%
Indications And Contraindications For Topical Fluoride - 30%
Benefits Of Topical Fluoride - 15%
Topical Fluoride Application - 15%
Fluoride Preparations - 10%
Adverse Reactions - 10%
Patient Education - 10%
The Dental Assisting National Board's (DANB) Coronal Polish certification test evaluates a candidate's proficiency in coronal polishing procedures, ensuring they possess necessary skills to effectively remove plaque and stains on teeth. This certification is often required for dental professionals specializing in preventive oral care. The test covers various aspects including tooth morphology, plaque and calculus, coronal polishing contraindications, and equipment handling. Successful completion signifies the candidate's commitment to maintaining high standards of dental care, making them more competitive in the dental assisting field.
Oral Prophylaxis - 7%
Objective Of Coronal Polish - 7%
Dental Deposits - 15%
Polishing Precautions - 15%
Patient Education And Recordkeeping - 10%
Abrasives And Polishing Agents - 8%
Polishing Technique - 20%
Infection Control/OSHA Protocol - 10%
The DANB's Sealants Exam is a certification test for dental professionals, specifically Dental Assistants. It assesses proficiency in applying dental sealants, a preventative treatment used to protect teeth from decay. The exam covers various aspects, including patient assessment, sealant application techniques, and understanding of dental anatomy. It ensures that the Dental Assistant is competent and well-versed in the application process and can efficiently assist in oral healthcare. Passing the exam signifies the individual's commitment to professional development and adherence to the highest standards of patient care in dental practice.
Indications And Contraindications For Sealant Application - 40%
Acid Etching - 10%
Sealants - 40%
The DANB's Topical Anesthetic certification test is a comprehensive examination designed for dental professionals. It evaluates the candidate's knowledge and skills in applying topical anesthetics, ensuring a clear understanding of its usage, effects, and safety procedures. The test covers various topics including pharmacology, medical emergencies, and patient management. Passing this certification demonstrates the candidate's proficiency in administering topical anesthetics, enhancing their credibility as a dental professional. It's an important step for individuals aiming to deliver the highest level of patient care in dental practices.
Classifications - 20%
Precautions And Contraindications - 20%
Indications For Use - 30%
Placement Of The Topical Anesthetic (including Infection Control/OSHA Protocol - 20%
The DANB's Topical Fluoride certification test is a professional examination for dental assistants to demonstrate their proficiency in applying topical fluoride treatments. It evaluates their knowledge and skills in patient preparation, application techniques, safety protocols, and post-treatment care. Passing this test signifies a dental assistant's competence in performing fluoride treatments, adhering to the highest standards of dental care. The certification is recognized across the United States, enhancing employability and professional credibility. It's part of the DANB's commitment to promoting excellence and continuous learning in dental healthcare services.
Indications And Contraindications For Topical Fluoride - 30%
Benefits Of Topical Fluoride - 15%
Topical Fluoride Application - 15%
Fluoride Preparations - 10%
Adverse Reactions - 10%
Patient Education - 10%
What is DANB Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA)?
DANB Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) Exams
The Dental Assisting National Board's (DANB) Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology certification test is an examination that evaluates a candidate's knowledge and understanding of the human body's structure, function, and development, with a particular emphasis on oral anatomy. This includes areas such as tooth morphology, oral tissues, and the circulatory, nervous, and muscular systems. This rigorous test ensures dental assistants have the necessary knowledge to provide quality care. The certification is often required by employers, enhancing job prospects and potential earning capacity.
Oral cavity - 25%
Tooth anatomy, morphology, and related characteristics - 20%
Tooth numbering systems - 15%
Occlusion - 15%
Oral pathology - 10%
The DANB's Certified Restorative Functions Dental Assistant (CRFDA) certification is a comprehensive exam for dental assistants that covers advanced skills. It evaluates the ability to perform restorative procedures, such as filling cavities, under the supervision of a dentist. The test includes five component exams: Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology (AMP), Impressions (IM), Temporaries (TMP), Isolation (IS), and Sealants (SE). Passing all five components within a three-year period is required to earn the CRFDA certification. This certification is recognized as a mark of excellence and professionalism in the dental field.
