CPE Candidate Handbook

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board I Table of Contents INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 3 APPLICATION PROCESS .......................................................................................... 4 Eligibility ............................................................................................................................................ 4 Graduates of Registered Dental Assisting Programs .................................................................................. 4 Graduates of Non-Registered Programs................................................................................................... 4 How to Apply ................................................................................................................................... 4 Formal Education in Lieu of the CPE................................................................................................... 5 Special Accommodations ................................................................................................................... 5 Evaluation Date and Confirmation ...................................................................................................... 6 Fees .................................................................................................................................................. 6 CPE Withdrawal ................................................................................................................................ 7 Process ................................................................................................................................................. 7 Withdrawal Fees .................................................................................................................................... 7 PREPARING FOR THE CLINICAL PRACTICE EVALUATION ............................... 8 Important Information ....................................................................................................................... 8 Frequently Asked Questions .............................................................................................................. 8 CPE ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................................... 10 CPE Evaluators ................................................................................................................................ 10 Interaction Between Candidates and Evaluators ................................................................................ 10 Code of Conduct ............................................................................................................................ 10 CPE SKILLS AND OUTCOMES ................................................................................ 11 Skills ............................................................................................................................................... 11 Required Outcomes/Results ............................................................................................................. 11 Skill Evaluation ................................................................................................................................. 12 Process ............................................................................................................................................... 12 Evaluation Form: Procedure .................................................................................................................. 13 Evaluation Form: Professional Practice ................................................................................................... 14 CPE RESULTS ............................................................................................................. 16 Timing ............................................................................................................................................ 16 Reporting to Regulatory Authorities ................................................................................................. 16 Unsuccessful CPE Evaluation ............................................................................................................ 16 Appeals ........................................................................................................................................... 17 Appeals Process ................................................................................................................................... 17 NDAEB CERTIFICATE RELEASE................................................................................... 18

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board II REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 19 Provincial Licensure/Listing/Certification/Registration ........................................................................ 19 Returning to Practice ....................................................................................................................... 19 COPYRIGHT & DISCLAIMER ................................................................................... 19 APPENDIX A – EVALUATION FORMS ................................................................... 20 Skill 1 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Skill 2 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Skill 3 .............................................................................................................................................. 23 Skill 4 .............................................................................................................................................. 25 Skill 5 .............................................................................................................................................. 28 Skill 6 .............................................................................................................................................. 30 Skill 7 .............................................................................................................................................. 31 Skill 8 .............................................................................................................................................. 34 Skill 9 .............................................................................................................................................. 