Transcript
1
Examination Year 2016
SOUTHERN
REGIONAL
TESTING
AGENCY
2016 DENTAL HYGIENE CANDIDATE
GUIDE
2
Southern Regional Testing Agency, Inc.
The Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA) is a nonprofit corporation committed to being a
leader at the national level in examination development and administration by providing the
following:
Uniformly administered examinations and confidential results that are consistently
reliable for use by licensing authorities to make initial licensure decisions Protection of the public
Appropriate care to board patients in the examination process
The most technologically advanced examination for its member states and
participating testing sites
Valid examinations in the most candidate-friendly environment possible, while
producing the next generation of our colleagues in the dental and dental hygiene
professions
Current Participating States of Southern Regional Testing Agency
Alabama South Carolina Virginia
Arkansas Tennessee West Virginia
For the most up-to-date, accurate information on licensure acceptance, candidates should contact
the state boards of dentistry directly. At the time of printing, 31 states accepted SRTA results for
initial licensure.
Examination purpose
The current year SRTA Examination was developed, administered, and reviewed in accordance with
guidelines from the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Dental
Examiners (AADE), the American Psychological Association (APA), the American Educational
Research Association, and the National Council on Measurement in Education. In addition, the
examination has undergone stringent psychometric review and input from independent firm Alpine
Testing Solutions. Former candidates and dental hygiene program faculty provide input to address
concerns of students and candidates. SRTA collects input from practicing dental hygienists
nationwide every five years through a Task Analysis Survey, which is the basis for all decisions
regarding content. SRTA develops the examination to provide a reliable clinical assessment for use
by state boards in making valid licensing decisions.
© Copyright 2016 Southern Regional Testing Agency, Inc.
All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be used or reproduced in any form
without express prior written permission of the Southern Regional Testing Agency, Inc.
Southern Regional Testing Agency, Inc.
4698 Honeygrove Road, Suite 2
Virginia Beach, VA 23455-5934
(757) 318-9082
3
LIST OF STATES THAT ACCEPT THE SRTA DENTAL HYGIENE EXAMINATION FOR LICENSURE
1. Alabama 2. Arkansas 3. Colorado 4. Connecticut 5. Hawaii 6. Illinois 7. Indiana 8. Kansas 9. Kentucky
10. Maine 11. Massachusetts 12. Missouri 13. Montana 14. Nebraska 15. New Hampshire 16. New Mexico
17. North Dakota 18. Ohio 19. Oregon 20. Pennsylvania 21. Rhode Island 22. South Carolina 23. Tennessee 24. Texas 25. Utah 26. Vermont 27. Virginia 28. Washington 29. West Virginia 30. Wisconsin 31. Wyoming
*Students are strongly suggested to verify the licensure acceptance with the individual state board in which they will be seeking a license within prior to registering for any examination.
4
I. GENERAL INFORMATION ...................... 6 A. Application ......................................................... 6 B. Applying for reexamination .................................. 7 C. Examination results ............................................ 7 D. SRTA personnel .................................................. 8
1. Clinic Floor Manager (CFM) .............................. 8 2. Dental Hygiene Administrator (DHA) ................ 8 3. Scoring Area Coordinator (SAC) ....................... 8 4. Examiners ...................................................... 8
E. Sites and fees ..................................................... 9 1. Site limitations .............................................. 10 2. Examination site contact information .............. 11
II. PRE-EXAMINATION PREPARATION .... 14 A. Patient eligibility ............................................... 14 B. Case selection .................................................. 15 C. Calculus requirements ....................................... 16 D. Radiographs ..................................................... 17 E. Required materials and instruments ................... 19 F. Forms to present at patient check-in .................. 21
1. Medical History Form .................................... 21 2. Dental Charting Form .................................... 24 3. Dental Hygiene Procedure Form..................... 25
G. Forms to present at registration ........................ 27 1. Candidate identification ................................. 27 2. Postoperative Care Agreement ....................... 27 3. Patient Disclaimer, Consent, and Release Form28 4. Incident Disclaimer ....................................... 29 5. Patient Medical History .................................. 30 6. Anesthesia Credentials .................................. 30 7. On-line Orientation affidavit ........................... 30
H. Shared patients ................................................ 30
I. Local anesthesia ............................................... 30 J. Infection control ............................................... 32 K. Patient communication ...................................... 32
III. EXAMINATION CONTENT .................... 34 A. Periodontal measurement exercise ..................... 35 B. Calculus detection exercise ................................ 37 C. Partial prophylaxis exercise ................................ 39 D. Tissue management .......................................... 39
1. Minor tissue trauma ....................................... 39 2. Major tissue trauma ....................................... 40
E. Anesthesia record ............................................. 40 IV. CLINIC SCHEDULE............................... 42 V. DAY OF EXAM ...................................... 42
A. Overview .......................................................... 42 B. Registration/examination briefing ....................... 42 C. Administration................................................... 43
1. Mass check-in and evaluation ......................... 43 2. Scoring area check-in and evaluation .............. 43
D. Cubicle set-up ................................................... 44 E. Patient check-in ................................................ 45 F. Clinical treatment time ...................................... 48 G. Final evaluation ................................................. 49 H. Clean-up ........................................................... 49 I. Surveys ............................................................ 49
VI. POINTS SYSTEM .................................. 52 VII. APPEALS .............................................. 54 VIII. CANDIDATE POLICIES ........................ 58 IX. STATE BOARDS OF DENTISTRY .......... 66 X. FAQ’S ................................................... 68 XI. CHECKLIST .......................................... 71
5
GENERAL INFORMATION
6
I. GENERAL INFORMATION Welcome to the Southern Regional Testing
Agency’s (SRTA) Dental Hygiene Examination.
SRTA provides this Candidate Guide so that candidates may become familiar with the
procedures and policies for the SRTA Dental Hygiene Examination. This manual covers
administrative procedures, including
application instructions, testing site information, fees, and schedules plus all
examination content and scoring criteria. Bring this guide to the examination, and
keep it available in the cubicle for easy reference. A thorough understanding of this
manual is crucial to succeed on the
examination.
Examiners for SRTA evaluate candidates on
the following skills.
Presenting an eligible patient
Presenting diagnostic-quality
radiographs
Choosing a case that meets all criteria
Detecting and removing calculus,
plaque, and stain
Taking accurate periodontal pocket
depth measurements
Managing tissue appropriately
Documenting anesthesia
appropriately
SRTA uses a triple-blind scoring system,
which requires three examiners to perform
independent evaluations of the candidate’s
performance in meeting specific criteria for all
areas of the examination. Points are awarded
on a 100-point scale. Candidates must earn
75 or more points to pass.
A. Application SRTA uses an online application for the
candidate’s convenience. To apply online, go
to http://www.srta.org/ and click the “Apply Online” link to connect to a secure website
that requires the candidate's contact and school information. Gathering all required
items prior to starting the online application will save significant time.
Applicants will need:
A photograph: A recent, close-up digital headshot is required for the online
application. The candidate should be clearly distinguishable, as the photo will be printed at
1½” x 1 ½” on the candidate admission card.
Photos must be in JPG, GIF, or PNG format. Photographs must not have written
information on them, such as driver’s license or school identification, etc.
CPR certification: A digital copy of current and valid CPR certification, which includes the
renewal date, is required. Valid certification is defined as a hands-on training program that
provides an assessment of cognitive skills and skills acquired via classroom or web-based
training. A minimum of Basic CPR skills
certification is required. Classes provided by Internet-only instruction are not acceptable.
Web-based didactic training must also include a hands-on component.
A diploma: Candidates must provide a copy
of their diploma from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program in order for the
profile to be valid. Upload the diploma into the profile, fax it to the office, or email it to
dentalhygiene@srta.org. If the candidate has
not graduated, the program director, dean, or
QUICK TIP APPLY ONLINE AT
www.srta.org/apply
Gather these items prior to
beginning the online application:
• Recent photograph (head shot;
jpg, gif, or png)
• CPR certification (BLS or
higher)
• Diploma or letter from program
director
• Visa or MasterCard or Veterans
Administration forms*
The online application portal allows
only one file to be uploaded for each
item listed above.
*Contact the SRTA office if using
veteran’s benefits.
7
school must provide a letter stating that the
candidate is academically in good standing and may sit for the exam. Upload this
document into the profile, fax, or email it to the SRTA office. If the diploma is in any
other language, it must be translated into
English prior to submission.
Payment: SRTA accepts Visa and MasterCard only. SRTA also accepts debit cards if
allowable by the issuing bank and if they bear the Visa or MasterCard logo. No international
credit/debit cards are accepted. The total
payment includes the facility fee (site specific, see Section I-E of this manual) and the
examination fee. All payments are drawn immediately and must be paid in full,
including the application fee and facility fee.
Split payments are prohibited.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has approved the cost of the SRTA Dental
Hygiene Examination for reimbursement. Contact the regional Veterans Affairs/Veterans
Education Office to obtain the proper forms.
After the candidate has completed the
application profile, SRTA staff will verify the profile:
After the candidate uploads or enters all
required information and the information
is received by the SRTA office, the staff will verify the profile. Staff members
cannot verify any profile without a photo or CPR card. Please allow up to three
days for verification. Candidates
cannot apply for the examination until the SRTA staff completes the verification
process. With the exception of password changes, all profile changes will require
the profile to be re-verified by SRTA staff. Candidates may then apply for the
examination: Once all profile
information has been uploaded and
verified, a confirmation email will be sent to the email address provided by the
candidate. To ensure you receive all necessary emails, please be sure to add
any @srta.org email addresses to your
address book or contact list. Candidates may apply for examinations by simply
clicking “Apply” at the top of the screen to begin the registration process.
Candidates must download
documents: Candidates should visit the
“Documents” portion of the secure site to
download and complete all required documents for the examination.
Instructions for each document are on the website. Some documents must be
completed and returned to the SRTA
office prior to the examination. Candidates must watch the online
orientation slides and complete an
affidavit attesting that the slides have been viewed.
B. Applying for reexamination For candidates who need to retake the
examination, it is not necessary to create another profile. Simply log back into your
profile at http://srta.brighttrac.org, and click “Apply” at the top of the screen. Follow
instructions on the screen.
Please call the SRTA office for any further
assistance.
C. Examination results Candidates will receive notification via email
when their scores are available for viewing online. Results are usually available online
within three business days after the
examination. Log into the SRTA website using the password and username created
during the online registration process. Candidates who are unsuccessful can view the
details of their evaluation online. Details are not available for those who pass the
examination.
Please do not call the SRTA office for test
scores or information concerning when scores will be released.
Due to our confidentiality policy, SRTA staff and examiners will not discuss candidate
concerns and questions with a candidate’s spouse, parent, friend, faculty member, or
family member. SRTA is not responsible for items lost or delayed by the United States
Postal Service.
The board of dentistry where a candidate
wishes to practice will determine whether SRTA scores are accepted for licensure. SRTA
supplies the examination results to its
participating state boards but does not analyze or interpret the records and makes no
8
recommendations on how the state uses the
scores.
The SRTA office automatically sends the examination record of each candidate to the
secretaries of the state boards of dentistry of
Arkansas, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Each
current graduate’s university also receives his/her examination record.
Some state boards of dentistry may require a
notarized copy of the final report, which SRTA
will provide for a nominal fee. Please contact the SRTA office to request this additional
service.
Candidates should contact the individual state
board of dentistry where they wish to obtain a license to verify acceptance of SRTA scores
and to learn of other state-specific requirements.
Candidates are required to provide proof of
graduation within 90 days after their
graduation date. Alternatively, the dental
hygiene school’s dean/program director may
submit a list of students who graduated within
that timeframe. For candidates who have not
formally graduated, graduation requirements
must be completed within 12 months of their
first examination date. SRTA will notify each
of the individual state boards that scores are
invalid if the required diploma or letter from
the dean/program director is not
received. The individual state boards of
dentistry determine the acceptance of
nullified/invalid results. SRTA’s corporate
documents mandate that we cannot grant
extensions to these graduation requirements.
D. SRTA personnel These SRTA representatives are at the site
throughout the examination day:
1. Clinic Floor Manager (CFM) A dentist who works with candidates and
manages activities in the clinic during the
examination
2. Dental Hygiene Administrator
(DHA) A dental hygienist or member of SRTA
staff who serves as a liaison between the
candidates and the examiners, conducts
registration, examination briefing, and
assists candidates in the clinic.
3. Scoring Area Coordinator (SAC) A dental hygienist who is the team
leader of the clinical examiners.
4. Examiners Dental hygienists and dentists who are
calibrated and trained by SRTA to
conduct clinical examinations.
Candidates interact directly with the CFM and
the DHA during the course of the
examination. Candidates do not interact with
the SAC or the examiners.
