CPE Candidate Handbook

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board I Table of Contents INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... 4 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS...................................................................................... 5 Graduates of Registered Dental Assisting Programs ................................................................................... 4 Graduates of Non-Registered Programs .................................................................................................... 4 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ..................................................................................... 7 How to Apply .............................................................................................................................. 7 Formal Education in Lieu of the CPE............................................................................................... 7 Special Accommodations ............................................................................................................... 8 Evaluation Date and Confirmation .................................................................................................. 8 Fees ............................................................................................................................................ 9 CPE Withdrawal..........................................................................................................................10 Process ................................................................................................................................................. 10 Withdrawal Fees .................................................................................................................................... 11 PREPARING FOR THE CLINICAL PRACTICE EVALUATION ............................. 11 Important Information .................................................................................................................10 Frequently Asked Questions .........................................................................................................10 CPE ADMINISTRATION ............................................................................................ 12 CPE Evaluators ............................................................................................................................12 Interaction Between Candidates and Evaluators ..............................................................................12 Code of Conduct ........................................................................................................................13 CPE SKILLS AND OUTCOMES................................................................................. 13 Skills ..........................................................................................................................................13 Required Outcomes/Results .........................................................................................................13 Examples of Assessment - First and Second Attempt ...............................................................15 Skill Evaluation Flow ....................................................................................................................15 Process ................................................................................................................................................. 15 Evaluation Form: Procedure .................................................................................................................... 15 Evaluation Form: Professional Practice ..................................................................................................... 17 CPE RESULTS ............................................................................................................. 20 Timing ........................................................................................................................................20 Reporting to Regulatory Authorities ..............................................................................................20 Unsuccessful CPE Evaluation .........................................................................................................20 Appeals ......................................................................................................................................21 Appeals Process ..................................................................................................................................... 21

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board II NDAEB CERTIFICATE RELEASE.................................................................................. 22 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 23 Provincial Licensure/Listing/Certification/Registration ......................................................................23 Returning to Practice ...................................................................................................................23 COPYRIGHT & DISCLAIMER .................................................................................... 23 APPENDIX A – DENTAL EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS, MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES .................................................................................................................... 24 Tray Photos ........................................................................................................................................... 24 APPENDIX B: PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE AND SAFETY ........................................ 25 Professional Attire .......................................................................................................................25 Uniform ................................................................................................................................................ 25 Jewelry and Hair .................................................................................................................................. 25 Personal Protective Equipment ................................................................................................... 26 Safety Glasses (clear glass only): ....................................................................................................... 26 Gloves ................................................................................................................................................. 26 Masks .................................................................................................................................................. 26 Personal Dental Equipment, Instruments, Materials and Supplies ..................................................... 26 Host Clinic Safety ................................................................................................................................ 26 APPENDIX C: NDAEB CODE OF CONDUCT ........................................................ 26 APPENDIX D – EVALUATION FORMS SKILLS 1-9 ............................................... 