35 APPENDIX B: PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE AND SAFETY ........................................ 38 Professional Attire ........................................................................................................................... 38 Uniform.............................................................................................................................................. 38 Jewelry and Hair................................................................................................................................ 38 Safety ............................................................................................................................................... 38 Safety Glasses (clear glass only): ..................................................................................................... 38 Gloves ............................................................................................................................................... 38 Masks ................................................................................................................................................ 38 Personal Instruments and Supplies – Not Permitted ......................................................................... 38 Host Clinic Safety .............................................................................................................................. 38 APPENDIX C: DENTAL MATERIALS PROVIDED .................................................. 39 APPENDIX D: NDAEB CODE OF CONDUCT ........................................................ 39 APPENDIX E: REFERENCES ..................................................................................... 41

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 3 Introduction The National Dental Assisting Examining Board has developed and maintains the Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE) to aid Canadian Dental Assisting Regulatory Authorities (CDARAs) in the licensure/listing/ certification/registration of dental assistants in Canada. The purpose of the CPE is to protect the public by confirming that persons entering the dental assisting profession possess the skills necessary to perform their dental assistant duties safely and effectively. Candidates applying for the CPE must successfully complete the NDAEB Written Examination or hold the NDAEB Certificate by Transfer of Credentials (without examination) prior to being eligible for the CPE. “Non-Registered Program Graduates” are advised the NDAEB certificate process consists of two parts: the written examination, followed by the CPE. In lieu of the CPE, applicants may choose to voluntarily complete formal intra-oral dental assisting education at a Canadian institute. The institute’s graduates must be eligible to write the NDAEB examination. Contact the NDAEB office or visit the NDAEB website: www.ndaeb.ca for information regarding dental assisting education programs. Candidates choosing voluntary education in lieu of CPE are advised that education completed at programs that are not accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada will not meet the regulatory requirements for most Canadian provinces. The Canadian Dental Assisting Regulatory Authority (CDARA) in candidates’ province may require graduates of Canadian nonaccredited programs to successfully complete the CPE to be considered for licensure/certification/ registration. Candidates who are uncertain as to their licensure status are advised to consult the CDARA in the province they intend to work in before enrolling in a non-accredited education program. Candidates are advised that the decision to require the NDAEB certificate for provincial licensure/certification/registration rests with the Canadian Dental Assisting Regulatory Authority (CDARA). For regulatory information, contact the provincial CDARA to confirm the need to hold the NDAEB certificate before applying to the NDAEB. A provincial exam and/or or clinical evaluation may be required in some jurisdictions. Candidates are advised to seek licensure/listing/certification/ registration information from the provincial CDARA in the province in which they intend to seek employment. For CDARA contact information, see the Registration and Licensure area on the NDAEB website. NDAEB Office Hours & Location The National Dental Assisting Examining Board head office is located in Ottawa, Ontario (Canada) at: 2283 St. Laurent Blvd, Suite 204 Ottawa, ON K1G 5A2 (613) 526 - 3424 (Phone) | (613) 526 - 5560 (Fax) office@ndaeb.ca Hours of Operation from Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern time. Please note: Drop-in/walk-in candidates cannot be permitted for security purposes. Should you require to meet with a staff in person, please contact the office to schedule an appointment ahead of time.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 4 Application Process Eligibility Graduates of Registered Dental Assisting Programs Applicants applying for the CPE from dental assisting programs which are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC), or from non-accredited dental assisting education programs which have been granted exam eligibility by the NDAEB, are considered graduates of a “registered program”. Registered eligible schools are listed on our website (www.ndaeb.ca). To be eligible for the CPE, applicants must: Have achieved and be able to demonstrate a passing mark on the NDAEB Written Exam; or Hold the NDAEB Certificate by Transfer of Credentials (*TOC) Candidates should contact the Canadian Dental Assisting Regulatory Authority (CDARA) in their province to confirm the requirement for the NDAEB Certificate and Clinical Practice Evaluation. Graduates of Non-Registered Programs Graduates of any other dental assisting program (or other dental health program) which is not accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CDAC) and not listed on our registered eligible Schools website, are considered graduates of a “non-registered program”. Applicants wishing to attain the NDAEB certificate are required to successfully complete a two-part NDAEB certificate process which includes the written exam, followed by the Clinical Practice Evaluation. To be eligible to apply for the CPE, applicants must have achieved and received a passing mark on the NDAEB Written Exam. Note - IMPORTANT: The CDARA in your