9
E. Sites and fees
Site Location Examination Date Application
Deadline
West Virginia University: Morgantown, WV March 19, 2016 February 5, 2016
Virginia Commonwealth University:
Richmond, VA April 1-2, 2016 February 19, 2016
University of Tennessee: Memphis, TN April 8-9, 2016 February 26, 2016
Greenville Technical College: Greenville, SC April 8-9, 2016 February 26, 2016
BridgeValley Community & Technical College:
Montgomery, WV April 15, 2016 March 4, 2016
University of Louisville: Louisville, KY April 15-16, 2016 March 4, 2016
Bluegrass Community & Technical College:
Lexington, KY April 22-23, 2016 March 11, 2016
Western Kentucky University: Bowling Green,
KY April 22-23, 2016 March 11, 2016
Midlands Technical College: West Columbia,
SC April 29-30, 2016 March 18, 2016
Ozarks Technical College: Springfield, MO April 29-30, 2016 March 18, 2016
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences:
Little Rock, AR May 6-7, 2016 March 25, 2016
Wytheville Community College: Wytheville,
VA May 6-7, 2016 March 25, 2016
Old Dominion University: Norfolk, VA May 13-14, 2016 April 1, 2016
Tennessee State University: Nashville, TN May 13-14, 2016 April 1, 2016
Virginia Commonwealth University:
Richmond, VA May 20-21, 2016 April 8, 2016
University of Arkansas at Fort Smith: Fort
Smith, AR May 27-28, 2016 April 15, 2016
University of Tennessee: Memphis, TN June 3-4, 2016 April 22, 2016
Midlands Technical College: West Columbia,
SC June 10, 2016 April 29, 2016
Remington College: Nashville, TN July 22-23, 2016 June 10, 2016
Concorde Career College: Memphis, TN September 9-10, 2016 July 29, 2016
Tennessee State University: Nashville, TN October 14-15, 2016 September 2, 2016
Remington College: Nashville, TN December 9-10, 2016 October 28, 2016
*Exam dates and locations may be subject to change. Please visit www.srta.org to see the most current examination
schedule.
10
Institution Facility
Fee
Calculate Fees
Bluegrass Community &
Technical College
$150 Examination fee
(or reexamination fee) $ 1000
BridgeValley Community &
Technical College
$125 *Facility fee $
Concorde Career College $150 **Late registration fee
(if applicable) $ 100
Greenville Technical College $125 Total
(personal checks are not accepted) $
Midlands Technical College $125 1. Site limitations
Due to limitations at some test sites, SRTA
cannot always accommodate the number of
candidates who wish to examine at a particular
site. Exam assignments begin with the Friday
sessions. Depending on the number of
candidates registered for a specific exam site,
Saturday examination sessions may be held or
may be cancelled.
SRTA assigns cubicles on a first come, first
served basis with the examination site’s current
students given first priority. Therefore, a site
may become full prior to the application
deadline.
SRTA cannot guarantee placement at any
examination site. Applying early may increase
the probability of placement in the preferred
site. Cubicles may become available after the
deadline date if other candidates withdraw or
become ineligible. Applicants may contact the
SRTA office after a deadline date has passed to
find out if any openings are available.
SRTA reserves the right to cancel an
examination if an insufficient number of
candidates apply for that date and examination
site.
Old Dominion University $135
Ozarks Technical College $125
Remington College $150
Tennessee State University $175
University of Arkansas - Fort
Smith
$135
University of Arkansas for
Medical Sciences
$135
University of Louisville $250
University of Tennessee $150
Virginia Commonwealth
University
$125
West Virginia University $125
Western Kentucky University $125
Wytheville Community College $100
*Facility fees are subject to change at the discretion of the exam site. The facility fee you are charged when you submit
your payment is the final fee.
**Late registrations fees will apply to candidates who apply/register after the published registration deadline.
11
2. Examination site contact information
Arkansas
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith
5210 Grand Avenue
Fort Smith, AR 72913
(479) 788-7400
http://www.uafs.edu/academics/dental-hygiene
Clinic opens at 6:15 a.m. Friday and Saturday
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
4301 W. Markham Street, #609
Little Rock, AR 72205
(501) 686-5733 or (501) 686-5734
www.uams.edu/chrp/dentalhygiene
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Tennessee
Concorde Career College
5100 Poplar Avenue
Suite 132
Memphis, TN 38137
(901) 476-1358
http://www.concorde.edu/programs/dental-
hygiene
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Remington College
441 Donelson Pike
Nashville, TN 37214
(615) 493-9356
http://www.remingtoncollege.edu/dental-
hygiene-schools/
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Tennessee State University
3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, TN 37209
(615) 963-5801
http://www.tnstate.edu/dentalhygiene/
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
University of Tennessee
College of Dentistry
875 Union Avenue
Memphis, TN 38163
(901) 448-6246
http://www.uthsc.edu/allied/dh/
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Kentucky
Bluegrass Community & Technical College
470 Cooper Drive
250 Oswald Building
Lexington KY 40506-0235
(859) 246-6234
http://www.bluegrass.kctcs.edu/ah/dental_hygiene
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
University of Louisville School of Dentistry
501 South Preston
Louisville, KY 40292
(502) 852-5128
http://louisville.edu/dental/hygiene
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Western Kentucky University
1906 College Heights Boulevard, #11032
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 745-2427
http://www.wku.edu/dentalhygiene/
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
12
2. Examination site contact information
West Virginia
BridgeValley Community & Technical College
604 Davis Hall
Montgomery, WV 25136
(304) 442-3345
http://www.bridgevalley.edu/dental-hygiene
Clinic opens at 6:15 a.m. Friday and Saturday
West Virginia University School of Dentistry
One Medical Center Drive
Morgantown, WV 26506-9401
(304) 293-7307
www.hsc.wvu.edu/sod/Departments
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Missouri
Ozarks Technical Community College
1001 E. Chestnut Expressway
Springfield, MO 65802
(417) 447-8829
http://www.otc.edu/allied health
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
South Carolina
Greenville Technical College
50 Skyview Drive
Greenville, SC 29606-5616
(864) 250-8588
http://www.gvltec.edu/dental
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Midlands Technical College
1260 Lexington Drive
West Columbia, SC 29170
(803) 822-3451
http://www.midlandstech.edu
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Virginia
Old Dominion University
4608 Hampton Boulevard
1101 C Health Sciences Building
Norfolk, VA 23529-0499
(757) 683-5241
http://hs.odu.edu/dental/
Clinic opens at 6:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Virginia Commonwealth University
School of Dentistry
520 North 12th Street
Richmond, VA 23298-0566
(804) 828-7978
http://www.dentistry.vcu.edu/prospective/dh/
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Wytheville Community College
1000 E. Main Street
Wytheville, VA 24382
(276) 223-4840
http://www.wcc.vccs.edu
Clinic opens at 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday
13
PRE-EXAMINATION PREPARATION
14
II. PRE-EXAMINATION PREPARATION
A. Patient eligibility Selecting an eligible patient is essential to
successfully completing this examination.
Candidates who present ineligible
patients will fail the examination.
Patient selection and management is an
important part of the examination and should
be completed independently, without the help
or assistance of faculty or colleagues.
Candidates must carefully assess any physical
or medical conditions that may be affected by
the examination process. Patients should be
informed that the time commitment is
approximately five hours.
Before the date of the examination, a
candidate must:
Identify a patient who meets all eligibility
requirements.
Select a case (a selection of the chosen
patient’s teeth that will be treated and
evaluated during the exam) that meets all
requirements.
Obtain radiographs of the patient to
present on the day of the examination.
To be considered eligible, a patient must meet all of these criteria:
Be at least 18 years of age
Be presented with a case that meets all requirements
Be presented with required radiographs
Have an acceptable health history, including a blood pressure within the guidelines of this
examination
Have a physician’s written clearance that is required for certain medical conditions
A patient is considered ineligible if he/she meets any of these criteria:
Is a dentist, dental hygienist, dental student, or dental hygiene student
Is currently taking or has a history of taking injectable bisphosphonate therapy
Is in the first or third trimester of pregnancy
Has an oral herpetic lesion (The eligibility of a patient with this condition may be left to the
discretion of the Clinic Floor Manager.)
Is presented with no radiographs or with radiographs that are of such poor quality that
examiners cannot determine that the images belong to the patient
Is presented with a case that does not meet the required criteria
15
B. Case selection The presentation of a full quadrant and
additional posterior teeth for the SRTA
Examination is known as the “case.” The case
selection consists of one full quadrant with
at least six teeth plus two posterior teeth
from a second quadrant.
There must be at least two natural, permanent
molars in the selection. One of the six teeth in
the full quadrant and one of the two teeth in the
second quadrant must be molars. One of the
molars must have both a mesial and a distal
contact with adjacent teeth.
OPTIONAL: If the required quadrant and
additional posterior teeth do not have sufficient
moderate to heavy calculus to meet the criteria,
two additional posterior teeth may be included
in the case. These posterior teeth must be
located in the same quadrant as the required
additional posterior teeth.
At least two weeks prior to the
examination, candidates must enter their case
selection into SRTA’s computer scoring system
by logging into the candidate profile on the
SRTA website, https://srta.brighttrac.com. Prior
to the day of the examination, candidates also
enter their case selections in Section 3 of the
Procedure Form (the form used to document
their work during the examination). The DHA
will verify the case selection and can help
candidates make necessary adjustments or
changes to the case the day of the examination.
Third molars: If the selected quadrant has a
third molar, the candidate must choose whether
to include it as part of the case to be treated. All
other teeth in the quadrant and/or the additional
teeth must be cleaned completely and will be
evaluated for remaining calculus, plaque, and
stain.
Primary teeth and restored implants located in
the selection will not count toward any calculus
requirements nor will they count as natural,
permanent molars for purposes of meeting the
molar requirements. They can, however, count
toward the six teeth in the quadrant.
QUICK TIP The case selection must include:
A full quadrant with at least six teeth,
plus two posterior teeth from a second
quadrant
At least two natural, permanent molars
o One must be located in the
selected quadrant.
o One must be located in the second
quadrant.
o One molar must have both a mesial
and a distal contacting tooth.
Must be free of excessive soft debris
o A patient presented with
excessive soft debris will be
required to brush thoroughly after
patient treatment time starts.
o Late check-in will be performed
after all debris is removed.
QUICK TIP A case selection including the following is strongly discouraged:
Class III furcation or mobility Retained primary teeth
Advanced periodontal disease Gross caries
Orthodontic brackets or bonded retainer Faulty restorations
Implants included in the treatment selection Extensive full or partial veneers
Partially erupted third molars Multiple localized probing depths in
excess of 6 mm
16
Examiners evaluate the case during check-in to
determine that it meets all requirements. During
clinical treatment time, candidates remove all
calculus on all surfaces within the case
selection. During final evaluation, examiners
evaluate all surfaces of all teeth in the case to
verify that the candidate removed all calculus
while protecting the surrounding tissue.
C. Calculus requirements The case must include at least 12 surfaces of
qualifying subgingival calculus distributed as
follows:
At least eight of the 12 surfaces must be on
premolars and molars.
At least five of those eight must be on
mesial or distal surfaces of premolars and
molars.
At least three of the five mesial or distal
surfaces must be on molars.
The remaining four of the 12 surfaces with
qualifying calculus may be on any tooth but
must be subgingival.
Qualifying subgingival deposits must be
apical to the gingival margin.
Qualifying surfaces may occur with or
without associated supragingival deposits.
Detect mesial and distal deposits by
exploring from facial and/or lingual surfaces.
Primary teeth and restored implants located in
the selection will not count toward any calculus
requirements.
To maximize the number of points that can be earned, examiners must be able to verify the
presence of at least 12 tooth surfaces with deposits of heavy to moderate subgingival
calculus within the candidate’s case selection.
12 surfaces with heavy to moderate subgingival
calculus
8 of the 12
on molars and premolars
5 of these 8 on mesials or distals
3 of these 5 on mesial or distals of
molars
4 of the 12
on any tooth in the case selection: candidate’s
choice
17
D. Radiographs The candidate must present diagnostic-quality
radiographs for the chosen patient in order for
the patient to be deemed eligible. The term
“diagnostic quality” means that the images
of the teeth in the case selection must be have
sufficient contrast and density with adequate
visual details for a dentist to make an accurate
diagnosis of dental diseases and/or
abnormalities. Patients presented without
radiographs or with radiographs that are
of such poor quality that examiners cannot
determine if they belong to the patient
will be dismissed, and the candidate will
fail.
The candidate should also include a written
description of any restorative and/or surgical
treatment undergone by the patient since the
radiographs were taken (if applicable) in the
“Candidate Comments to Examiners” section of
the Dental Charting Form.
Candidates will not be permitted to take
radiographs at the exam sites, per the ruling of
the National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurement (NCRP) in Report #145, which
states:
“Administrative use of radiation to provide
information not related to the health of the
patient shall not be permitted. Students shall
not be permitted to perform radiographic
exposure of patients, other students or
volunteers solely for purposes of their
education or Licensure.”
Radiographs must meet these criteria:
Candidates must present either a full-mouth
series and bitewings or a panoramic
radiograph and bitewings.
If presenting a full-mouth series instead of a
panoramic, present 16-20 images, including
two or four bitewings, depending on the
number needed to show the mesial and
distal surfaces, DEJ, and alveolar crestal
bone of all posterior teeth.
Periapical and panoramic images must be
current within three years.
Bitewings must be current within one year.
They may be vertical or horizontal.
The radiographs may or may not have been
exposed by the candidate.