28 Skill 1................................................................................................................................................................................... 29 Skill 2................................................................................................................................................................................... 31 Skill 3 .........................................................................................................................................33 Skill 4 .........................................................................................................................................35 Skill 5 .........................................................................................................................................37 Skill 6 .........................................................................................................................................38 Skill 7 .........................................................................................................................................40 Skill 8 .........................................................................................................................................42 Skill 9 .........................................................................................................................................44 APPENDIX E: REFERENCES ..................................................................................... 45

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 3 Introduction This handbook provides information to candidates preparing to take the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Clinic Practice Evaluation (CPE). While efforts have been made to ensure the information supplied is accurate, you acknowledge the handbook and its contents are being provided to you on an “as is” basis without any warranties, representations or conditions regarding its accuracy and that all risk associated with its use is assumed by you. In no event will the National Dental Assisting Examining Board or its agents be liable to you for any loss or damage arising, whether directly or indirectly, from your use of this handbook, including any special, indirect or consequential damages, howsoever caused. Should discrepancies occur, please notify the National Dental Assisting Examining Board office by telephone: (613) 526-3424 or email: office@ndaeb.ca. In Canada, the regulation of the dental assisting profession lies within the jurisdiction of each province. Provincial governments have mandated the responsibility to a provincial regulatory body called a College, Board, Council or Association. While the NDAEB will encourage all dental assisting regulatory bodies to recognize the NDAEB certificate as the initial requirement for registration/certification/licensure in their province, acceptance of the NDAEB certificate is completely at the discretion of the Canadian Dental Assisting Regulatory Authorities (CDARA). The NDAEB has developed and maintains the CPE to aid in the licensure/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 are advised to contact their provincial CDARA or association to confirm NDAEB Theory Exam and/or CPE requirements before applying to the NDAEB. 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 9:00 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 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 4 Eligibility Requirements To be eligible with the NDAEB, candidates MUST complete both theoretical and clinical formal education in all essential National Core Skills from an education program recognized by the NDAEB. These Core Skills are detailed in the Dental Assisting Domain Description which can be found on the NDAEB website. Since June 1999, NDAEB policy mandates students to finish their practical training before taking the exam or CPE. The hands-on experience gained during these placements can be advantageous when preparing for the test. 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 program graduates requiring the CPE, may directly apply to register for the CPE with proof of education if : Have achieved and be able to demonstrate a passing mark on the NDAEB Theory Exam; or, Hold the NDAEB Certificate by Transfer of Credentials (TOC*). Candidates should contact the CDARA in their province to confirm the requirement for the NDAEB Certificate and Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE). *Graduates 2017 and Prior: Candidates who have completed a registered dental assisting program before 2017, or who had been awarded the NDAEB Certificate by Transfer of Credentials (TOC), must submit their diploma for assessment to determine education meets current requirements for eligibility. Please contact our office at office@ndaeb.ca. Important Notice: Effective January 1, 2031, to maintain NDAEB registered dental assisting program status, dental assisting programs must be accredited with the CDAC. Registered non-accredited dental assisting programs that do not obtain CDAC accreditation by this date, will no longer be considered a “registered program” with the NDAEB and graduates will no longer be granted automatic exam eligibility and will be considered graduates of a non-registered program. For a list of registered dental assisting programs, please see the NDAEB website. Candidates are urged to contact the CDARA or association in their province to confirm the requirement for the NDAEB Certificate and Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE) before applying for the CPE and/or Theory Exam. Graduates of Non-Registered Programs Applicants from any other dental assisting program (or other dental health program) which is not accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CDAC) and/or not listed on our registered eligible “Schools” section of the website, are considered Graduates of a Non-Registered Program (GNRP). To be considered for NDAEB eligibility, applicants must have their academic credentials assessed through a formal evaluation process in order to determine their theoretical and clinical education meets

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 5 Canadian national standards as outlined in the NDAEB Dental Assisting Domain Description. Following receipt of the Credential Assessment Fee and required documents for assessment, the NDAEB Candidate Eligibility Assessment Committee (CEAC) will review the applicant’s credentials to determine their eligibility and equivalency to the national standard. A Candidate may then apply for the Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE) followed by the Theory Exam after they have formally received a letter of Eligibility. Candidates may not apply for the NDAEB CPE without first receiving an official Candidate Eligibility Assessment Committee (CEAC) letter of approval. See the NDAEB website for further details. Two-Part Certificate Process Effective January 1, 2026, candidates who have not graduated from a CDAC accredited dental assisting program will be required to successfully complete the Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE) (Part I) BEFORE being granted eligibility for the Theory Examination (Part II). Upon successful completion of both the CPE and Theory Exam, the NDAEB Certificate will then be issued. In lieu of the CPE, applicants may choose to voluntarily complete formal intra-oral dental assisting education at a Canadian institute. Candidates choosing voluntary education in lieu of the CPE are advised that education completed at programs that are not accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) will not meet the regulatory requirements for most Canadian provinces. The CDARA in candidates’ province may require graduates of Canadian non-accredited 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. Please note the following considerations: 1. Candidates of registered non-accredited dental assisting programs granted “registered program” status prior to December 31, 2025, will be bridged and exempted from this policy change until December 31, 2030; as such, the CPE requirement will not apply with the NDAEB for issuance of the NDAEB Certificate. However, CPE requirements may still apply if required by a CDARA for provincial licensure/registration. Please contact your CDARA if you are unsure of your CPE requirements before applying for the examination. 