province may require graduates of non-accredited Canadian programs to successfully complete the CPE prior to licensure/registration/ certification (i.e. graduates of accredited programs are not required to take the CPE). - Contact the CDARA in your province to confirm provincial regulatory requirements before enrolling in education programs in lieu of CPE. How to Apply The CPE application process involves completing and submitting a CPE application form online, with a passport-like photo, and full payment (made payable by credit card, in Canadian funds). On the form, candidates will be required to identify their preferred CPE location. The application form can be found on the NDAEB website, under the Clinical Practice Evaluation menu. Availability and capacity are limited so register early. Registration for the CPE is on a firstcome-first-served basis. Each site can only take a limited number of candidates. Once the maximum number of registrants is received, the site will be closed due to full capacity.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 5 All applications must be received by the NDAEB no later than 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on the application deadline date. Incomplete or late applications will not be processed. Note: When first applying to take the CPE, candidates must apply for all nine skills required to complete the CPE. Candidates may not apply for only some skills (a “partial CPE”) unless applying for reevaluation of individual skills (i.e. previously failed these skills) or if proof of education in lieu of certain CPE skills is provided with the submitted application. Candidates enrolled in education upgrading at the time of registration for partial CPE, must show proof that their course/program will be completed prior to the date of the CPE to which they are applying. If education is not completed prior to a candidate’s registered CPE, they will not be eligible to take the CPE and will automatically be withdrawn. The application fee would not be reimbursed; other fees may apply based on the days remaining until the CPE session. Please see the withdrawal fee schedule for other potential fees. Formal Education in Lieu of the CPE Candidates may choose to voluntarily attend academic upgrading at a Canadian dental assisting program in lieu (instead of) taking the CPE. Upgrading programs in lieu of CPE must include all nine skills evaluated on the CPE and must include both theory and clinical instruction and evaluation. Programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada are highly recommended for labour mobility purposes as non-accredited dental assisting education may not be recognized in all provinces. The NDAEB is committed to fairness, transparency and excellence in the availability and service it provides to candidates, stakeholders and the public, and in keeping with NDAEB’s value of fairness to all involved. Therefore, due to the high demand for the CPE, candidates are not permitted to register for a CPE session to hold a place while also awaiting confirmation to attend formal education upgrading in lieu of CPE. If it is determined the candidate has registered for a CPE session while also registering for the same skills via education upgrading in lieu, the candidate will be penalized / assessed at least 50% of their CPE fees upon withdrawing from their scheduled CPE session. Special Accommodations The NDAEB considers all requests for testing CPE accommodations (i.e. modification to the standard CPE environment) on a case-by-case basis. Testing accommodations can be (but not limited to) for reasons of special needs, medical conditions or religion. Requests for accommodations must be made in writing, using the NDAEB “Request for Testing Accommodations” form (available on the NDAEB website, under “Document Library”). Requests for testing accommodations must be submitted with the application and received by the NDAEB no later than 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on the application deadline date. The NDAEB “Request for Testing Accommodations” form (where candidates describe the circumstances requiring accommodation) must be supported by reports or other documentary evidence and signed by a medical practitioner, psychologist or religious leader. The NDAEB reserves the right to determine what conditions/situations constitute a valid request for testing accommodations. Candidates should note that, depending on the availability of clinics in various locations in Canada, requests for special sitting dates due to religious reasons may not be possible at every sitting.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 6 Candidates previously approved for accommodations with the written examination and/or CPE session, must submit a new Request for Testing Accommodations Form with each application, should they wish to have accommodations arranged. Note: Prayer Times will be observed. On the “Request for Testing Accommodations” candidates must state the time(s) required for prayer, and the duration, to facilitate scheduling by NDAEB staff. Evaluation Date and Confirmation The NDAEB typically schedules CPE sessions quarterly. Exact dates may vary at sites across Canada. Visit the NDAEB website www.ndaeb.ca for details regarding dates, times and locations. Candidates who successfully register for the CPE, will receive an email 2-3 weeks before their scheduled CPE session directing them to the candidate portal where they can access their Admission Letter. The Admission Letter will confirm their scheduled evaluation date, time and place to report. To be allowed entry to the clinic, candidates must present their Admission Letter in printed format or on their smart phone screen, along with photo ID. For scheduling reasons, candidates cannot change their selected evaluation site after the CPE application deadline date. Note: Due to clinic availability and the number of candidates applying, evaluations are usually scheduled on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), but may also include the preceding Friday or Monday following the scheduled weekend. Alternate weekends may also apply if required. Candidates however are scheduled for one day only. In the event evaluation dates at specific sites change after the application deadline, the NDAEB will advise candidates as soon as possible. While scheduling changes rarely occur, candidates should plan accordingly. Fees The NDAEB charges the