QUICK TIP CHARACTERISTICS OF QUALIFYING CALCULUS
• Explorer-detectable moderate to heavy subgingival calculus
• Distinct and easily detected with an 11/12 explorer as it passes over the
calculus
• Must be apical to the gingival margin
• May occur with or without supragingival deposits
• A definite jump or bump detected by the explorer with one or two strokes
• Binds the explorer or causes a definite catch
• Ledges or ring formation
• Spiny or nodular formations
• Significant enough in quantity to be readily discernible or detectable
• Mesial and distal deposits are detectable from lingual and/or facial
18
Duplicates, conventional, or digital
radiographs are acceptable.
Evidence of calculus on radiographs is not
necessary for case presentation.
Convexity of dimple on conventional
radiographs must face the front of the
mount.
Teeth must appear in Universal Notation
System (1-32).
Candidate number, date films were
exposed and patient’s name must be
on the mount or digital printout.
Do not use a mount on which the
candidate’s name or the name of the school
is visible.
If the candidate mounts the radiographs
incorrectly or there is incomplete
information on the mount, the candidate will
be notified and must correct the error.
Although a full-mouth series with bitewings or
panoramic radiograph plus bitewings must be
presented, only the images of the selected
quadrant and additional teeth selected by
the candidate will be evaluated for diagnostic
quality for purposes of earning points for
radiographs.
Exemptions: The following conditions are
exempt from the diagnostic standards:
Unerupted, partially erupted, and super-
erupted third molars (Examiners consider a
third molar erupted if the entire occlusal
plane of the third molar is in alignment with
the occlusal plane of the rest of the teeth.)
A third molar with tissue covering any part
of the occlusal surface of the tooth, even
though the tooth is in the occlusal plane
QUICK TIP If radiographs are missing or are of such poor quality that examiners
cannot determine that they belong to the patient, the patient will be
dismissed as ineligible and the candidate will fail.
The term “diagnostic quality” means that the images have sufficient
contrast and density with adequate visual details for a dentist to
accurately diagnose dental diseases or abnormalities.
19
E. Required materials and instruments
Candidates may use instruments of their
choice for the partial prophylaxis exercise.
However, for the calculus detection and
periodontal measurement exercises, all
candidates and examiners must use the same
evaluation instruments so that the
examination is standardized for all candidates
at all testing sites. Examiners are
standardized using the 11/12 explorer and the
UNC probe. Therefore, candidates must use
these instruments during the calculus
detection and periodontal measurement
exercises. Presenting instruments other than
those recommended will cause a delay in the
check-in process. There are two required
instruments for the SRTA Examination.
1. Explorer: Only an 11/12 explorer
(e.g. the ODU or EXD 11/12) can be used
by candidates and examiners for calculus
detection.
2. Probe: Only a probe marked with 1 mm
increments (e.g. the UNC probe) can be
used for the probing exercise. SRTA
prefers probes that have colored
markings such as yellow/black,
yellow/bare metal, yellow/white plastic, or
any other combination of colored
markings. This improves accuracy of
measurements by both the candidates
and examiners.
Candidates are required to bring their own
instruments to the clinical examination. Some
materials and equipment may be available at
the testing site. An exam site letter will be
available under the “Documents” tab on your
profile that explains what materials will and
will not be available at that testing site.
Candidates should contact the testing site
directly to determine whether the equipment
available onsite is compatible with the
candidates’ equipment. At check-in, the tray
must be free of all instruments except
these:
1. Mouth mirror (can be single- or
double-sided)
2. 11/12 explorer (such as ODU or EXD)
3. Probe marked in 1 mm increments
(UNC probe); SRTA prefers probes
that are banded with yellow/black or
other colors for more accurate
measurement.
Figure 2: UNC probe
Figure 1: 11/12 explorer
20
REQUIRED MATERIALS AND INSTRUMENTS
Paperwork
• Completed Patient Medical History Form
• Completed Dental Charting Form Comments to examiners
• Required radiographs of the patient
• Dental Hygiene Procedure Form, with the following information completed: Candidate information
Medical alerts Case selection, i.e., quadrant and additional teeth selected for the partial prophylaxis
o These must be the same as entered into the website but can be adjusted or changed
by the DHA on the day of the exam, if needed Anesthesia record
Instruments
• 11/12 explorer for calculus detection
• Yellow/black or other color-coded probe for periodontal assessment with markings of 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10 (UNC probe). The probe may be single or double-ended. When using a
double-ended probe, the unused end must be covered with autoclave tape. • Reflective front surface mirror, which may be one- or two-sided
• Air-water syringe tip attached to the unit
• Saliva ejector • Note: Air-abrasive instruments are not permitted.
Other Materials
• 2” x 2” gauze squares
• Clipboard • Two sharpened #2 lead pencils (not mechanical) covered with a barrier of plastic film or
aluminum foil • A blood pressure measuring device or access to such a device
• Syringes and supplies for local anesthesia administration, if applicable. Testing sites provide
cartridges of anesthetic. • A hard-surface sealed container, e.g., pencil box or cassette, to transport the instruments to the
designated area for late check-in, if needed • Sterile instruments (choice of the candidate)
• Ultrasonic/sonic scaling instruments. It is the candidate's responsibility to provide the equipment of choice. At some schools, ultrasonic units may be available for rent. Contact the school
directly to see if this service is available. SRTA does not assist in equipment rental issues, nor
does SRTA know which schools provide rental units. • A hand-piece and prophy angle for polishing that are compatible with the examination site’s
equipment
21
F. Forms to present at patient check-in
After the candidate’s application is completed
and verified, he/she should download and
print all forms from the candidate profile on
the SRTA website, www.srta.org. Candidates
may use copies of forms for pre-screening
patients and to aid in patient preparation.
If the candidate brings a qualified practitioner
to administer anesthesia during the
examination, the practitioner must be
prepared to present credentials verifying
his/her qualification to administer anesthesia.
Candidates may submit credentials for
qualified practitioners to the SRTA office prior
to the examination day.
If errors are made on forms in ink during the
examination, candidates should make a single
line striking through the incorrect entry, make
the correction, and initial the correction using
their candidate number.
1. Medical History Form
This form will be reviewed by the CFM during
registration and set-up on the day of the
examination.
The majority of the information on the
Medical History Form (all questions except
Question 12 and the blood pressure area)
should be completed by the patient in ink
before the examination day (but no more
than 30 days before the exam). Ensure
that the patient signs and dates the form in
the appropriate blanks on pages 1 and 2.
On the day of the examination, have the
patient complete Question 12.
Take the patient’s blood pressure and enter it
into the “Blood Pressure - Required - Must Be
Taken Day of Examination” area during set-up
time. Do not complete this section until the
patient is seated in the cubicle because the
examiners need to know the patient’s blood
pressure at the time of treatment. Note that
the patient’s blood pressure on the day of the
exam must be below 160 (systolic)
and/or 100 (diastolic).
The Medical History Form must be
available during set-up time so the CFM
can verify that:
The patient's health status is
acceptable for treatment.
All sections are complete.
When required, a physician’s
statement is provided. The patient can have local anesthesia
administered, if needed.
After reviewing the form during set-up time,
the CFM will enter his/her PIN in the
appropriate area to indicate that he/she has
reviewed the form and the patient has been
approved to participate in the examination.
Do not administer any anesthesia until the
CFM has entered his/her PIN on both the
Medical History and Procedure Forms.
All questions on the Medical History Form
must be answered “Yes” or “No” by the
patient. If the patient responds “Yes” to any
question on the Medical History Form, check
“Yes” in Section 2 of the Dental Hygiene
Procedure Form (Medical Alert area).
If the patient responds “Yes” to any of the
following questions, SRTA requires a written
Forms Presented at Patient
Check-In
Patient Medical History Form
(and physician’s clearance
letter, when required)
Dental Charting Form
(completed prior to
examination day)
Dental Hygiene Procedure
Form
QUICK TIP If the patient answers “Yes” to any of
the questions on this form, check “Yes”
in the Medical Alert box (Section 2) of
the Dental Hygiene Procedure Form.
22
statement from a physician indicating that it is
safe for the patient to participate.
The candidate must present a
physician’s written clearance during
cubicle set-up (along with the Medical
History Form) for any patient with a
“Yes” to the specific questions listed
above. If the required physician’s statement
is not provided, the patient will be dismissed
as ineligible and the candidate will fail the
examination.
An acceptable medical clearance letter
includes the following elements:
A statement from a physician written on
his/her letterhead or prescription pad
dated within 30 days of the examination A positive statement of how the patient
should be managed
The exact procedure that is to be
performed (i.e., dental prophylaxis)
The physician's clearly legible name,
address, and phone number
The physician’s signature on the
statement
If a patient presents with an active oral
herpetic lesion, the CFM must evaluate the
lesion and will decide if it is safe for the
patient, candidate, and examiners to proceed
using that patient. If the CFM determines
that it will be unsafe for the patient to be
treated, the CFM will dismiss the patient and
the candidate from the examination. The
candidate may reapply for the earliest
available examination.
Examination fees may be transferred to the
new examination assignment. Facility fees
are not transferrable. An additional charge
for the facility fee at the next examination site
will be assessed on the candidate’s profile.
These conditions require a physician’s
written clearance:
8. A. Angina/chest pain, shortness of
breath
8. B. Heart attack
8. C. Heart surgery
8. D. Stroke
8. E. Congestive heart failure
8. F. Coronary artery or other heart
disease
8. G. Arteriosclerosis/coronary occlusion
8. H. Epilepsy/seizures/convulsions
8. I. Valve damage following heart
transplant
8. J. Infective endocarditis (heart
infection)
8. K. Kidney/renal disease
QUICK TIP A patient will be classified as ineligible
and be dismissed from the examination
if he/she
Is currently taking or has a
history of taking injectable
bisphosphonate therapy
Has a latex allergy (if testing site
is not latex free)
Is in the first or third trimester
of pregnancy
Has oral herpetic lesions (This
condition may be left to the
discretion of the CFM.)
Candidates attempting to present a
patient with one or more of these
conditions will fail the examination.
23
QUICK TIP If the patient answers “Yes” to
questions 8. A., B., C., D., E., F., G.,
H., I., J., or K. on the Medical
History Form, a physician’s written
clearance is required.
Have patient answer Question 12
on the day of the exam.
24
2. Dental Charting Form Candidates must complete the Dental
Charting Form prior to the day of the
examination.
Section 1: General Information. The top
of the form provides an area for indicating in
ink the candidate number, cubicle number,
patient name, examination site, and the date
of examination.
Section 2: Candidate Comments to
Examiners: This section is provided so
candidates can alert examiners to conditions
that might affect treatment or evaluation of
the patient. For example:
• Severe hyperplasia or gingivitis
• Excessive decay on tooth #x
• Pre-existing tissue conditions that might
be construed by examiners as minor
tissue trauma
Any restorative and/or surgical treatment
undergone by the patient since the
radiographs were taken
• Unavoidable reason why radiographs are
less than diagnostic, e.g. patient is a
gagger, narrow palate, lingual tori, etc.
Section 3: Dental Charting
Charting may be done using either ink or
pencil.
Deciduous teeth: mark out the number
and write in the tooth letter.
Missing teeth: cross (X) through the
entire area of the missing tooth. Partially erupted teeth: mark out the
tooth number and write “P/E.”
Unerupted or impacted teeth: circle the
entire tooth area. Implants: cross (X) through the entire
tooth area and change the tooth number
to “I.”
Retained root tips: cross (X) through the
crown of the tooth, circle the root, and write “RT” by the tooth number.
Section 4: Examiner Comments to Other
Examiners:
Do not write in this area. It is for
examiner use only.
25
3. Dental Hygiene Procedure Form
The Dental Hygiene Procedure Form has two
purposes:
Candidates use it to document their case
selection, the 12 surfaces where they believe qualifying calculus is located,
detection findings, periodontal pocket
measurements, and anesthesia record. Examiners use it to make detection and
periodontal teeth assignments and to
communicate comments to candidates regarding minor errors and patient care
concerns.
A blank Procedure Form is shown here.
The table on the following page explains each
section and provides instructions for completing the form.
All surfaces of all teeth in the case selected will be evaluated for remaining
calculus during final evaluation. The list of 12 surfaces on this form are only used for
examiners to being the case evaluation
process.
26
Section Number and Title Instructions
SECTION 1. General Information Complete in ink prior to check-in:
Candidate number Cubicle number Examination site Date of the exam Whether the patient is being shared with another candidate
SECTION 2. Medical Alert Complete in ink prior to check-in on the day of the exam:
Check “Yes” if there are any “Yes” answers anywhere on the Medical History Form.
Check “No” only if all answers on the Medical History Form are “No.”
SECTION 3. Calculus Removal Complete in ink prior to check-in:
Circle a quadrant and list the required two posterior teeth from a second quadrant. Indicate if the quadrant’s third molar is to be treated OPTIONAL: If the quadrant and required posterior teeth do not have sufficient
calculus to meet the requirements, one or two additional posterior teeth may be added to the selection. These must be located in the same quadrant as the two required additional posterior teeth.
SECTION 4: Surface List List 12 surfaces from the teeth in the case where moderate to heavy calculus is located.