2. Non-registered program graduates who had their credentials assessed by December 31, 2025, and have completed or attempted an initial attempt on the Theory Examination, but have not yet been awarded the NDAEB Certificate, must continue to follow the former process of completing the Theory Examination first, followed by the CPE in order to be issued the NDAEB Certificate. 3. Non-registered program graduates who had their credentials assessed by December 31, 2025 or who were in the process of having their credentials assessed by that date and have not completed an initial attempt on the Theory Examination, must follow the new Certificate process and required to successfully complete the CPE before being eligible to take the Theory Examination.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 6 Application Procedure 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. On registration day, the CPE application form can be found on the NDAEB website, under the Clinical Practice Evaluation menu [Evaluation Application]. 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. IMPORTANT NOTICE: All applications received are timestamped based on the time received by the NDAEB office. If your application is received prior to the closure of a site due to maximum capacity, it will not be processed, and your payment will be fully reimbursed, and you may apply at the next CPE registration. 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 re-evaluation 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 and credit card fees will 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 accredited by the Commission on Dental Accredited of Canada 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. Be advised, only education upgrading completed at a dental assisting program accredited by the CDAC will be granted exemption on the CPE by the NDAEB. Education upgrading completed at a registered dental assisting program not accredited by CDAC will not be accepted for exemption and the CPE may be required. 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 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 a 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.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 7 Special Accommodations The NDAEB considers all requests for special accommodation (i.e. modification to the standard CPE environment) on a case-by-case basis. Special accommodation can be (but not limited to) for reasons of special needs, medical conditions or religion. Special accommodation requests are made during the online CPE application process. The NDAEB makes every reasonable effort to administer Evaluations/Examinations in a manner that is fair and equitable to all persons. Medical accommodations or special sitting dates/accommodations for religious reasons must be approved by the NDAEB. Requests for evaluation/testing accommodations MUST be made prior to the CPE application deadline. Changes cannot be made following the application deadline. To request medical accommodation(s) a signed Medical Accommodation Request Form completed by a regulated health care professional must be submitted during the online Clinic Practice Evaluation application process or emailed to office@ndaeb.ca no later than the application deadline date. The Medical Accommodation Request form must be dated within 6 months of the application deadline date. Requests for prayer time accommodations will be observed and the time(s)/duration(s) must be stipulated on the online application form during the CPE registration process. During the CPE registration process, candidates requesting alternate dates due to religious reasons must include a scanned copy of original documentation signed by a religious leader confirming a candidate’s inability to attend a scheduled evaluation or examination and include time(s) and/or date(s) required. When authorized by the Chief Administrative Officer/Registrar, NDAEB will accommodate requests for alternate evaluation dates where possible. 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. Accommodation(s) granted to a candidate will be valid for one evaluation and are not automatically transferrable to subsequent evaluations. Candidates requiring a retake of an evaluation will again be required to submit the Medical Accommodation Request Form and may be required to supply further supporting documentation. Note: The Chief Administrative Officer/Registrar reserves the right to request additional supporting documentation for all requests for accommodations and will assess requests on an individual basis and if deemed eligible may provide a reasonable accommodation, as appropriate. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure they include the Medical Accommodation Request Form with their application. Candidates who fail to provide the required documentation, risk having their request(s) for accommodations unfulfilled or denied. The NDAEB reserves the right to determine what conditions/situations constitute a valid request for evaluation/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. 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 and locations.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 8 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 valid (not expired) government issued 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 by telephone and/ email correspondence as soon as possible. While scheduling changes rarely occur, candidates should plan accordingly. Please Note: In the event of a CPE date change, candidates are responsible to fully read all email correspondence and documentation posted to the Candidate Portal. Failure to do so may result in a missed CPE session and all fees will be assessed. Arriving late/Arriving on the wrong day: 1. Candidates that arrive late but before the evaluations begin (i.e. after the time on their Admission Letter will not be given extra time to become familiar with the clinic, equipment, and supplies. 2. Candidates arriving after the orientation and evaluations begin, or arrive on the wrong day, will not be evaluated. 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 fees.