following fees to take the CPE: (made payable by credit card, in Canadian funds) Five (5) skills to all nine (9) skills: $1785 ($1685 CPE fee + a non-refundable $100.00 application fee Four (4) skills: $1560 ($1460 CPE fee + $100 non-refundable application fee) Three (3) skills: $1195 ($1095 CPE + $100 non-refundable application fee) Two (2) skills: $830 ($730 CPE fee + $100 non-refundable application fee) One (1) skill: $465 ($365 CPE fee + $100 non-refundable application fee) As demonstrated above, candidates registering for 5 or more skills are required to pay the full fee of $1,785.00. Note: Due to the cost of administration, the NDAEB does not reimburse overpayments of $20.00 or less. Other fees for licensure/registration/certification in a province are not included in the CPE fees and are determined by, and payable to, the Canadian Dental Assisting Regulatory Authority (CDARA). Contact the CDARA for details on provincial licensing/registration/ certification

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 7 fees. All costs associated with travel, accommodations, etc. to attend CPE session are the responsibility of each candidate. CPE Withdrawal Process Withdrawal Requests are no longer accepted by mail Candidates may withdraw their CPE application at any time by completing the electronic Withdraw Request Form (available on the NDAEB website: www.ndaeb.ca) All CPE application withdrawals are subject to a withdrawal fee Prior to the CPE In the event a candidate is unable to attend the CPE for medical or serious personal reasons, their fees may be reimbursed, or the candidate may be registered for the next session without additional charge, provided the candidate: Notifies the NDAEB in writing, within 24 hours (exceptions to this may be evaluated on a case-by-case basis); AND, Submits a letter from a physician or other professional, confirming the reason for failing to attend the CPE no later than 30 days following the CPE date. Withdrawals for medical reasons or serious personal circumstances will not be assessed a withdrawal fee, except for the non-refundable application and credit processing fee. The NDAEB reserves the right to determine what constitutes serious medical or personal circumstances prior to reimbursing fees. Candidates registered for the CPE who simply fail to present without providing twenty-four (24) hour’s written notice to the NDAEB, will be assessed the full fees for evaluation. During the CPE Candidates experiencing a severe personal circumstance beyond their control that severely disadvantages them immediately before or during the CPE, must do the following: If the event occurs at the CPE site and/or during the evaluation: Candidates must immediately notify their Session Facilitator or Evaluator, Candidates must submit a written signed letter to the NDAEB, documenting the event, within one (1) week of this personal circumstance occurring. NDAEB may require further documentation to support the candidate’s letter; this will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Candidates who do not follow the above procedures may not be eligible for a refund. Withdrawal Fees The application fee of $100.00 (CAD) (for full or partial/retake CPE) is non-refundable and applies to all withdrawals – including applications withdrawn for medical reasons or serious personal circumstances. The CPE fees for withdrawal are described below.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 8 Withdrawal 31 days or more from CPE date = 25% of CPE fee (plus non-refundable application fee) Withdrawal 15-30 days from CPE date = 40% of CPE fee (plus non-refundable application fee) Withdrawal 14 days or less from CPE date (or no-show at the CPE) = 100% of CPE fee (plus non-refundable application fee) If it is determined the candidate has registered for a CPE session while also registered for the same skills via education upgrading in lieu, the candidate will be penalized / assessed at least 50% of their CPE fees upon withdrawing from their scheduled CPE session. Preparing for the Clinical Practice Evaluation Important Information This Candidate Handbook and the orientation video contain detailed information regarding the administration of the Clinical Practice Evaluation. Please review the information carefully before your scheduled Clinical Practice Evaluation session. If you have questions, contact the NDAEB office at: 613-526-3424 or by email: office@ndaeb.ca Note: The orientation video and tray setup photos are available for viewing on the NDAEB website www.ndaeb.ca. Candidates are advised that every effort is made to standardize equipment, instruments and supplies at sites across Canada; however, some variations may occur. Similar items will be available along with manufacturer’s instructions. Frequently Asked Questions Q: Where do I report on evaluation day? A: Candidates will be notified, by email, to retrieve their Admission Letter from the NDAEB candidate portal approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to their evaluation date. The admission letter will include the date, time and location of the Clinical Practice Evaluation. If a candidate has not received an email notification to retrieve their Admission Letter within 10 days of their CPE, they must contact the NDAEB office at 1-613-526-3424. You must report to the specific location provided on your Admission Letter for entry into the college. Q: What do I bring with me on evaluation day? A: You MUST: Government-issued photo ID such as driver’s license, passport or health card. Your Admission Letter in printed format or on your smart phone screen. A clinical uniform/scrubs with no personal, college or dental clinic identifiers. Clinic shoes (closed toe and heel), socks/hosiery. These must be worn (a change area will be available) at all times while in the clinic. Mandatory safety glasses (clear glass only) or prescription glasses. Dental loupes are allowed. However, an alternative pair of safety glasses must be available. Glasses MUST