This list is used only for examiners to begin the verification process. Other surfaces in
the case selection may be verified while some in the candidate’s list may not.
SECTION 5. Anesthesia Record Complete in ink prior to check-in:
Type of injection(s) planned Name of anesthetic and percentage of vasoconstrictor Candidate number If no anesthesia is planned, slash through section and place candidate number on
slash mark. Complete in ink after all injections are given and prior to final evaluation:
Quantity of anesthetic used, or “0” if anesthesia was planned but not used
SECTION 6. Periodontal Assessment Do not write in Section 6 prior to patient check-in.
During check-in, examiners assign two teeth for the periodontal assessment and note them in Section 6.
After check-in, candidates measure and record pocket depths of the assigned teeth. Complete the periodontal assessment section prior to starting calculus
removal.
SECTION 7. Calculus Detection Do not write in Section 7 prior to patient check-in.
During check-in, examiners assign three teeth for the calculus detection exercise and note them in Section 7.
After check-in, circle “Yes” or “No” to indicate the presence or absence of any type of calculus on the three assigned teeth in Section 7.
Complete the detection exercise prior to starting calculus removal.
SECTION 8. Examiner Comments to
Candidate
Examiners note any corrections to be made prior to starting clinical treatment of the
patient. Examiners attach a “See CFM” sticker below this area (labeled “For Examiner
Use Only) to further alert the candidate. The candidate must see the CFM to verify that
corrections have been made before starting patient treatment.
27
G. Forms to present at registration
1. Candidate identification
Each candidate must provide a government- or
school-issued photo ID during registration. A
SRTA badge will be provided at registration and
must be worn at all times during the
examination.
2. Postoperative Care Agreement Complete this form in ink, ensuring that all
information is legible. The designated provider
of postoperative care must sign the form. Give
one copy to the patient. Bring two copies of the
form to registration:
Submit one copy for SRTA’s records.
Submit one copy for the examination
site’s records.
If the patient is returning to a dental/dental
hygiene school for completion of treatment,
complete Section I-A and obtain a signature
from a school official (such as a faculty
member). If the patient’s treatment will be
completed by the candidate in a private or
public dental practice setting, complete
Section I-B. If no provider is available and/or
the patient will choose his/her own clinician for
completion of treatment, complete Section I-
C.
The patient must sign this form under Section
II and receive a copy.
Do not leave any copies of the form in the
cubicle during patient check-in or final
evaluation.
Forms Presented at Registration
One form of government or school issued ID
Patient Disclaimer, Consent, and Release Form
Incident Disclaimer
Postoperative Care Agreement (2 copies)
Affidavit stating that the on-line orientation
slides were viewed
Credentials of qualified practitioner, if local
anesthesia will be administered by someone other than the candidate. These credentials
may be submitted to SRTA before the examination day.
28
3. Patient Disclaimer, Consent, and Release Form
The patient must sign and date this form in ink
prior to registration. Signatures on this form
must be witnessed. Any person other than
the candidate may serve as a witness. The
candidate must enter his/her candidate number.
QUICK TIP The candidate must
verify that this area is
filled out completely
prior to
registration/briefing.
The candidate cannot
sign as the witness.
29
4. Incident Disclaimer
Both the candidate and the patient must sign
and date the Incident Disclaimer. SRTA expects
candidates, as dental professionals, to review
this form thoroughly with their patients.
If this form cannot be completed prior to
registration (e.g., patient is not available for
signature), the candidate may review the form
with the patient and obtain his/her signature
during cubicle set-up time and submit the form
to the CFM or DHA before beginning clinical
exercises.
Candidates are encouraged to print three copies
of this form upon downloading, so both the
patient and the candidate have a copy of the
disclaimer. SRTA retains the third copy.
Beginning a clinical exercise prior to
completing and submitting this form is
grounds for dismissal from the
examination.
30
5. Patient Medical History Bring the patient’s completed Medical History
Form to registration. The CFM will review the
form to identify any possible health issues prior
to cubicle set-up. Note that in addition to the
Medical History Form required for all patients,
some patients with sensitive medical conditions
may require an additional physician’s statement
clearing them for treatment.
If the patient has a condition that requires a
physician’s written clearance, candidates must
present the physician’s letter during registration
or set-up for review by the CFM. If no letter is
presented, the patient will not be allowed
to participate, and the candidate will fail
the examination for presenting an
ineligible patient.
6. Anesthesia Credentials
If the candidate has not previously provided
anesthesia credentials to the SRTA office, they
may be presented during registration for either
the candidate or a qualified practitioner to
administer local anesthesia. Credentials are not
required for topical anesthetics including
products such as Oraqix.
7. On-line Orientation affidavit
Prior to the examination and after registration,
all candidates must view the on-line orientation
slides and sign the form, available on-line with
other examination documents, attesting to
having viewed the slides. This is turned in with
other forms during the registration.
H. Shared patients SRTA understands that it is sometimes
necessary for candidates to share a patient.
The SRTA office must be notified by the
candidates who are sharing a patient so group
scheduling will not overlap.
I. Local anesthesia Examiners do not evaluate the technique and/or
actual administration of local anesthetic.
However, all candidates who utilize local
anesthesia for their patients are required to
complete the appropriate documentation. When
deciding whether to administer anesthesia, keep
in mind that three examiners will examine the
patient using the explorer and will probe
subgingivally during check-in.
Candidates may administer a maximum of four
carpules of anesthetic. For shared patients, see
instructions later in this section. Candidates
may administer anesthesia prior to patient
check-in and at any time during patient
treatment. Administer no more than two
cartridges prior to check-in.
Candidates who have successfully
completed a course in local anesthesia
from a CODA-accredited dental or dental
hygiene school may anesthetize their own
patients. Candidates must provide proof of
successful completion of a local anesthesia
course if not already provided by his/her school
officials. This documentation should include
information on whether the course covered
infiltration anesthesia only or both block and
infiltration anesthesia. This documentation must
be provided during the application process.
Candidates must provide all syringes and
supplies for anesthetic administration. Please
refer to the site letter to see if anesthesia
cartridges will be provided at that testing site.
Candidates who are not qualified to
administer local anesthetics may use topical
anesthetics or anesthesia patches (Oraqix, etc.)
or may bring a qualified practitioner (dentist or
31
dental hygienist) to anesthetize their patient. A
“qualified practitioner” is a person who holds a
current license to practice dentistry or dental
hygiene in the state where the exam is
held. If the practitioner is a dental hygienist, a
valid local anesthesia permit from the state
where the exam is held is also required for the
hygienist to be considered a qualified
practitioner.
If a candidate wishes to utilize a licensed
practitioner from the exam site, he/she must
contact the exam site to make proper
arrangements at least one week prior to the
examination date. Schools are under no
obligation to provide anesthesia services to
candidates; some schools may elect not to offer
anesthesia administration for the examination.
When a candidate uses a qualified practitioner,
the SRTA office must receive copies of the
following items prior to the examination start
date.
Proof of current liability insurance
Photo ID
Copy of dental or dental hygiene license
issued by state board of dentistry where the examination is held
If a dental hygienist is utilized, he/she
must provide proof of local anesthesia
training or a permit to administer local anesthesia from the state where the
exam is given.
The qualified practitioner is required to sign the
Incident Disclaimer provided at the exam to
acknowledge acceptance of responsibility for
anesthesia-related emergencies. The
practitioner must also sign the anesthesia record
portion on the Dental Hygiene Procedure Form
after all anesthetic is administered to verify the
amount of anesthetic administered.
The practitioner is allowed in the examination
clinic area only to administer the anesthesia.
However, the practitioner should remain on the
premises during treatment time to administer
additional anesthetic, if needed, and to
intervene in case of an anesthesia-related
emergency.
More than one candidate may use the same
qualified practitioner to administer anesthesia to
multiple patients, up to a maximum of three
patients per group. Examiners will not delay
check-in to allow extra time for qualified
practitioners to anesthetize patients.
For patient safety, when a patient is shared by
two or more candidates, follow the table of
maximum doses of anesthesia found below.
The total number of cartridges
administered to a single patient during
one day cannot exceed the maximum
doses listed below or four cartridges per
candidate, whichever is less. Each
candidate must plan to use no more than half of
the maximum dose on a patient who will be
shared with another candidate on the same
examination day, unless Lidocaine 2% with
1:100,000 epinephrine is used, in which case
each candidate can administer no more than
four cartridges each.
QUICK TIP ANESTHESIA PRIOR TO
CHECK-IN
• Administer no more than two carpules
of anesthesia prior to check-in.
• Additional carpules may be
administered at any time during
clinical treatment, up to the maximum
of four.
32
Wahl, M.J., Brown, R.S., (2010). Dentistry’s wonder drugs: Local anesthetics and vasoconstrictors. General Dentistry, 58 (2), 114-
123.
J. Infection control Candidates must follow the infection control
procedures recommended by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention. Failure to
follow standard precautions may result in
dismissal from and failure of the examination.
K. Patient communication Candidates should be in contact with their
patients in advance of the evaluation to:
Ensure that the patient understands that
participation in the examination requires a minimum of a four- to five-hour time
commitment Determine whether the patient meets
eligibility requirements to participate in the
examination and that his/her dental
condition meets the case presentation requirements for the clinical skills portion of
the test Prepare/collect all required radiographs
Complete the patient’s Medical History Form
and obtain a physician’s clearance letter,
when required
Determine whether an interpreter will be
needed during the examination Complete the Dental Charting Form and
parts of the Procedure Form
Identify the quadrant and additional teeth
that will be included in the case selection and verify that at least 12 surfaces with
qualifying calculus can be identified easily by examiners
Maximum recommended doses of local anesthetics for dental infiltration/block injections
Anesthetic Maximum dose Dose/cartridge
Maximum
cartridges for 154
lb. adult
Articaine 4% with
1:100,000 or 1:200,000
epinephrine
500 mg (3.2 mg/lb.) 68 mg/1.7 mL
cartridge 7.4
Lidocaine 2% with
1:100,000 epinephrine 500 mg (3.2 mg/lb.)
36 mg/1.8 mL
cartridge 13.9
Mepivacaine 3% plain 400 mg (3.0 mg/lb.) 54 mg/1.8 mL
cartridge 7.4
Prilocaine 4% plain 600 mg (8.0 mg/lb.) 72 mg/1.8 mL
cartridge 8.3
33
EXAMINATION CONTENT
34
III. EXAMINATION CONTENT The clinical skills section of the SRTA
Examination evaluates the candidate’s ability to:
Present an eligible patient, a case that
meets criteria, and diagnostic qualify
radiographs
Measure periodontal pocket depths
accurately
Detect calculus
Remove calculus without damaging the
surrounding tissue
Present the patient for final clinical skills
evaluation free of calculus, plaque, and
extrinsic stains in the case selection
The SRTA Dental Hygiene Examination does not
cover skills such as head and neck assessment,
oral cancer screenings, medical assessment,
emergency management, and pharmacology.
These are sufficiently covered by the National
Board Dental Hygiene Examination. SRTA
examiners, leadership, and educators believe
that including these skills in the clinical
examination would be redundant.
SRTA allows candidates 1½ hours to complete
the calculus detection, periodontal pocket
measurements, and calculus removal exercises.
Perform calculus detection and periodontal
measurements before beginning calculus
removal, in order to ensure accurate detection
and measurements.
Clinical treatment time begins when announced
by the CFM. Stop-time is exactly 1 ½ hours
after the start-time, whether evaluation takes
place in the candidate’s cubicle or if a separate
scoring area is used. The CFM instructs
candidates to vacate the clinic at that time or to
send the patient to the scoring area. Final
evaluation begins immediately after clinic stop-
time. However, any candidate wishing to
proceed to final evaluation prior to the end of
the 1½-hour deadline may notify the CFM to
arrange for early final evaluation. This option
may not be available at all testing sites.
When a separate scoring area is used, the
candidate must stop all patient treatment at
his/her unique clinic stop-time. Patients must
be presented at the desk no more than five
minutes after the candidate’s clinic stop-time.
Patients presented more than five minutes after
the candidate’s clinic stop-time will not be
evaluated and the candidate will fail.
35
At least two out of three examiners must independently assess an error for points to be withheld. The
table below explain the criteria for scoring.
Skills
Evaluated Evaluation Criteria
Initial case
presentation
Patient meets all eligibility requirements and is free of excessive soft debris
Case includes a full quadrant with at least six teeth and two posterior teeth from a
second quadrant.
Case includes at least two natural, permanent molars.
o One is located in the selected quadrant.
o One of the teeth in the second quadrant is a molar.
o One of the molars has two proximal contacts with adjacent teeth.
Radiographs of the teeth selected must be of sufficient quality for a dentist to
accurately diagnose dental caries, periodontal health, or other dental diseases and
abnormalities.
Measure
periodontal pocket
depths
The candidate accurately records the sulcus/pocket depths of two assigned teeth.
Measurements made by the candidate are within ± 1 mm of the median of the
measurements recorded by the three examiners during check-in.
Detect calculus
The candidate accurately detects the presence or the absence of any type of calculus
on the four surfaces of the three assigned teeth.
The candidates “Yes” and “No” answers match at least two out of the three
examiners’ answers recorded during check-in.