Head and neck - 15%
Oral cavity - 25%
Tooth anatomy, morphology, and related characteristics - 20%
Tooth numbering systems - 15%
Occlusion - 15%
Oral pathology - 10%
IM
Purpose of impressions - 15%
Taking impressions - 55%
Patient management techniques - 10%
Bite/occlusal registrations - 10%
Infection Control/OSHA protocol - 10%
TMP
Temporary/provisional Restorations - 65%
Temporary Cement - 20%
Infection Control/occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) Protocol - 15%
SE
Purpose Of Sealants - 10%
Indications And Contraindications For Sealant Application - 40%
Acid Etching - 10%
Sealants - 40%
RF
Cavity Liners And Bases - 7%
Cavity Classifications - 7%
Amalgam Restorations - 20%
Composite, Glass Ionomer And Compomer Restorations - 30%
Stainless Steel Crowns - 12%
Procedural Considerations - 15%
Infection Control/occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) Protocol - 9%
The DANB's Impressions certification test is a comprehensive examination for dental assistant professionals. It evaluates the candidate's knowledge and competence in taking dental impressions, a crucial part of dental procedures. The test covers a variety of areas, including infection control, dental anatomy, and impression materials and techniques. This certification test is designed to ensure that dental assistants are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care in a dental setting. Passing this test is a testament to the dental assistant's professional proficiency in performing dental impressions.
Taking impressions - 55%
Patient management techniques - 10%
Bite/occlusal registrations - 10%
Infection Control/OSHA protocol - 10%
The DANB's Isolation certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to assess dental assistants' knowledge and skills in isolation techniques. These techniques are vital in preventing cross-contamination during dental procedures. The test covers a wide range of topics, including types of isolation, procedures, equipment, and safety protocols. Passing this exam demonstrates a dental assistant's competence in ensuring a sterile and safe environment for both patients and dental professionals. The DANB's Isolation certification is recognized and respected within the dental community.
Types Of Attributes/uses Of Various Isolation Systems/armamentaria
Placement And Removal Procedures
Special Health Considerations
Infection Control/occupationalsafety And Health Administration (OSHA) Protocol
The DANB's Restorative Functions certification test is a specialized examination for dental assistants. It assesses their competence in providing restorative dental care under the supervision of a licensed dentist. The test covers a broad range of topics, including application of dental materials, preparation and restoration of teeth, and adherence to safety protocols. Passing this exam demonstrates the candidate's proficiency in performing restorative functions, enhancing their professional credibility and career prospects. This certification is recognized across the United States, setting a high standard in the dental assisting profession.
Cavity Classifications
Amalgam Restorations
Composite, Glass Ionomer And Compomer Restorations
Stainless Steel Crowns
Procedural Considerations
Infection Control/occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) Protocol
The DANB's Temporaries (TMP) certification test is a professional examination designed for dental assistants. It tests their skills and knowledge in constructing and applying temporary crowns and restorations. The TMP certification is part of the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering various aspects of dental anatomy, materials, preparation, and application techniques. Achieving this certification demonstrates the dental assistant's proficiency in creating and applying temporary dental solutions, enhancing their professional credibility and employability in the dental field.
Temporary Cement - 20%
Infection Control/occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) Protocol - 15%
What is DANB Orthodontic Assisting ?
DANB Orthodontic Assisting Exams
The DANB's Orthodontic Assisting certification test is an esteemed professional examination for aspiring orthodontic assistants. It evaluates understanding of basic orthodontic procedures, patient management, and orthodontic laboratory procedures. It ensures candidates are knowledgeable about infection control, prevention, and legal obligations within dental settings. Passing the test signifies a high level of proficiency and commitment to the field, enhancing career prospects. Preparation involves extensive studying and practical experience. This certification is recognized by employers nationwide, reflecting a certified assistant’s competence and skill in providing high-quality orthodontic care.
Orthodontic Procedures - 36%
Chairside Dental Materials - 5%
Laboratory Materials And Procedures - 5%
Oral Health Management Prevention And Management Of Emergencies - 5%
Office Operations - 5%
Radiation Health And Safety - 19%
What is DANB State Exams?