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 9 be worn at all times while in the clinic. Face shields are allowed but must be worn in addition to safety glasses. These will not be provided by the site. Note: Jewelry must be kept to a minimum. Note: If you do not produce ID and do not bring the above items you will not be permitted into the clinic, will not be evaluated and will forfeit your CPE and application fees. You may NOT use aids such as the NDAEB Candidate Handbook, textbooks, papers with notes or photos, or other items in the clinic. Personal instruments and supplies are not permitted, with the exception of latex-free gloves and/or masks. These will be provided for candidates, but candidates may bring their own if they prefer. The use of electronics such as: cell phones, cameras, smartphones and smart watches, MP3 players, Discmans, laptops or any other electronic device is strictly prohibited in the clinic, except to show your Admission Letter to your Evaluator. All electronics must be turned off and remain off in the clinic. Devices must be stored out of view along with your identification and any other belongings such purses, wallets, photo identification in your unit. You may access your electronic devices and belongings from your unit during the break time. Do not bring valuables, the NDAEB is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Note: Candidates found using any electronic device in the clinic, will be escorted from the clinic and awarded a failure on their evaluation. * Each candidate is assigned to a unit (i.e. a dental chair / operatory unit) for the entire day (except for the radiography skill). Each has storage for personal belongings. Q: Is there an orientation session? A: Yes. Candidates must be very familiar with the information in this handbook before arriving at the CPE session. Additionally, candidates are advised to view the video on the NDAEB website www.ndaeb.ca before reporting for the CPE session. Candidates must plan to arrive on the day and time specified in the Admission Letter. If a candidate is taking four (4) or more skills, the orientation will last one hour. If a candidate is taking three (3) or fewer skills, the orientation will be tailored to your skills. The orientation session will include showing the Candidate Orientation video to remind candidates about specific aspects of the CPE. It will also familiarize candidates with the manikin and equipment, instruments and supplies. Candidates will be given an opportunity to operate equipment such as chairs, dental lights delivery units, handpieces, oral evacuation and radiography exposure buttons. Instrument trays and product directions will also be available during this time. Any specific health and safety protocols for your site will also be explained. Candidates will not be permitted to assemble or manipulate equipment and supplies or practice skills on the manikin during the orientation session. Note: the orientation will NOT be a tutorial or instructional session. Candidates that arrive late (i.e. after the time on their Admission Letter and after the orientation session begins) will not be given extra time to become familiar with the clinic, equipment and supplies. Arriving late/Arriving on the wrong day: Candidates arriving after the session begins or on the wrong day may not be evaluated. The Session Facilitator will determine if a candidate arriving late or on the wrong day will be evaluated, based on factors at the site on that day.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 10 Q: Will I be permitted to ask questions during the orientation session? A: Yes. Questions regarding the clinic facility, the operation of equipment and general evaluation questions will be answered. Questions related directly to the performance of the skills being evaluated will not be discussed or answered. Q: Are visitors allowed? A: No. Visitors are not permitted under any circumstances. Childcare is not available and arrangements must be made by the candidate for childcare. Q: How long does the evaluation take? A: On average, candidates attending the full CPE (9 skills) should expect to be at the facility for approximately six (6) hours, including the one-hour orientation. A break will be provided. You are advised to bring a light snack, bottled water or other drinks. Water/drinks and food cannot be consumed in the clinic. CPE Administration CPE Evaluators Each candidate is assigned a primary Evaluator who will assess all skills for the candidate during the session. Evaluators have been educated to apply evaluation criteria in a standardized manner through a process known as “calibration”. In addition, a Session Facilitator will confirm all evaluation outcomes. This process ensures a standardized evaluation for all candidates. NDAEB Evaluators and Session Facilitators are highly trained. All CPE results are final. Interaction Between Candidates and Evaluators Evaluators will only permit the exchange of information directly related to the Clinical Practice Evaluation. All other communication between candidates and evaluators is prohibited. Candidates must refrain from discussions of a personal nature with Evaluators or others associated with the CPE. Information regarding their educational background, such as school of graduation, or other personal information should not be shared. Code of Conduct Candidates are expected to act professionally at all times. Outbursts, offensive language or threats of any kind will not be tolerated. Session Facilitators may dismiss candidates (i.e. terminate their CPE and ask for their departure from the building) for this type of behavior. Re-takes will not be granted, and future attempts to register for the CPE may be denied. Please see the Code of Conduct in the Appendices, for a comprehensive description of expected behaviour.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 11 CPE Skills and Outcomes Skills Candidates will be evaluated on the following intra-oral skills performed on a manikin: 1. Exposing Digital Radiographic Images 2. Obtaining Impressions for Study Models 3. Applying and Removes Dental Dam 4. Selective Coronal Polishing 5. Applying Treatment Liner 6. Applying and Removing Matrix and Wedge 7. Applying Anti-Cariogenic Topical Fluoride Gel 8. Applying Pit and Fissure Sealant 9. Applying Topical Anesthetic Required Outcomes/Results Candidates are reminded that the CPE is intended to measure ability to perform each of the skills as the operator. Evaluation forms will be used to record the candidates’ performance. Candidates will be provided with an electronic copy of their evaluation results for each skill. Evaluation forms are divided into two sections – “Procedure” and “Professional Practice” Within each section, there are several criteria that candidates will be evaluated against Candidates will be awarded either an “A” (acceptable) or “U” (unacceptable) for each criterion Some criteria are “critical” – and others are not. A “critical” criterion is fundamental to performing the skill adequately and safely. To successfully pass a skill, candidates must be awarded an “A” grade for every critical criterion. One “U” on a critical criterion will result in failure of the entire skill. In both sections, the critical criteria for each skill are indicated by a black “dot” between the A and U columns. Candidates must pass all critical criteria to pass the skill. This “snap shot” will need to be replaced with the 2025 version of dental dam as the criteria has changed.