Remove calculus
The candidate completely removed all calculus from every surface in the case
selection.
o No calculus is seen when tooth is dried with compressed air.
o No calculus is felt with 11/12 explorer.
Tissue
management
The candidate did not inflict any avoidable minor or major tissue damage during
calculus removal.
Final case
presentation
The patient was presented for final evaluation free of remaining calculus, plaque,
stain, or prophy paste residue in the treated area.
The anesthetic record was complete.
A. Periodontal measurement exercise During check-in, examiners assign one anterior
and one posterior tooth for the candidate to
measure periodontal pocket depths. Three
examiners measure and record periodontal
pocket depths on the two assigned teeth using a
UNC probe marked with 1 mm increments and
document their findings in the computer scoring
program.
During clinical treatment time, the candidate
must also measure and record pocket depths for
these two assigned teeth. His/her
measurements will be compared with the
measurements taken by the examiners. In order
to receive credit for the periodontal
measurement exercise, the candidate’s
measurements must be no more than ± 1 mm
from the median of the measurements made by
the three examiners.
36
The examiners record their pocket depth
measurements with all calculus present.
Because pocket depths could change after
calculus removal, candidates must
complete periodontal measurements
before removing calculus.
Each tooth has three surfaces where
measurements are evaluated: mesio-lingual
(ML), disto-lingual (DL), and lingual (L).
Record each measurement in the appropriate
space on the form. For example, the periodontal
pocket depths for the mesio-lingual surface of
the assigned tooth must be recorded in the
space labeled “ML,” the lingual reading must be
recorded in the space labeled “L,” etc.
Errors are assessed for any space left
blank.
Do not use any copies or reference materials for
this section. Candidates found using previously
recorded and/or copied periodontal charts or
other copies of the patient’s periodontal pocket
depth measurements will be dismissed for
unprofessional conduct and will automatically
fail.
During final evaluation, the DHA will assist
candidates in entering their periodontal pocket
depth measurements into the computer scoring
system.
37
B. Calculus detection exercise During check-in, examiners assign three teeth
for candidates to evaluate for the presence or
absence of calculus. Three examiners evaluate
the mesial, distal, facial, and lingual surfaces of
those three teeth and document their findings in
the computer scoring program.
Each tooth has four surfaces where calculus may
be counted: mesial (M), distal (D), facial (F),
and lingual (L).
Examiners use the 11/12 explorer and
compressed air for calculus detection.
At the start of clinical treatment time and prior
to removal of any calculus, candidates must
evaluate the four surfaces of the three assigned
teeth. If any supra- or subgingival calculus—
whether light, moderate, or heavy—is present
on a surface, the candidate should indicate
“Yes” on the Procedure Form. If the candidate
finds no calculus on a surface, he/she should
enter “No” on the form.
For the purposes of the detection exercise, any
calculus present on the surface should be
marked “Yes,” even if it does not meet the
definition of “qualifying calculus” as defined
earlier in this manual.
Note: Complete the calculus detection exercise
prior to removing any calculus. If calculus is
removed prior to completing the detection
exercise, the candidate will be unable to make
an accurate evaluation of the presence or
absence of calculus. Remember that the
examiners complete their own calculus
detection exercise during check-in and
prior to any calculus removal.
During final evaluation, the DHA assists
candidates in entering their detection answers
into the computer-scoring program. The
program determines whether the candidate’s
findings match those of the examiners.
Candidates earn points for each surface where
the candidate’s findings match two out of three
examiners. If examiners find calculus on a
surface, and the candidate finds calculus on the
same surface, the candidate earns points. If
examiners find no calculus on a surface, and the
candidate also finds no calculus on the surface,
the candidate also earns points. Candidates
earn no points if they do not select an answer at
all or if they select both “Yes” and “No.”
38
Detection procedures:
Candidates should ensure that the tooth
demonstrates calculus when the following
detection methods are used:
Insert the 11/12 explorer into the
sulcus/pocket in contact with the crown, and
then slide apically along the root using the
side of the tip of the explorer to detect
calculus.
Interference with the apical sliding motion
along the tooth surface indicates dental
calculus. Note that a “bump” is calculus, a
concavity is dental caries, and the change of
direction is the CEJ.
Detect calculus when interference occurs
during the sliding motion of the explorer or
by deflection of the tissue away from the
tooth.
When calculus stops the explorer during the
apical movement along the tooth surface,
move the explorer out and away from the
tooth surface and continue the sliding
movement apically, moving back under the
calculus piece to regain contact with the
root surface.
Continue the apical sliding motion until the
soft base of the sulcus/pocket is reached.
Use compressed air to deflect the tissue and
visually observe calculus deposits whenever
possible.
Calculus found on the line angle will be
counted as being present on the mesial or
distal surface.
Points are awarded if the candidate's evaluation of the presence or absence of
calculus on a surface is the same as two out of three examiners'
evaluation of the same surface.
Final Evaluation
Candidate's "Yes" and "No" answers are entered into the computer-scoring system, where they are compared to the evaluations of the three examiners.
Clinical Treatment Time
Prior to starting the prophylaxis, candidate evaluates all four surfaces of the three teeth for the presence or absence of calculus.
Check-In
Examiners assign three teeth in the selection.
Three examiners evaluate all four surfaces of the three teeth for the presence or absence of calculus.
QUICK TIP Complete the periodontal
measurements (Procedure Form,
Section 6) and calculus detection
exercise (Procedure Form, Section 7)
before beginning calculus removal.
39
C. Partial prophylaxis exercise After completing periodontal measurements and
calculus detection, candidates clean all teeth in
the case selection including the entire selected
quadrant, both required additional teeth from
the second quadrant, and any optional
posteriors from the second quadrant, of any are
selected. All surfaces in the case selection
will be evaluated for remaining calculus,
both supragingival and subgingival.
Remaining subgingival calculus and
supragingival calculus are scored equally.
The case selection made by the candidate must
have at least 12 surfaces of qualifying
moderate to heavy calculus. Two examiners
must independently validate the presence of
qualifying calculus on up to 12 surfaces. Four
and one-half points are awarded for complete
removal of calculus from each of those surfaces,
for a total of 54 possible points. Two additional
points can be awarded for complete removal of
calculus from all other surfaces in the case
selection. Candidates can earn up to 56 total
points for calculus removal - over half of the
examination’s 100 possible points. If four or
more surfaces of remaining calculus are
validated during final evaluation, a 15-
point penalty is assessed and the
candidate will fail.
If examiners are unable to validate 12
surfaces of qualifying calculus in the
selection, the candidate will not be able to
earn points for removing calculus on 12
surfaces. Candidates earn points for removal of
calculus only on surfaces on which at least two
examiners have confirmed the presence of
moderate to heavy qualifying calculus. If 12
surfaces of qualifying calculus are not validated
by at least two examiners, candidates will have
fewer opportunities to earn points for calculus
removal.
For example, if two of the three examiners are
able to validate only 10 surfaces of qualifying
calculus in the case selection, the candidate will
have only 10 opportunities to earn points for
calculus removal and can earn only 45 points for
that section of the examination.
Excessively decayed teeth, primary teeth, and
implants in the quadrant will not count as
molars for case selection and will not count
toward any calculus requirements but will count
toward the required six teeth in the quadrant.
Prior to check-in, document the case selection in
Section 3 of the Procedure Form by circling the
quadrant selected and listing the two required
posterior teeth from the second quadrant, one
of which must be a molar. Indicate whether the
third molar is to be included in the selection.
Do not list molars or premolars from the
selected quadrant as the additional teeth. For
example, if the candidate selects the upper right
quadrant, do not list #1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 as the
additional teeth. Ensure the accuracy of tooth
numbers for teeth that may have drifted.
During check-in, examiners evaluate all surfaces
in the case selection and validate up to 12
surfaces with qualifying calculus. The final list
may include some (but not all) of the surfaces
from the candidate’s list on the Procedure Form
plus others in the selection that were validated
by examiners during check-in. Candidates are
not informed of the final list of surfaces
that were validated as having qualifying
calculus. Therefore, candidates must clean all
surfaces of all teeth in the selection, as any of
these surfaces may be evaluated for remaining
calculus during final evaluation.
D. Tissue management Candidates must utilize hand instruments,
prophy cups and/or brushes, ultrasonic/sonic
cleaning devices, and dental floss without
causing soft tissue trauma such as abrasions,
lacerations, or burns.
1. Minor tissue trauma
Definition: Any injury that is inconsistent with
the procedure and is expected to heal without
professional treatment by a dentist or physician.
40
Examples of minor tissue trauma: small
lacerations, cavitron burn, abrasions on papillae,
gingiva, tongue, lip
If four or more areas of minor tissue
trauma are validated, a major tissue
trauma error will be assessed, resulting in
automatic failure of the clinical
examination module.
2. Major tissue trauma
Definition: Any injury that is inconsistent with
the procedure and that will not heal on its own
without professional treatment by a dentist or
physician.
Examples of major tissue trauma:
amputated papilla, significant cavitron burns,
severely lacerated soft tissue, exposure of the
alveolar process, broken instrument tip evident
in the sulcus or soft tissue, root surface
abrasions that require professional treatment.
The unwarranted presence of major tissue
trauma will result in automatic failure of the
examination.
Points are awarded to candidates whose
patients exhibit no minor tissue trauma around
any of the teeth treated during the oral
prophylaxis or on any other soft tissue
structures. At least two of three examiners must
independently identify tissue trauma on the
gingiva or soft tissue structure for points to be
withheld. Pre-existing tissue injuries
and/or conditions should be noted by the
candidate under “Candidate Comments to
Examiners” on the Dental Charting Form.
E. Anesthesia record Candidates should administer no more than two
carpules of anesthesia prior to patient check-in.
Additional carpules may be administered at any
other time during the examination, up to a
maximum of four carpules.
If anesthesia is planned,
Prior to check-in, fill in the type of
injection(s) planned and the name of the
anesthetic with ratio of vasoconstrictor.
Prior to final evaluation, fill in the
quantity of anesthesia used. Enter a “0” if anesthesia was planned but not used.
Candidates must enter their candidate number
as a part of the anesthetic record. If the
candidate opts to use a qualified practitioner to
administer anesthesia, the practitioner must sign
in the area indicated to verify the amount and
type of anesthesia given.
If anesthesia is not planned,
Place a slash (/) mark across this section
and write the candidate number on the
slash mark. If this area is blank at check-in and the
candidate did not slash through the area,
the approving examiner will slash through the area and enter his/her PIN number.
If the candidate or an examiner has slashed
through this area but administration of
anesthesia becomes necessary, contact the CFM
for permission prior to proceeding.
Any injury that is inconsistent with the procedure and is expected to heal without professional treatment by a dentist or physician
Examples of minor tissue trauma:small lacerations; cavitron burns; abrasions on papillae, gingiva, tongue, lip
If four or more areas of minor tissue trauma are validated, a major tissue trauma error is assessed, resulting in automatic failure of the clinical examination module.
Minor tissue trauma
Any injury that is inconsistent with the procedure and that will not heal on its own without professional treatment by a dentist or physician
Examples of major tissue trauma:amputated papilla, significant cavitron burns, severely lacerated soft tissue, exposure of the alveolar process
The unwarranted presence of majortissue trauma will result in automatic failure of the examination.
Major tissue trauma
41
DAY OF EXAMINATION
42
IV. CLINIC SCHEDULE
V. DAY OF EXAM
A. Overview Prior to examination day, candidates must view
the online Examination Orientation slide
presentation available from the candidate’s
profile on the SRTA website. The candidate
must sign and submit an affidavit attesting that
he/she has viewed the slideshow. Submit the
affidavit during registration along with other
paperwork.
On the day of the exam, each candidate must
provide his/her own instruments, patient, a full-
mouth series of diagnostic-quality radiographs of
the patient presented, and appropriate
paperwork.
The day begins with registration and
examination briefing at the designated time.
After submitting paperwork and answering
questions, candidates will go into the clinic to
set up their cubicles, where they will prepare
patients for treatment and organize paperwork
required for patient check-in. After examiners
check the patients in, candidates begin the 1 ½
hour treatment time. When the 1 ½ hours are
over, patients are evaluated by the examiners.
Candidates will then disinfect their cubicles and
gather personal belongings.
B. Registration/examination briefing On the day of the examination, candidates
attend registration/examination briefing
immediately prior to their group’s published set-
up time. Members of each group set up their
cubicles at the designated examination start
time found in the clinic schedule.
Examination briefing begins at the time
designated on the schedule for each group.
Candidates will receive notification about the
registration/briefing venue along with the other
logistical information provided by SRTA after
candidates are assigned to an examination site.
Registration/briefing follows this general format.
SRTA personnel may make minor adjustments to
the examination briefing format due to unique
site requirements:
The DHA and CFM provide a verbal
overview of the examination day and tips to help make the day less stressful.
Candidates ask questions about the
examination.
Candidates submit their paperwork.
Candidates receive their exam badges
and holders. Candidates receive badges for
interpreters and qualified practitioners
providing local anesthesia (if applicable).