DANB State Exams Exams
The DANB NJ Expanded Duties General Exam is a certification test for dental assistants, recognized by the state of New Jersey. It evaluates proficiency in expanded functions like radiography, infection control, orthodontic procedures, and more. Passing the exam demonstrates a candidate's ability to perform such duties safely and effectively under a dentist's supervision. The test includes a theoretical component and may require practical assessment. The certification enhances a dental assistant's credibility and can open up more job opportunities within the field.
The DANB's Coronal Polish Exam for Arizona Residents is a certification test that assesses a dental assistant's ability to perform coronal polishing, a key procedure in dental hygiene. It evaluates theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to the removal of plaque and stains from the coronal surface of teeth. Passing this exam certifies that the dental assistant has the necessary skills and expertise to carry out this procedure in Arizona, in compliance with the state’s dental practice act. This certification enhances the assistant's professional credibility and employment opportunities.
Distinguish between oral prophylaxis and coronal polish - 7%
Objective of coronal polish - 7%
Dental deposits - 15%
Polishing precautions - 15%
Patient education and recordkeeping - 10%
Abrasives and polishing agents - 8%
Polishing technique - 20%
Infection control/OSHA protocol - 10%
The DANB's Maryland General Dental Assisting certification test is a comprehensive examination that validates a candidate's knowledge and skills in dental assisting. It covers various topics like infection control, patient management, dental procedures and office administration. Successful completion of the test certifies the candidate as a competent and qualified dental assistant in the state of Maryland. This certification is nationally recognized and can significantly enhance a dental assistant's career prospects. The test requires thorough preparation and understanding of both practical and theoretical aspects of dental assisting.
The DANB's Maryland Orthodontic Assisting Expanded Functions certification test is a comprehensive exam designed to verify the proficiency of orthodontic assistants in Maryland in performing expanded functions. The test covers a wide range of topics, including orthodontic procedures, patient management, infection control, and dental law. It seeks to ensure that orthodontic assistants have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective patient care. Passing this test is a requirement for orthodontic assistants in Maryland to perform certain advanced tasks under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
The DANB's Missouri Test of Basic Dental Assisting Skills is a credentialing examination for dental assistants. It covers a broad range of topics including dental anatomy, infection control, preventive dentistry, radiography, dental materials, and patient management. Candidates are evaluated on their theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This certification test is recognized in the state of Missouri, enhancing the professional credibility of dental assistants and ensuring they meet the necessary standards to provide quality dental care. Successful completion of this test signifies a dental assistant's competency and commitment to their profession.
Dental Materials - 10%
Medical Emergencies - 10%
Charts/Legal/Jurisprudence - 10%
Radiation Health and Safety - 10%
Infection Control - 30%
Tooth Morphology - 20%
The Dental Assisting National Board's (DANB) New York Infection Control certification test is a critical examination for dental professionals. It assesses the candidate's knowledge and competency in implementing infection control protocols in dental settings. The test covers areas such as sterilization procedures, aseptic techniques, and proper disposal of biohazardous waste. Successful completion of this exam demonstrates the candidate's commitment to maintaining a safe, hygienic dental environment for both staff and patients. It is a critical component of the professional development of any dental assistant aiming to work in New York.
Prevent cross-contamination and disease transmission - 20%
Maintain aseptic conditions - 10%
Perform sterilization procedures - 15%
Environmental asepsis - 15%
Occupational safety - 30%
The DANB's New York Professional Dental Assisting certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to assess a candidate's competencies in dental assisting. It consists of several sections, each focusing on critical areas such as radiology, infection control, chairside assistance, patient management, and dental law. The test evaluates both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Successful completion of this test by a dental assistant demonstrates their proficiency and adherence to the highest standards of dental care, earning them recognition as a certified professional in New York. It is essential for those seeking to advance their careers in dental assisting.