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 12 • For example: In the skill “Applies and Removes Dental Dam”; if a “U” grade is awarded for the criterion “Completely exposes bow and wings of clamp on 17” this will result in failure for this criterion. In addition, because “Completely exposes bow and wings of clamp on 17” is a critical criterion, it will also result in failure of the “Applies and Removes Dental Dam” skill. • All skills allow for one re-attempt within the allotted time to correct errors that are not related to patient safety (i.e. all criteria under “Professional Practice” except “Time Management). • It is the candidate’s responsibility to advise their Evaluator when they are finished or if they would like to re-attempt the skill, provided re-attempts have not been exhausted and time is remaining. Candidates will NOT be told if they passed or failed a skill; they must reflect on their own performance and product, then self-assess. If the candidate chooses to re-attempt the skill, the candidate will be evaluated on their best process/product, considering Professional Practice criteria. For example: In the skill “Applies and Removes Dental Dam”; if the candidate is awarded a “U” grade for the critical criterion “Bow and wings are completely exposed on 17” during their first attempt, but on their second attempt the error is corrected and an “A” grade is awarded, the “A” grade will stand as this technical error is NOT related to patient safety. Critical errors awarded a “U” grade under “Professional Practice” (those which would harm the patient) at any time, on any attempt, will be awarded a “U” grade. This “U” grade will not be reversed from a “U” grade to an “A” grade even if the error is corrected on a re-attempt. For example: In the skill “Applies and Removes Dental Dam”; if the candidate is awarded a “U” grade for the critical criterion “Places clamp in the mouth with safety floss attached” on any attempt, the candidate will also be awarded a “U” grade for the critical criterion “Performs the skill safely and with care”. This technical and patient safety error cannot be corrected on a re-attempt of the skill. The “U” grade will stand even if the error is corrected. This will result in failure of the skill “Applies and Removes Dental Dam”. To review the complete evaluation forms for each skill, please see Appendix A of this handbook. Skill Evaluation Process This is a description of the start-to-end process for how skill evaluation will take place. A treatment prescription will be provided for each skill. A maximum of five (5) minutes will be permitted to read the prescription before beginning the procedure. Candidates will be able to refer to the treatment prescription at any time during the performance of the skill. Treatment prescriptions will include the time limit. Where skills include a placement and removal (such as “Applies and Removes Dental Dam”), both the successful placement and removal will be required during the stated time limit. Candidates must follow the treatment prescription exactly. The product directions for dental materials (if applicable) may also be reviewed within the five (5) minutes thatare permitted to read the prescription. Candidates will be able to refer to the product directions at any time during the performance of the skill.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 13 Candidates who are ready to proceed before the five minutes have expired, may advise their Evaluator they are ready to start. Candidates will be directed by their Evaluator to place their mask and put on their gloves. Putting on gloves and placing the mask is not included in the allotted time for the skill. Once the candidate advises their Evaluator they are ready to begin the skill, the timer will be started. Candidates must advise their Evaluator when they are ready to have their work evaluated. At this point, the timer will be stopped and the candidate will be directed to remove their gloves and mask. If the candidate wishes to re-attempt in the allotted time, the candidate MUST informtheir evaluator BEFORE they leave the operatory. Candidates who do not request a re-attempt before leaving the operatory will not be permitted to return to make adjustments to their work, even if time remains to complete the skill. Candidates will be asked to leave the operatory/station to allow the Evaluators to evaluate the product. For the skills “Applies and Removes Dental Dam and Applies” and “Removes Matrix and Wedge”, the candidate will be directed to, and evaluated on, the removal of the dental dam and matrix and wedge BEFORE the reattempt. This is for the benefit of the candidate. Evaluation Form: Procedure As described previously, skill evaluation forms are divided into two sections – “Procedure” and “Professional Practice”. This section describes what candidates should know about the “Procedure” criteria for performing the skills, in the context of manikins as patients at the CPE. It addresses how the CPE will unfold using manikins. Exposing Digital Radiographic Images All sites use a combination thyroid collar/lead apron. Radiographic images will be exposed on a Dexter using the paralleling technique for periapical images and the RINN bitewing equipment or tab for the bitewing, with phosphor storage plates (PSPs). Information specific to opening and closing the Dexter and activating the exposure button will be provided. Candidates will NOT be given instruction or a demonstration on how to assemble the RINN XCP equipment for image exposure. Candidates must assemble their own RINN XCP paralleling equipment and place the PSPs into the biteblock for the periapical and bitewing images. If the candidate chooses to use the tab instead of the RINN XCP bitewing holder for the bitewing, they must place their own bitewing tab on the plate. Please refer to : https://www.dentsplysirona.com/content/dam/dentsply/pim/manufacturer/Preventive/X_ray/Sensor_Holders/Au toclavable/ComfortWand_Universal_Sensor_Holder/XCP-Intraoral-Radiography-Education-Manual.pdf Three (3) size 2 PSPs and one (1) size 1 PSP will be provided. Two additional PSPs will be provided for retake exposures. Exposed images will be scanned by the NDAEB personnel in the presence of the candidate. There is no requirement for candidates to have any knowledge of scanning equipment or dental software. The timer is stopped for NDAEB personnel to scan and mount the candidate’s images. Images will be mounted on the computer monitor by NDAEB personnel the way they were exposed.