Due to the number of sites at which the SRTA
administers the examination, site-specific
orientations are not provided. It is the
responsibility of each candidate to contact the
site prior to the date of the examination to verify
that all hand-pieces and sonic/ultrasonic scalers
are compatible with school equipment. It is
advisable to visit the site prior to the
examination date to become familiar with the
clinic. The candidate must arrange a visit
directly with school officials, as SRTA
cannot arrange tours of sites. Candidates
who do not attend the examination briefing will
not receive separate instructions.
Registration/briefing is for candidates only.
Visitors and patients cannot participate unless
the CFM or DHA grants permission.
Groups
A (D)
Groups
B (E)
Groups
C (F)
Registration/Examination briefing* 7:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 12:15 p.m.
Examination start-time (set-up) 7:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 12:45 p.m.
*SRTA reserves the right to amend the schedule. Candidates should be present on-site prior to the examination start-time. All
scheduled times as listed could be moved earlier if conditions exist to do so and if all candidates, patients, and examiners agree
to an earlier start-time.
43
C. Administration SRTA administers the examination using one of
two procedures, depending on the size and
layout of the clinic. The method to be used at
each site will be announced during
registration/examination briefing. All other
aspects of the examination are the same,
regardless of the method of administration.
1. Mass check-in and evaluation At examination sites using the mass check-in
and evaluation process, patients remain in their
cubicles throughout the examination. Examiners
will visit each cubicle to perform check-in and
final evaluation while candidates wait in a
designated area. After check-in is completed, all
candidates will return to their cubicles to begin
patient treatment at the same time. The patient
treatment start and stop-times are the same for
all candidates. At the end of the patient
treatment time, candidates return to the
designated waiting area while examiners
perform final evaluation in the cubicles.
2. Scoring area check-in and
evaluation At other sites, a separate scoring area is used
for check-in and final evaluation. At these sites,
patients must be sent to the designated scoring
area no later than 10:00 a.m. for the
morning group and no later than 3:15 p.m.
for the afternoon group. All forms, radiographs,
and instruments must be sent with the patient.
Each candidate has a unique start- and stop-
time for patient treatment, which will be
recorded and monitored by the CFM. Patients
must be sent to the scoring area for final
evaluation no more than five minutes after the
candidate’s clinic stop-time. Late patients will
not be evaluated and the candidate will fail.
QUICK TIP FORMS REQUIRED FOR REGISTRATION/EXAMINATION BRIEFING
• One form of government- or school-issued photo ID
• Completed Postoperative Care Agreement (two copies)
• Patient Disclaimer, Consent, and Release Form
• Incident Disclaimer
• Patient Medical History with physician’s clearance letter, when required
• Signed form attesting that the on-line orientation slides were watched
• Credentials of qualified practitioner, if someone other than the candidate will administer local
anesthesia and if those credentials were not provided to the SRTA office prior to the day of
the examination.
QUICK TIP POLICY FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES
• All cellular phones and other electronic devices other than electronic books such as Nooks or
Kindles must be turned off during the entire examination process.
• Neither candidates nor patients may use cell phones or cameras at any time. If a candidate or
patient is found using a cell phone or camera, the candidate will fail the examination.
44
D. Cubicle set-up
Candidates divide into groups to take the
examination as outlined in the clinic schedule.
The official start of the examination is the time
set-up begins in the clinic. Whether a
designated scoring area is used for examiner
evaluations or if those evaluations take place in
the candidates’ assigned cubicles, the
examination start-time is the same.
At the published time, each group of candidates
and their patients enter the clinic floor to begin
cubicle set-up. Candidates have a maximum of
45 minutes to set up their cubicles. When the
CFM announces that set-up time is over,
candidates must either 1) leave the clinic floor
so examiners can enter to perform patient
check-in, or 2) send the patient to the scoring
area. The exact logistics will depend on the
scoring process at the examination site
During cubicle set-up, candidates should ensure
that their workstations are set up appropriately
for the examiners who will evaluate each patient
during check-in. Follow these steps to prepare
for the examiners:
1. Verify that air, water, light, chair, hand-piece, and cavitron are working
properly.
Notify CFM immediately if there are any equipment problems.
2. Locate disposable supplies provided by the school.
Disinfect cubicle and apply barriers.
3. Arrange instruments and paperwork.Separate instruments for examiners from
those used for clinical treatment so they are easily accessed by examiners.
4. Verify case selection (quadrant and additional teeth) in computer scoring
program. The DHA will assist with this process.
5. Seat patient with bib and safety glasses on, recline chair, and turn on
patient light.
Take and record patient’s blood pressure on the Medical History Form.
Ensure the CFM PIN is entered on
the Medical History and Procedure Form.
Anesthetize patient.
45
The candidate must provide or have access to a
blood pressure measuring device and must take
the patient’s preoperative blood pressure
reading on the day of the examination.
Record these readings on the Medical History
Form prior to check-in. To protect the health of
the patient, no treatment is allowed if the
patient’s systolic blood pressure reading is
greater than 160 and/or the diastolic
reading is greater than 100 the day of the
examination. Have the patient answer Question
12 on the Medical History Form on the day of
the examination
If the patient is being shared with another
candidate at the same examination, blood
pressure readings must be taken immediately
prior to each examination and recorded on a
separate Medical History Form for each
candidate.
E. Patient check-in Patient check-in is the procedure during which
three examiners:
Evaluate the case selection for the required
criteria.
Assign teeth for the calculus detection and
periodontal assessment exercises Document where calculus is found on the
teeth assigned for detection
Measure and record the periodontal pocket
depths on the teeth assigned for the periodontal assessment
Validate up to 12 surfaces with
qualifying calculus for evaluation of
calculus removal skills. These will be
worth four and one-half points each if all
calculus is removed.
This process may take up to 90 minutes. Advise
patients to expect a 90-minute wait, and make
them as comfortable as possible. Patients may
use books, magazines, or other non-electronic
devices. SRTA prohibits the use of all
electronic devices by both patients and
candidates during the examination, except
for electronic readers, such as Nooks or
Kindles. Patients found using phones or
cameras during the check-in process will be
dismissed, and the candidate will fail. Remind
patients not to touch the light, instruments, or
any paperwork.
To facilitate the check-in process, patients must
be plaque-free, and there must not be evidence
of soft debris, food matter, etc. If a patient is
presented for check-in with excessive soft
debris, the check-in process will be postponed.
After clinical treatment time begins, the
candidate must instruct the patient to brush to
remove the excessive soft debris. After the
patient has brushed his/her teeth, examiners will
perform a late check-in
Candidates may not enter the clinic or scoring
area during check-in. Candidates at sites where
check-in is performed at the cubicles may not
return to the clinic until advised by the CFM.
Candidates who fail to leave the clinic, re-enter
the clinic without permission from the CFM, or
attempt to enter the scoring area risk dismissal
from the examination and automatic failure.
QUICK TIP PREPARING FOR PATIENT CHECK-IN
• Place bib and safety glasses on patient, recline chair, and turn on patient light.
• Separate mirror, 11/12 explorer, and required probe from other instruments to make them easily
available for examiners.
• Move all other paperwork and instruments out of the treatment area.
• Place radiographs, paperwork, and covered pencils in an easily accessible area.
• Instruct patient to leave patient light on and to leave all paperwork alone.
46
Procedure Form with candidate sections completed prior to check-in
QUICK TIP Complete Sections 1 through 5
(except for anesthesia quantity)
prior to patient check-in.
At least two weeks prior to the
examination, enter the
information from Sections 3 and
4, documenting the case
selection and surface list.
Adjustments can be made on
examination day by the DHA, if
needed.
47
Procedure Form after check-in is completed
SEE CFM BEFORE STARTING
PATIENT TREATMENT
QUICK TIP After check-in is complete, review the
Procedure Form for:
Two teeth assigned for the
periodontal assessment (Section 6)
Three teeth assigned for the
calculus detection exercise
(Section 7)
Comments to the candidate from
examiners; SEE CFM sticker.
(Section 8)
48
F. Clinical treatment time
When check-in is completed, candidates may re-
enter the clinic. The CFM will announce
treatment start-time. At that point, candidates
may begin the clinical treatment portion of the
examination.
Candidates are allowed 1 ½ hours to complete
all patient treatment. During this time, the
candidate must complete the following
procedures:
1. Measure periodontal pocket depths on the
assigned teeth. Record measurements on
the Procedure Form in the designated area.
2. Complete the calculus detection exercise.
Assess the assigned teeth for the presence
or absence of calculus on the mesial, distal,
facial, and lingual surfaces of the three
assigned teeth. Circle “Yes” or “No” in the
appropriate area of the Procedure Form to
indicate the presence or absence of calculus
on each surface.
3. Thoroughly clean all surfaces of all teeth in
the case selection including the selected
quadrant, the required two additional
posterior teeth, and any optional posterior
teeth listed on the Procedure Form. All
surfaces of all teeth in the case selection will
be evaluated for remaining calculus by the
examiners.
The CFM or DHA will announce when clinical
treatment time is over. Candidates must vacate
the clinic or send the patient to the scoring area
when instructed to do so or risk dismissal from
the examination for unprofessional conduct and
failure of the examination.
Procedure Form after patient treatment is completed
QUICK TIP Sections 5, 6, and 7 in this
example show how the
Procedure Form should
appear prior to final
evaluation. Blanks in the
detection or periodontal
measurements are counted as
errors.
SEE CFM BEFORE STARTING
PATIENT TREATMENT
49
G. Final evaluation Examiners perform final evaluation in the
candidate's assigned cubicle or, depending on
the testing site, in a designated scoring area.
When final evaluation takes place in the
candidate’s assigned cubicle, the candidate is
prohibited in the clinic during this time and may
not enter the clinic until advised by the CFM.
At sites using a separate scoring area, patients
must be presented at the desk for final
evaluation no later than five minutes after the
candidate’s unique clinic stop-time. Patients
presented to the desk more than five minutes
after the candidate’s clinic stop-time will not be
evaluated, and the candidate will fail.
If a candidate finishes the partial oral
prophylaxis prior to the end of the 1½-hour
deadline, he/she may contact the CFM to
request an early final evaluation. Early final
evaluation is not offered at all testing sites.
To prepare for final evaluation, replace patient
bib and all barriers with clean ones. Remove all
instruments from the instrument tray except for
one mirror and one 11/12 explorer. A probe is
not needed for final evaluation.
When the examiners start final evaluation on the
patients, the DHA will collect the Procedure
Forms from the cubicles and assist candidates in
entering their detection findings, periodontal
probe measurements, and anesthetic record into
SRTA’s computer-scoring system.
H. Clean-up After all patients are released, candidates may
re-enter the clinic to clean and disinfect their
cubicles and to collect their personal belongings.
SRTA allows 30 minutes for this process.
I. Surveys Candidate surveys provide valuable feedback
and information to SRTA and are used to
improve the examination process. The surveys
are anonymous and are completed online after
the examination is over.
Notes for Final Evaluation
Patient Preparation For
Final Evaluation
Required Instruments &
Paperwork Information for Patient
• Wearing safety glasses
• Clean bib • Cubicle light on
• Remove contaminated
gauze, needles, and any other materials from the
tray that might cause infection control violations.
• Mirror
• Air-water syringe tip • 11/12 explorer
• Saliva ejector
• Patient’s radiographs • Two sharpened No. 2 lead
pencils (not a mechanical pencil) covered with a
plastic film or aluminum foil barrier
• A clipboard
• Three 2” x 2” gauze squares
• Three or more examiners
will be performing the final evaluation.
• Evaluation may take as long
as 1 hour. • Patients may take restroom
breaks but should inform the CFM prior to leaving the
clinic. • No electronic devices can be
used by patients except for
electronic readers such as Nooks and Kindles.
• Patients may use books, magazines, and any other
non-electronic means of
passing time.
50
51
POINTS SYSTEM
52
VI. POINTS SYSTEM Points are assigned in accordance with the nationwide task analysis survey conducted every five years.
Results from this survey of practicing dental hygienists allows the testing agencies to determine which
clinical skills are performed most frequently, and which clinical skills are considered more important to
protect the public. Skills that rate highest (most points earned) are weighted more heavily than skills that
rate lower.
Criteria Criteria for earning points Points
Possible
Initial case
presentation
Case includes a full quadrant with at least six teeth and two posterior teeth from a second quadrant 1
There is a molar in the quadrant and one of the additional posterior teeth is a molar 1
One of the molars has two proximal contacts with adjacent teeth 1
Patient is presented free of excessive soft debris 1
Radiographs Radiographs of the selected quadrant and additional teeth are of diagnostic quality. 8
Calculus
requirements
Qualifying calculus is verified by at least two out of three examiners in these locations:
Eight on any surfaces of posterior teeth
Five on M or D of posterior teeth
Three on M or D of molars
5
Calculus
detection Twelve surfaces worth 1.5 points each 18
Periodontal
assessment Six measurements worth one point each 6
Calculus removal
Complete removal of all calculus from surfaces verified as having moderate to heavy qualifying
calculus present during check-in.
Maximum of 12 surfaces will be verified by examiners. These are worth 4.5 points each, if
found to be free of all calculus during final evaluation.
If four or more of these surfaces are validated as having remaining calculus during final
evaluation, a 15-point penalty is assessed and the candidate will fail.