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 9 All costs associated with travel, accommodations, etc. to attend the CPE session are the responsibility of each candidate. CPE Withdrawal Process Candidates may withdraw their CPE application at any time by completing the electronic Withdrawal Request Form. Please note that 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 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 appear without providing at least twenty-four (24) hours’ written notice to the NDAEB, will be assessed the full evaluation fees. Due to the high demand and limited availability, transfer requests will not be considered unless a withdrawal is required for medical or serious personal circumstances. Immediately prior or during the CPE Candidates experiencing severe personal circumstances beyond their control that severely disadvantages them immediately before or during the CPE, must do the following:  If the event occurs on the day of (immediately prior to) the CPE evaluation: • Candidates must immediately contact the emergency number on their Admission Letter to speak with an NDAEB representative or leave a voice message briefly explaining the personal circumstance so that it may be documented by onsite NDAEB personnel, • Candidates must submit a written signed letter (email) 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.  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 (email) 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 caseby-case basis.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 10 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. 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 failure to appear [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 contains detailed information regarding the administration of the Clinical Practice Evaluation (CPE). 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 is 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 the product directions. (Refer to: Appendix A: Dental Equipment, Instruments, Materials and Supplies). 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 in your Admission Letter for entry into the college. Q: What do I bring with me on evaluation day? A: You MUST bring: Valid (not expired) government-issued photo ID such as driver’s license, passport or health card.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 11 Your Admission Letter in printed format or on your smart phone screen. A clinical uniform/scrubs with no personal, college or dental clinic identifiers. (A change area will be available by the site). Clinic shoes (closed toe and heel), socks/hosiery. These must be worn 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 be worn at all times while in the clinic. Protective eye wear will not be provided by the site. Scrub cap (cultural head covers are acceptable). If you do not have a scrub cap, a disposable bonnet will be provided by the site. (Refer to: Appendix B: Professional Attire and Safety). Note: If you do not produce government issued photo 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 loop and tie up masks. NDAEB provides candidates with earloop face masks and “NITRILE” brand latex & powder free gloves, but candidates may bring their own if they prefer. If you require a specific type of glove or mask, you must bring them with you. GLOVES MUST BE LATEX FREE ONLY. 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 must remain off and stowed away when in the clinic. Devices must be stored out of view along with your identification and any other belongings such as purses, wallets, photo identification in your unit. You may access your electronic devices and belongings from your unit/locker during break time. Do not bring valuables, the NDAEB is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Note: 1. Candidates found using any electronic device in the clinic will be escorted from the clinic and awarded a failure on their evaluation. 2. * Each candidate is assigned to a unit (i.e. a dental chair / operatory unit) for the entire day (except for the radiography skill). Q: Is there an orientation session? A: Yes. Candidates must familiarize themself with the information in this handbook before arriving at the CPE session. Additionally, candidates are advised to view the tray setups at the Appendix A 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 five (5) or more skills, the orientation will last approximately one hour. Q: What does the orientation session include? The orientation session will include information about specific aspects of the CPE. It will also familiarize candidates with the manikin and the clinical equipment, instruments and supplies. All 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. Candidates are permitted to assemble clamp forceps/clams, matrix

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 12 band/tofflemire, and XCP/XCPD equipment and may practice suctioning and operating the slowspeed handpiece in the manikin’s mouth during the orientation session. 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. 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 seven (7) hours, including the one -hour orientation and break time. Candidates attending for fewer than nine (9) skills, will be at the facility for varying lengths of time, depending on which skills and how many skills need to be completed. Most facilities have no food or drinks available for purchase. Candidates are advised to bring a light snack, bottled water/drinks. The site will provide an area where food/drinks can be consumed. Water/drinks and food cannot be brought into the clinic. Note: Please be mindful of the time you need to be at your site to complete your CPE and leave yourself sufficient time for transportation needs (i.e., flights, ferry or train reservations etc). CPE Administration CPE Evaluators Each candidate is assigned a primary Evaluator who will assess all skills for the candidate during the session. Session Facilitators will oversee the CPE 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. Note: 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 (CPE). All other communication between candidates and evaluators is prohibited.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 13 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 behaviour. Future attempts to register for the CPE may be denied. Aggressive intimidating behaviour or any form of verbal or physical abuse towards staff or other participants at a CPE session, will not be tolerated and may result in an immediate revocation of NDAEB eligibility. Please see the Appendix C: Code of Conduct for a comprehensive description of expected behaviour. CPE Skills and Outcomes Skills Candidates will be evaluated on the following intra-oral skills performed on a manikin: 1. Exposes Digital Radiographic Images 2. Obtains Impressions for Study Models 3. Applies and Removes Dental Dam 4. Selective Coronal Polishing 5. Applies Treatment Liner 6. Applies and Removing Matrix and Wedge 7. Applies Anti-Cariogenic Topical Fluoride Gel 8. Applies Pit and Fissure Sealant 9. Applies 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 through their Candidate Portal. All skills allow for one re-attempt within the allotted time to correct any errors. Evaluation forms are divided into two sections – “Procedure” and “Professional Practice”. Within each section, there are several criteria that candidates will be evaluated against. Some criteria are “critical” – while others are not. A “critical” criterion is fundamental to performing the skill adequately and safely. In both the Procedure and Professional Practice sections, the critical criteria for each skill are indicated by a block “dot” between the “A” and “U” columns.