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 14 Obtaining Impressions for Study Models The impression trays that will be provided have been fitted for each manikin. Applying and Removing Dental Dam The clamp that will be provided has been fitted for each manikin. Selective Coronal Polishing Lead pencil will be used to create the stain on the manikin’s teeth. The stain will match the prescription. Applying and Removing Matrix Band and Wedge The retainer, matrix band and wedge will be provided and has been fitted for each manikin. Applying Anti-Cariogenic Agent - Topical Fluoride Gel (APF) The anti-cariogenic agent will be applied to the teeth using the tray method. The fluoride trays that will be used have been fitted for each manikin. On the manikin, the anti-cariogenic agent adheres to plastic teeth and is difficult to remove with suction. Candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of removing the excess anti-cariogenic agent after the trays are removed from the mouth, but there is not an expectation that candidates will be able to remove all of the excess fluoride from the plastic teeth. Applying Pit and Fissure Sealant The pit and fissure sealant will be applied to the prescribed tooth using cotton roll isolation. Although the manikin does not salivate, candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of adequate isolation and re-isolation without saliva contamination. Applying Topical Anesthetic On the manikin, the muccobuccal fold is located where the gingival tissues meet the hard plastic. Evaluation Form: Professional Practice This section describes what candidates should know about the “Professional Practice” criteria for performing the skills, in the context of manikins as patients at the CPE. It addresses how the CPE will unfold using manikins. Infection Prevention Candidates will not be required to wash their hands prior to placing their mask and putting on their gloves. No over gloves or barriers will be used to cover equipment. All equipment and supply items are for your manikin (patient). Regardless of the style of uniform/scrubs/lab coat, gloves must be worn in compliance with standard aseptic protocols. Gloves must be over top of long sleeves. Gloves must be worn throughout the prescribed treatment. Glove changes may be requested by the candidate as often as required. Glove changes are off-time. Wrist watches, medical alert bracelets, bracelets, bangles or rings worn at the wrist, must be covered with a barrier. Barrier tape will be provided by the site.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 15 Masks must be worn throughout the prescribed treatment. Masks must be placed fully covering the nose and mouth at all times. Mask changes may be requested by the candidate as often as required. Mask changes are off-time. All aspects of infection prevention must be adhered to during the prescribed procedure while the timer is running. Before the timer is started or after the timer is stopped, infection prevention is not evaluated. If an instrument or supply item is dropped on the floor, the timer will be stopped while the evaluator replaces it. If any other break in asepsis occurs during the prescribed procedure at any time while the timer is running, it is the responsibility of the candidate to correct the error. If an instrument comes in contact with the candidate’s hair or uniform/scrubs/lab coat, breaking the chain of asepsis, during the prescribed procedure at any time while the timer is running, the candidate must request a new instrument. The timer will be stopped while the correction of the asepsis error takes place. If a new instrument is not requested and the candidate continues to work intra-orally, causing cross contamination, the candidate will receive a “U” grade for the critical criterion “Maintains aseptic technique during the timed procedure” and “Performs the skill safely and with care,” resulting in failure of the skill. If the candidate rips their glove(s) or any part of their glove(s) come in contact with the candidate’s hair or uniform/scrubs/lab coat, breaking the chain of asepsis, during the prescribed procedure at any time while the timer is running, the candidate must request an opportunity to re-glove. The timer will be stopped while the correction of the asepsis error takes place. If a new glove(s) is not requested and the candidate continues to work intra-orally, causing cross contamination, the candidate will receive a “U” grade for the criteria “Maintains aseptic technique during the timed procedure” and “Performs the skill safely and with care.” Breaks in asepsis during the prescribed procedure at any time, while the timer is running, on any attempts that are not corrected by the candidate will result in the awarding of a “U” grade under the critical criteria “Maintains aseptic technique during the timed procedure” and “Performs the skill safely and with care”. These patient safety errors cannot be corrected on re-attempts and will result in failure of the skill even if all other criteria are met. Using a Fulcrum The use of a consistent intra or extra oral fulcrum will be required when using all working instruments (explorer, handpiece, spoon excavator). An extra oral fulcrum includes a finger or hand rest on the manikin’s hard/bony structures of the maxilla or mandible. An intra oral “built-up” fulcrum will be acceptable. A fulcrum will not be required when using a mouth mirror, articulating paper holder, cotton pliers, liner applicator, burnisher, Howe pliers, clamp forceps, cotton tip applicators, scissors, etch, sealant, treatment liner syringes and/or Micro tip applicator. However, these items must be used in a safe manner. Failure to use a consistent intra or extra oral fulcrum or built-up fulcrum with working instruments at any point during the prescribed procedure (explorer, handpiece, spoon excavator) will result in the awarding of a “U” grade under the critical criteria “Uses a consistent intra or extra oral fulcrum or built up fulcrum with the explorer and/or spoon excavator and/or slow speed handpiece” and “Performs the skill safely and with care”. This type of patient safety error cannot be corrected on re-attempts/re-applications and will result in failure of the skill even if all other criteria are met. Failure to use other instruments in a safe manner will result in a “U” grade under the critical criterion “Performs the skill safely and with care”. This type of patient safety error cannot be corrected on re-