54
Tissue
management
No minor, avoidable tissue trauma verified in areas of the mouth treated by the candidate
The presence of four or more validated areas of minor trauma qualifies as major
tissue trauma and automatic failure.
3
Final case
presentation
Case is presented free of calculus on all surfaces in the selection, visible plaque, extrinsic stains,
prophy paste, and any other visible debris in the treated area. Anesthesia record is complete. 2
Total 100
Ineligible patient, major tissue trauma or major infection control violation 100-point deduction = automatic failure -100
If, after thorough examination of both the quadrant and all additional teeth selected by the candidate,
two examiners independently verify only 10 surfaces with qualifying calculus, the candidate can earn
points for removal only on those 10 surfaces, if all calculus is removed, for a maximum of 45 points for
removal. If examiners verify only eight surfaces of qualifying calculus, points for removal are awarded
only on those eight surfaces for a maximum of 36 points. Only when two examiners verify 12
surfaces of qualifying calculus in the selection can the candidate earn the maximum of 54
points for calculus removal.
Examples of major infection control violations include, but are not limited to, forms, patient bibs, gauze,
and/or barriers visibly contaminated with blood; use of non-sterile instruments; uncapped needles; and
other violations that put the patient, candidate, examiner, or staff members at risk for injury or exposure.
53
APPEALS
54
VII. APPEALS SRTA reviews appeals based on facts
surrounding the decision made by the examiners
during the examination. Any other information,
such as experience, school performance,
character references, testimonials, radiographs,
photographs, or models of a patient’s teeth
taken by the candidate or anyone else after
completion of the examination, cannot be
considered in the appeals process.
Consideration can be given only to documents,
radiographs, etc., that were submitted to the
examiners during the examination.
The Appeals Committee is obligated to base its
judgment of technical errors upon its knowledge
of the examination, the validation and
standardization process used by SRTA, and
evidence presented in the candidate's appeal in
a systematic, consistent, reliable, and rational
manner. It is neither consistent nor reasonable
to suppose that examiners can judge matters
more accurately and objectively after an
examination has ended than they did during the
examination. A score cannot be reversed by any
member of the Appeals Committee unless the
disputed score is determined to be a technical
error rather than a perceived judgment error.
SRTA does not honor group, second party, or
verbal appeals. The Southern Regional Testing
Agency is not responsible for any expense
incurred by any party making an appeal.
SRTA does not consider appeals based upon
patient behavior, tardiness, or failure to appear.
SRTA does not provide patients and is not
responsible for this aspect of the examination.
Situations requiring follow-up care are the
responsibility of the candidate, per the
Postoperative Care Agreement.
The host institution publishes an examination
site instruction letter that outlines the provision
of certain minimal materials, support personnel
to dispense these materials, and support
personnel to repair and maintain equipment in
working condition within a reasonable amount of
time. SRTA may consider appeals based upon
failure of the host institution only in instances in
which the Clinic Floor Manager (CFM) or Dental
Hygiene Administrator (DHA) was made aware
of the problem with reasonable time for
resolution at the examination site, rather than
after the fact upon completion of the
examination.
The appellate process includes review of all
documentation of examination results and
candidate performance during the examination.
It may include such additional investigation as
deemed warranted by the circumstance of the
appeal. The process will not include records or
external opinions obtained by the candidate
after the completion of the examination.
The Appeals Committee makes every effort to
complete the appellate review process within 90
days of the receipt of the appeal in the SRTA
administrative office. When an extended
investigation becomes necessary, SRTA will
inform the candidate by letter.
In many cases, SRTA cannot process, evaluate,
and finalize decisions on appeals prior to the
next examination. In cases in which a candidate
successfully completes another examination
while his/her appeal is under evaluation, that
appeal will be dropped automatically by the
chair of the Appeals Committee upon notification
by the executive director. If the candidate fails
a subsequent examination, the appeal process
will continue to completion, and a decision will
be rendered without the committee's knowledge
of the candidate's performance on the
subsequent examination.
SRTA refunds application fees in full in the event
a candidate has made payment for a subsequent
examination and has been granted an appeal
before taking the examination. If SRTA makes a
favorable decision on an appeal, a full refund of
the appeal fee will be mailed to the candidate.
55
SRTA notifies all participating state boards of
dentistry of the results of a favorable decision.
The executive director will maintain a log of all
appeals and take appropriate action to bring
them to a timely completion. The appeal
becomes a permanent part of the candidate's
file maintained in the SRTA administrative office.
The decision of the Appeals Committee is final.
SRTA must receive the candidate’s written
notification/request for an appeal form within 20
calendar days following the release of scores,
not the date the scores are received by the
candidate. The Southern Regional Testing
Agency is not responsible for items lost or
delayed by the Postal Service.
File all appeals in writing on a form provided by
the Southern Regional Testing Agency and sent
by certified mail, along with a certified check or
money order for $300 for the appeal fee. SRTA
must receive the formal written appeal within 60
days of the date of the examination.
Please send requests for an appeal form and
final appeals to the following address:
Executive Director
Southern Regional Testing Agency, Inc.
4698 Honeygrove Road, Suite 2
Virginia Beach, VA 23455-5934
56
57
CANDIDATE POLICIES
58
VIII. CANDIDATE POLICIES
1. Anonymity
SRTA conducts all examinations anonymously.
All examination materials are identified by the
candidate number assigned by SRTA prior to the
examination. The candidate’s name and school
information should not appear on any material
reviewed by the examiners. The examiners at
all sites are experienced practitioners with
diverse backgrounds. The examiners are trained
and standardized prior to each examination and
are evaluated to ensure grading to established
criteria. The examiners are separated from the
candidates and remain in a separate area of the
facility. The candidates must observe all signs
and follow instructions so as not to breach
anonymity. Anonymity is preserved between
the scoring examiners and the candidates but
not among the examiners themselves.
Examiners may consult with one another
whenever necessary. There are times when
fairness requires consultation among examiners.
2. Candidate accessibility
SRTA makes every effort to accommodate and
comply with ADA legislation for any candidate
with a documented physical and/or learning
disability that impairs sensory, manual, or
speaking skills and that requires a reasonable
deviation from the normal administration of the
examination. The candidate must present a
written statement from a qualified physician at
the time of application. The statement must
clearly define the limitation(s) and must detail
the assistance required to ensure appropriate
accommodations. Requests are evaluated on a
case-by-case basis. Accommodations/deviations
are not allowed for the components/skills the
examination measures. Information regarding
the physical/learning challenges of a candidate
will remain confidential except in the case of
disabilities that may require emergency
treatment. In such cases, onsite safety
personnel will be advised.
3. Confidentiality
SRTA office staff or examiners will not discuss
candidate scores, appeals, concerns, or
questions with a candidate’s spouse, parent,
faculty member, family member, or friend.
4. Dismissal from examination
This listing is not all-inclusive of the reasons for
which a candidate may receive a failing
evaluation or dismissal. Some procedures may
be deemed unsatisfactory for other reasons.
Additionally, a combination of several
unsatisfactory evaluations may result in failure.
Reexamination will be denied for one year (12
months) from the date of dismissal from the
examination. Infractions that may lead to
dismissal or failure include:
Evidence of dishonesty or misrepresentation
during the application process, including false or misleading statements or false
documentation presented by the candidate
or on the candidate’s behalf Evidence of dishonesty or misrepresentation
during candidate registration or during the course of the examination
Rude, abusive, or uncooperative behavior exhibited by the candidate and/or those
accompanying the candidate to the
examination site Failure to vacate the clinic for patient check-
in or continuing to work after published cut-off time
Failure to complete the examination within
the allotted time (No make-up time, grace period or second effort is allowed for any
part of this examination.) Alteration of preoperative radiographs
Receiving assistance from a dentist, another candidate, faculty member, etc. SRTA
understands that different programs will
support candidates in different ways, but patient selection must be an independent
decision made only by the candidate. Thievery during the course of the
examination
Performance of any unauthorized work outside of designated areas at the test site
59
Noncompliance with anonymity
requirements for patient check-in and/or examiner scoring. Candidates must not
enter the area designated for check-in or scoring. Candidates must instruct their
patients not to handle any paperwork
during the course of the examination. Noncompliance with established guidelines
for asepsis and infectious disease control Use of a patient who has been removed
from the patient pool. It is the candidate’s responsibility to determine whether the
patient has previously been removed from
the patient pool. Use of previously recorded and/or copied
periodontal charting forms, calculus detection lists/charts or other references
for the periodontal assessment or calculus
detection exercises Charging patients for services performed
Failing to complete or refusing to provide a Postoperative Care Agreement with a
verifiable contact name of the practitioner who will provide postoperative care to the
patient, or the patient’s statement that
he/she will seek care from a practitioner of his/her own choice
Use of cellular telephones, pagers, cameras, or other electronic
equipment, other than electronic
readers such as Nooks or Kindles, by the candidate and/or patient(s) while
in the clinic or scoring areas Attempting to use a patient who is a
dentist, dental hygienist, junior or senior
dental student, or dental hygiene student
5. Electronic equipment and patient comfort
SRTA prohibits the use of cellular telephones,
pagers, cameras, or other electronic equipment
by candidates and/or patients, other than
electronic readers such as Nooks or Kindles,
within the clinic/scoring areas. Violation of this
policy is a reason for dismissal from the
examination.
Patients may bring extra warm clothing or
blankets for their comfort, in case the
temperature in the clinics is cold.
6. Examination documents
Candidates must instruct their patients not to
handle any paperwork during the course of the
examination. Candidates may be dismissed or
fail the examination if their patients handle
examination documents during the course of the
examination.
7. Examination placement & limitations
When the application is processed, SRTA assigns
a group and cubicle for each candidate after the
examination’s published registration deadline.
SRTA policy does not allow transfer to another
testing date or location once an examination site
assignment has been made. However, in cases
of a medical emergency, SRTA may consider
transfers on a case-by-case basis. The
candidate must fully document the nature of the
emergency in writing, including contact
information of a medical professional included
for verification. The SRTA office must receive
notification prior to the examination, or the
request will not be considered and the candidate
will be deemed a “no-show.”
Priority seating for the examination is given for
the exam site’s current students and then on a
first come, first serve basis for all other
candidates. An exam site may become full prior
to the application deadline; therefore, SRTA
cannot guarantee placement at any exam site.
Applying early may increase the probability of
placement in the preferred site.
SRTA requires a minimum of 12 candidates at
any testing site and reserves the right to cancel
an exam and reassign candidates to other
testing sites in the event there are fewer than
12 candidates scheduled for any examination.
8. Examination results
Candidates must pass the clinical examination
with a score of at least 75 points out of 100.
Candidates who fail may retake the examination
and can login to their account on the SRTA
website to view the errors assessed.
60
Results are available online within three
business days after completion of the
examination. An unofficial results report from
each examination will be available to
view/download online under the ‘Results’ tab of
the candidates’ profile. “Unofficial results” are
reports that do not have a stamp or embossed
seal proving the document came from a valid
authorized source and guaranteeing the
contents to be accurate.
Although the SRTA Examination is accepted by
31 state dental boards for licensure, SRTA
automatically sends the examination record of
each candidate only to the SRTA Participating
state boards of dentistry, which are Alabama,
Arkansas, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia,
and West Virginia. For scores to be sent to any
of the other 25 states, please contact the SRTA
office.
Some state boards of dentistry may require a
notarized copy of the final report, which SRTA
will provide for a nominal fee. Please contact
our office to request this additional service.
SRTA may also send the examination record to
each current graduate’s university.
In addition to SRTA’s six participating boards, 25
other states accept the SRTA results for
licensure. Candidates should contact the
individual state board of dentistry where they
are applying for licensure to verify acceptance of
SRTA scores and to learn of other state-specific
requirements.
SRTA supplies the examination results to the
participating state boards but does not analyze
or interpret the records and makes no
recommendations on the way the states use the
scores. Individual state boards determine
acceptance of the regional examination scores.
The AADB (American Association of Dental
Boards) is creating a national database or
clearinghouse for the reporting of results for all
dental and dental hygiene clinical exams
including the number of attempts required to
obtain a passing score. This information will be
available to every state dental board. The
database will continue to be populated with all
board actions taken on individuals after
licensure is obtained.
9. Equipment
Providing the necessary equipment is the
responsibility of each candidate. Each testing
site charges an additional fee for the use of
facilities and incidental materials. This fee is
combined with the examination fee, which is
listed by site in Section I-E of this manual.
SRTA strongly advises candidates to visit the
examination site prior to examination to
familiarize themselves with the facilities and
available equipment and to ensure that their
hand-pieces and ultrasonic/sonic equipment can
be adapted to the unit available at the testing
site. These arrangements must be made
directly with the school. The use of
ultrasonic/sonic instruments is permitted.
However, it is the candidate's responsibility to
provide equipment that is compatible with
testing site attachments. Some additional
equipment may be available from certain testing
sites if candidates arrange in advance with the
school. The testing site provides the operating
chair and unit. Candidates must furnish all
necessary materials and required instruments.