Chairside dental procedures - 45%
Chairside dental materials (preparation, manipulation, application) - 9%
Lab materials and procedures - 4%
Patient education and oral health management - 10%
Prevention and management of emergencies - 12%
Offi ce operations - 10%
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) offers a New York Radiology certification test, which is a critical competency exam for dental professionals. This test evaluates an individual's knowledge and skills in dental radiography procedures and safety measures, specifically as per New York State's regulations. It is designed for dental assistants to prove their proficiency in handling and processing radiographic equipment, understanding radiation health and safety, and applying radiographic techniques. Passing this exam signifies the individual's readiness to deliver high-quality dental radiographic services and adhere to the state's safety standards.
Quality assurance and radiology regulations - 21%
Radiation safety for patients and operators - 31%
Infection control - 22%
The DANB's Oregon Basic Dental Assisting certification test is a comprehensive evaluation designed to assess the competency of potential dental assistants in Oregon. The exam covers various aspects of dental assisting, including infection control, patient management, dental procedures, and dental materials. It is highly regarded in the dental industry and passing this test is a significant accomplishment that can increase an individual's employability and earning potential. Furthermore, it ensures that certified individuals are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality dental care.
Collection of clinical data - 10- 15 %
Management of emergencies - 20 - 25 %
Occupational safety - 10- 15 %
Legal issues - 10- 15 %
Anatomy - 10- 15 %
General procedures - 5-10 %
The DANB's Oregon Expanded Functions - Orthodontic Assisting certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to assess an individual's knowledge and skills in orthodontic assisting. The test covers a variety of topics including patient care, orthodontic procedures, infection control, and dental law. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Passing this test verifies the candidate's ability to provide high-quality orthodontic care in compliance with Oregon state regulations, making them a valuable asset to any dental team.
and curing orthodontic brackets, attachmentsand/or retainers - 25 - 30%
Removing orthodontic bands, brackets and attachments with the removal of bonding material
Removal of separators - 5 - 10%
Selecting, placing and removing of archwires and ligature ties - 10 - 15%
Fitting and adjusting headgear - 5 - 10%
Removing fi xed orthodontic appliances - 5 - 10%
Taking impressions for study models or tempo-rary oral devices (e.g., space maintainers, orthodontic
retainers and occlusal guards) - 15 - 20 %
What is EFDA - Expanded Function Dental Assistant ?
EFDA - Expanded Function Dental Assistant Exams
The DANB Expanded Functions General Dental Assisting certification test is a professional examination designed to assess the competency of dental assistants in providing advanced dental care. This test includes areas such as radiology, chairside assisting, infection control, and patient management. The certification is recognized nationwide and is often required for dental assistants seeking to perform expanded functions in their roles. Achieving this certification demonstrates a professional's commitment to maintaining high standards of patient care and their proficiency in advanced dental assisting procedures.
What is HYLA?
HYLA Exams
The Local Anesthesia Examination for Dental Hygienists is a certification test that assesses the candidate's knowledge and skills in administering local anesthesia safely and effectively. It covers various topics including pharmacology of local anesthetics, anatomy, techniques of maxillary and mandibular anesthesia, complications, and medical emergencies. This exam is typically a requirement for dental hygienists who wish to administer local anesthesia in their practice. It's crucial in ensuring they are well-equipped to provide high-quality patient care by relieving pain and discomfort during dental procedures.
What is Licensed Dental Radiologic Technologist (LDRT)?
Licensed Dental Radiologic Technologist (LDRT) Exams
The DANB's Licensed Dental Radiologic Technologist certification test evaluates knowledge and proficiency in dental radiology. It covers topics such as radiation safety, image acquisition and evaluation, infection control, and patient management. The exam is designed to ensure that candidates meet professional standards and are competent to perform their role safely and effectively. Upon successful completion, candidates receive certification, demonstrating their expertise in dental radiology. This nationally recognized certification can enhance career prospects and professional credibility within the dental industry.
What is MJDF Membership of the Joint Dental Faculty?
MJDF Membership of the Joint Dental Faculty Exams
The Joint Dental Faculty - Part 1 certification test is an examination administered by the Royal College of Surgeons of England and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. This test is designed for dental practitioners who wish to progress their professional development. The exam assesses knowledge and understanding of basic clinical science related to dentistry. It comprises of two papers covering topics such as dental anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and microbiology. Successful candidates are awarded a Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties (MJDF) qualification, recognized internationally as a mark of excellence in dentistry.