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 16 attempts/re-applications and will result in failure of the skill even if all other criteria are met. Performing the Skill Safely and with Care Any negligent behavior that does or could result in injury to the patient or damage to the teeth will be awarded a “U” grade under “Performs the skill safely and with care”. This patient safety error cannot be corrected on re-attempts and will result in failure of the skill even if all other criteria are met. Time Management In order to receive an “A” grade in this criterion, candidates are not required to perform every one of the criteria. However, all critical criteria must be performed before the time limit. CPE Results Timing Candidates will receive an email notification from the NDAEB four to six weeks following the evaluation date advising them that their results have been made available on the candidate portal. Non-registered program graduates who have successfully completed all requirements on the CPE will have their NDAEB certificate forwarded by regular mail. I am not sure if these are highlighted for a reason other than drawing the candidate’s attention to the information. Same with the highlighted area in the next section. Reporting to Regulatory Authorities In the interest of public safety, the NDAEB will automatically release candidates’ CPE results, pass or fail, to the Canadian Dental Assisting Regulatory Authority (CDARA) in the province in which the candidate resides – and may subsequently release pass/fail information to a CDARA in any province upon request. The release of CPE results to third parties, other than a CDARA, will only be done with the written consent of the candidate. Please refer to NDAEB privacy policy and the CPE application form for details. Unsuccessful CPE Evaluation Candidates are asked to note the following items, if they are unsuccessful in passing any/all of their CPE skills: The NDAEB office and staff can NOT and will NOT discuss results with candidates. CPE results are final and will not be changed under any circumstances. Candidates who are unsuccessful may apply for re-evaluation at another CPE date. The same CPE and application fees apply, whether a candidate is on their first, second or final CPE attempt. Candidates only need to be re- evaluated on the unsuccessfully-evaluated skills from previous CPE attempt(s) (within the CPE timeline – see below for more details). Previous successfully evaluated skills will be recorded as a “pass”. Candidates must successfully pass all CPE skills within 13 (thirteen) months of taking their initial CPE session. Candidates failing to successfully complete the entire CPE within 13 (thirteen) months of the initial attempt will be required to retake the entire CPE (all nine skills) or complete educational upgrading in lieu in order to attain the NDAEB certificate or letter indicating successful

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2024 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 17 completion of the CPE. Candidates may attempt all skills a maximum of three (3) times (initial CPE session and two additional attempts) before being directed to an eligible Canadian dental assisting program for education upgrading. Candidates will be responsible for all costs associated with education upgrading. Appeals Candidates who sit the NDAEB Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE) may submit an electronic appeal only if the request is based on one or more of the following grounds for appeal: Procedural grounds (e.g. if proper procedures, as described in this handbook, were not followed) Environmental grounds (e.g. if a marching band was practicing in the same room as the CPE) Personal grounds (e.g. if approved special accommodations were not provided) Appeals received for any other reasons will not be accepted and will not be heard by the Appeals Committee. Note: The NDAEB Appeals Committee rules on all appeals. Successful appeals will NEVER change a “fail” grade to a “pass” and NEVER result in the issuing of the NDAEB Certificate. If successful, an appeal may result in a re-evaluation at no cost to the candidate at the next available CPE session. In such cases, the evaluation result in question may be expunged from the candidate’s file. All decisions by the Appeals Committee are final and will not be revisited. Appeals Process Appeal Requests are no longer accepted by mail The fee to submit an electronic appeal is $260 ($210 + $50 non-refundable processing fee). Note: • In the event an appeal is granted, the full appeal fee ($210) including the non-refundable ($50) processing fee will be credited back to the credit card used at the time of initial payment. • If it is determined that there are no grounds for an appeal, the candidate will be refunded the appeal fee of $210, the non-refundable processing fee of $50 will be assessed. Candidates must follow the process described below, in order to have their appeal considered: A request for appeal must:  Be submitted using the electronic application form available on the NDAEB website www.ndaeb.ca.  Be received by the NDAEB no later than 4:30p.m. Eastern Time on the thirtieth (30th) day following the date appearing on the candidate result letter  Identify the appealed decision  State the reasons for appeal, including the basis and evidence of grounds for appeal If the appeal is based on personal grounds, the submission must also include:  Official medical professional documentation with the full name, office address, telephone number, and signature of the medical professional confirming the nature of the appellant’s

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