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 14 (Dots) Critical Criterion Candidates will be awarded either an “A” (acceptable) or “U” (unacceptable) for each criterion To successfully pass a skill, candidates must be awarded an “A” grade for every critical criterion, on the first OR second attempt of the skill. If both attempts have one or more critical criteria with a “U” grade, it will result in failure of the skill. • It is the candidate’s responsibility to advise their Evaluator when they are finished their skill and wish to be evaluated OR if they would like to stop their procedure and attempt the skill for a second time, provided time is remaining. • Candidates will NOT be told if they passed or failed a skill; they must reflect on their own performance and product and must make their own decision about attempting the skill for a second time. Examples of Assessment – First and Second Attempt • 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, an “A” grade will be awarded. If there are no other critical errors on the second attempt, the candidate will pass their skill. • 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 their first attempt, the candidate will also be awarded a “U” grade for the critical criterion “Performs the skill safely and with care”. On the second attempt, if the error is corrected and an “A” grade is awarded for the criterion “Places clamp in the mouth with safety floss attached” an “A” grade will also e awarded for “Performs the skill safely and with care”. If there are no other critical errors on the second attempt, the candidate will pass their skill. To review the complete evaluation forms for each skill, please see Appendix D: Evaluation Forms

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 15 Skill Evaluation Flow 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 permitted to read the prescription. Candidates will be able to refer to the product directions at any time during the performance of the skill. Candidates who are ready to proceed before the five (5) 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. Candidates will be asked to leave the operatory/station to allow the Evaluators to evaluate their product. Candidates may stop their first attempt at any point and declare to their evaluator they wish to start a second attempt, if allotted time remains. If the candidate wishes to attempt the skill a second time, the candidate MUST informtheir evaluator BEFORE they leave the operatory. Candidates who do not request a second attempt before leaving the operatory will not be permitted to return to the skill , even if time remained. If the candidate has fully completed the application and requests their placement be evaluated 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 start of the second attempt. This process 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.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 16 Exposing Digital Radiographic Images – Direct (sensor) and Indirect (PSP) All sites use a combination thyroid collar/lead apron. The thyroid collar/lead apron must be placed prior to any exposures. Sites will either use indirect imaging with phosphor storage plates (PSPs) or direct digital imaging with sensors. Candidates must be familiar with both types of imaging systems. Radiographic images will be exposed on a Dexter using RINN XCP/XCPD equipment and using the paralleling technique for periapical images and RINN XCP/XCPD bitewing equipment or tab for the bitewing. Information specific to opening and closing the Dexter and activating the exposure button will be provided. Candidates will be shown how to load the PSPs into the vite blocks or the sensors into the sensor holders. Candidates will also be provided with photographs showing the XCP/XCPD assembly for each quadrant and bitewing exposures. Candidates must assemble their own RINN XCP/XCPD paralleling equipment and place the PSPs /sensors into the biteblock/sensor holder for the periapical and bitewing images. If the candidate chooses to use the tab instead of the RINN XCP/XCPD bitewing holder for the bitewing, they must place their own bitewing tab on the plate/sensor. For sites using indirect imaging, three (3) size 2 PSPs and one (1) size 1 PSP will be provided for each attempt. For sites using direct digital imaging, size 1 and 2 sensors will be provided for each attempt. Exposed PSP 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/or mount the candidate’s images. Images will be mounted on the computer monitor by NDAEB personnel the way they were exposed. Once the images are mounted, candidates will have an opportunity to view their images. Viewing of images is part of the timed procedure. For more information on direct and indirect digital imaging, please refer to Appendix E: Resources and References. Obtaining Impressions for Study Models The impression trays provided have been fitted for each manikin. There is no requirement to try in the impression trays. Candidates will have unlimited mixing opportunities within the allotted time. Once the tray enters the manikin’s mouth, it is considered an attempt. Applying and Removing Dental Dam The clamp provided has been fitted for each manikin. There is no requirement to try in the clamp. Dental dam punching stamps/templates will not be provided. Pens/pencils cannot be used to mark the dam before punching. Candidates may choose to use the one or two step method to place your clamp and dam, provided you meet all criteria.

National Dental Assisting Examining Board © 2001 – 2026 National Dental Assisting Examining Board 17 You may request additional dental dams as required. Selective Coronal Polishing Lead pencil will be used to create the stain on the manikin’s teeth. The stain will match the prescription. The handpiece must be running while you remove the stain. Do not wipe the stain with gauze of tissue. Applying and Removing Matrix Band and Wedge The retainer, matrix band and wedge provided and has been fitted for each manikin. There is no requirement to try in the matrix band and wedge. Candidates may request additional matrix bands/wedges as required. Applying Anti-Cariogenic Agent - Topical Fluoride Gel (APF) The anti-cariogenic gel will be applied to the teeth using the tray method. The fluoride trays provided have been fitted for each manikin. There is no requirement to try in the fluoride trays. 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. Candidates may not isolate using dental dam. Candidates may choose to loosen cotton rolls OR cotton rolls in the isolator OR both. Two sets of each will be provided. Although the manikin does not salivate, candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of adequate isolation and re-isolation without saliva contamination. The plastic teeth in the manikin will show no evidence of being etched. Applying Topical Anesthetic On the manikin, the mucobuccal 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. Infection Prevention and Control 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).

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