SRTA is not responsible for the malfunction of
the facility’s or the candidate’s equipment and
will not allot additional time due to the
malfunction of any equipment. Equipment
maintenance personnel are onsite during each
examination to ensure the equipment and the
water are in working order. At the site, should
an equipment malfunction occur prior to or
during the examination, the candidate must
notify the CFM or DHA immediately so the
appropriate personnel may be contacted.
10. Ineligible candidates
Candidates must notify the SRTA office of their
ineligibility in writing two weeks prior to the
scheduled examination. A letter from the
program director of the candidate’s institution
61
will be required as proof of ineligibility. SRTA
retains the complete application fee for any
candidate declared ineligible by his/her program
director. Candidates must contact the testing
site directly for a refund of facility fees.
Candidates declared ineligible may take the
examination at a future site within a 12-month
period upon payment of applicable facility fees,
a $200 processing/administration fee, and
submission of a new application with all the
required documentation.
11. Infection control
SRTA requires candidate compliance with the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
Recommended Infection Control - U.S.
Department of Health And Human Services -
Public Health Service, Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention Guidelines for Infection
Control in Dental Health-Care Settings - 2003 as
reprinted from Morbidity and Mortality Weekly
Report, Recommendations and Reports
December 19, 2003, Vol. 52, No. RR-17. Refer
to the aforementioned publication for a
complete listing of recommended practices.
Infection control procedures and
categories of patient care
During the examination, candidates must follow
the current recommended infection control
procedures as published by the CDC, beginning
with the initial set-up of the unit, continuing
throughout the clinical examination, and
including the final cleanup of the cubicle. Dental
professionals must prevent the spread of
infectious diseases. Because many infectious
patients are asymptomatic, all patients shall be
treated as if they are, in fact, contagious. It is
the candidate's responsibility to ensure that
he/she complies fully with these procedures.
Patients must wear protective eyewear during all
clinical procedures and are required to have
protective eyewear during the evaluation.
Patients must wear a clean patient napkin
during evaluation.
Major violations of these standards and
guidelines—defined as violations that put
patients, candidates, school staff, or
examiners at risk—may be grounds for
immediate dismissal, and reexamination
may be denied for one year (12 months)
from the date of dismissal from the
examination.
Post-exposure management: Should a
needle-stick injury or other exposure to blood
borne pathogens occur during the clinical
module of the examination, follow these
protocols:
Contact the CFM immediately.
Follow all guidelines and directions required
by the facility. If time allows, the candidate and patient
may return to the clinic and complete the examination. If the candidate cannot
complete the examination, the reexamination fees will apply.
12. Instruments
Candidates must provide these instruments for
the examiners during check-in and final
evaluation:
A probe with markings of 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-
9-10 (UNC probe) only. SRTA prefers color-coded probes with yellow bands
alternating with any other color, including
bare metal or plastic. The probe may be single ended or double-ended. However,
if the candidate provides a double-ended probe, the unused end must be covered
using autoclave tape. Candidates may
use the brand or manufacturer of their choice.
An 11/12 explorer for calculus detection at check-in and final evaluation of calculus
removal A reflective front surface mouth mirror,
which may be one- or two-sided
All other instruments are the choice of the
candidate. Candidates must provide or have
access to a blood pressure measuring device
and supplies for anesthetic administration,
including syringes. The school will supply
anesthetic cartridges. Candidates may choose
the type of anesthetic used.
62
If the candidate does not provide the
appropriate instruments, examiners cannot
evaluate the patient at check-in, and the
candidate will lose the time necessary to provide
the missing item(s). If the candidate cannot
obtain the required instruments, he/she will be
unable to take the examination and will,
therefore, fail.
Candidates are encouraged to secure and
provide additional instruments for the
examination. Candidates will not be allowed
additional time if an instrument is dropped or
requires autoclaving. The candidate should
provide an additional sterile mirror, 11/12
explorer, and correct color-coded
periodontal probe in case an instrument is
dropped.
13. Interpreters
Candidates may use the services of an
interpreter if their patient does not speak
English or is has a hearing impairment that
cannot be corrected with the use of a hearing
device. The use of an interpreter is particularly
important when the patient has a history of
medical problems or is on medications. Faculty
members, dentists, dental hygienists (licensed
or unlicensed), third- or fourth-year dental
students, and final-year dental hygiene students
may not act as interpreters during the
examination. Candidates are responsible for the
conduct of the interpreter during the
examination. Candidates who need the services
of an interpreter must contact the SRTA office
prior to the examination. The interpreter must
register with the CFM or DHA and receive a
badge that he or she must wear throughout the
examination.
14. Jurisprudence
SRTA does not administer the jurisprudence
examination for the participating boards of
dentistry. The respective boards of dentistry
develop, administer, and score their own
jurisprudence examinations. SRTA does not
have access to, nor can we provide,
jurisprudence study materials. Candidates
should contact the board(s) of dentistry in the
state(s) in which licensure is sought to arrange
to take the jurisprudence examination.
15. Malpractice Insurance
SRTA’s professional liability insurance company
provides malpractice insurance for all candidates
at no additional charge. CNA Insurance
Company extends SRTA’s professional liability
coverage to candidates with the limit of
$1,000,000/$3,000,000 for the patient-based
portion of the 2016 SRTA clinical examination in
dental hygiene. SRTA’s liability coverage does
not extend to qualified practitioners providing
local anesthetic services.
16. Patients
The candidate must procure his/her own patient
and is responsible for the patient’s arrival and
return. SRTA is not responsible for procuring
patients used in examinations.
Candidates must advise their patients of the
time required to participate in this examination.
Check-in, clinical treatment, and final evaluation
may take up to 90 minutes each. Patients
should expect to spend a minimum of five hours
participating in the exam.
Determination of patient eligibility (that is,
identifying a patient whose dental condition
meets the criteria for the examination) must be
completed independently. It is the candidate’s
responsibility to analyze patient data critically.
The candidate cannot request the
recommendation of a licensed dental or dental
hygiene professional for patient selection.
Patients must be at least 18 years of age. No
patient may be a dentist, dental hygienist,
junior/senior dental student, or dental hygiene
student. A dental assistant, whether a student
or a practicing assistant, may be a patient. A
woman in her first or third trimester of
pregnancy is not acceptable as a patient.
Patients who have received injectable
bisphosphonate medications may not participate
in the examination.
63
Patients presented with radiographs that are of
such poor quality that examiners cannot
determine whether they are an accurate
depiction of the patient will be dismissed as
ineligible and the candidate will fail.
Patients who answer “Yes” to questions 8.
A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, or K of the
Medical History Form but do not present a
written physician’s clearance to
participate will be dismissed as ineligible
and the candidate will fail.
All written and oral communication must be in
English. Candidates may communicate with
their patients in another language. (See
Interpreter Policy.)
Patients may be photographed during the
examination. SRTA uses the images to revise
the examiner standardization.
17. Patient privacy statement
At the conclusion of the SRTA Examination, the
examiners will collect all patient information.
After a 12-month holding period, the paperwork
will be shredded mechanically. Patient data is
not stored electronically or by any other means.
SRTA uses patient information only for examiner
reference during the examination or during the
appeal process.
18. Professional standards
The purpose of this examination is to assess
professional competency. SRTA expects the
candidates to maintain professional standards in
the following areas:
Suitable operating attire, inclusive of the Personal Protective Equipment. Patients
must wear protective eyewear; candidates must follow OSHA and CDC Guidelines.
Consideration for patients and cooperation
with examiners, test site personnel, and other candidates.
Aseptic techniques and general cleanliness of the cubicle during all procedures.
Candidates must maintain proper infection
control throughout the entire examination. Major violations of these standards and
guidelines are grounds for immediate
dismissal and possible failure. SRTA may deny reexamination for one year (12
months) from the date of dismissal from the examination.
Protection of and concern for tooth
structure and supporting tissue during patient treatment. The unwarranted
occurrence of major tissue trauma will result in automatic failure of the entire
examination.
Violation of any of these standards is
grounds for immediate dismissal from the
examination. SRTA may deny
reexamination for 12 months.
19. Questions
Direct all questions concerning jurisprudence,
licensing, reciprocity, and licensure by
credentials to the appropriate state board where
licensure is sought. This manual lists the
addresses and telephone numbers of the SRTA
participating boards.
Direct questions concerning testing facilities,
equipment, and facility fees to the appropriate
test site. The examination site instruction letter,
available on the SRTA website in the
downloadable forms section, may address most
questions. If necessary, please contact the
testing site after thoroughly reading this letter.
Refer to Section I-E for contact information for
each testing site.
Direct all questions concerning examination
procedures, content, applications, and
examination dates to the Southern Regional
Testing Agency:
4698 Honeygrove Road, Suite 2
Virginia Beach, VA 23455-5934
(757) 318-9082
Email general questions and questions relating
to the dental hygiene examination to
dentalhygiene@srta.org. Be sure to include
your contact information. Once an application
has been processed for a particular site, all
questions for both pre-examination and post-
64
examination must be initiated by the candidate
only. To preserve candidate confidentiality, the
SRTA staff and examiners will not discuss
candidate concerns and questions with a
candidate’s spouse, parent, faculty member,
family member, or friend.
20. Reexamination
After three unsuccessful examination attempts,
the candidate must contact the state in which
licensure is sought to obtain a letter of
approval/permission for a fourth examination
attempt. Some states may require remedial
training after three unsuccessful attempts.
Passing the examination after four or more
attempts does not negate the required remedial
training. This letter from the state dental board
must be submitted with the SRTA application for
examination. Follow the same procedure for all
subsequent examination attempts.
21. Refunds
SRTA will not refund examination fees for
candidates who fail to appear for a scheduled
examination unless SRTA has received written
notification 15 days prior to the application
deadline. In such cases a 50 percent refund
may be given. SRTA does not provide refunds if
the candidate is unable to secure a patient for
the examination or if a patient fails to appear or
is deemed ineligible by the examiners. Please
call the SRTA office for information on transfer
of application fees.
22. Restrictions
Candidates may not use
Nitrous oxide
Air-abrasive instruments Assistants
23. Scheduling conflicts
Please contact the SRTA office for any special
requirements, including religious exemptions. If
a patient is being shared by two or more
candidates, the candidates must contact the
SRTA office must prior to the application
deadline so that the candidates’ group
assignments can be adjusted accordingly.
24. Sharing equipment
SRTA discourages sharing sonic and ultrasonic
scalers, hand-pieces, and other equipment
because it is possible that candidates who are
sharing equipment could be placed in the same
testing group and would need to use the shared
equipment simultaneously.
25. Unethical conduct
Professional behavior is a critical quality in the
practice of dental hygiene. Candidates
exhibiting unethical conduct are subject to
examination termination and failure.
Examples of unethical conduct include, but are
not limited to:
Using unauthorized equipment at any time
during the exam
Using unauthorized patients Altering patient records or radiographs
Treating patients outside clinic hours or receiving assistance from another
practitioner during clinical treatment time,
except for the use of a qualified practitioner for administration of local
anesthesia Engaging in dishonesty
Altering candidate worksheet or treatment
notes Any other behavior that compromises the
standards of professional behavior
When SRTA charges a candidate with unethical
conduct, it is SRTA’s policy to notify all
participating state boards of the situation. Many
state statutes have criteria that include “good
moral character” as a requirement for licensure.
If a state board finds a candidate guilty of the
alleged unethical conduct, the candidate may be
ineligible for licensure in that state at any time
in the future. While SRTA allows candidates to
retake the SRTA Examination, they may be
unable to obtain licensure in any participating
state. Candidates are encouraged to address
these matters with the state in which they desire
licensure prior to retaking the examination.
65
STATE BOARDS OF DENTISTRY
66
IX. STATE BOARDS OF DENTISTRY
SRTA automatically sends each candidate’s
scores to the state boards of dentistry listed
below immediately following each examination.
Candidates taking the SRTA Examination must
also apply directly to the boards of dentistry in
the states in which they seek licensure.
Note: Some states require a certified or
notarized copy of scores, which SRTA will
provide for a nominal fee. Please contact our
office to request this additional service.
Licensure application forms for the participating
boards of dentistry are not available through
SRTA. Candidates must obtain these from the
various boards of dentistry.
Individual state laws regarding remedial training
may vary. Contact the states in which licensure
is sought for their requirements on remedial
education. SRTA does not provide remedial
courses or instruction.
SRTA’s policy allows score certification of the
most recent examination attempt for a period of
five years. The individual state boards of
dentistry determine acceptance of scores.
Arkansas Tennessee
Arkansas Board of Dental Examiners
101 East Capitol Avenue, Suite 111
Little Rock, AR 72201
(501) 682-2085
http://www.asbde.org
Tennessee Board of Dentistry
Bureau of Health, Licensure & Regulation
Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive
Nashville, TN 37243
(800) 778-4123 or (615) 532-3202
http://health.state.tn.us/boards/Dentistry/
Alabama Virginia
Alabama Board of Dental Examiners
5346 Stadium Trace Pkwy, Ste. 112
Hoover, AL 35244
(205) 985-7267
http://www.dentalboard.org/index.htm
Virginia Board of Dentistry
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Richmond, VA 23233-1463
(804) 367-4538
http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/dentistry
South Carolina West Virginia
South Carolina State Board of Dentistry
Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
Synergy Business Park, Kingstree Building
110 Centerview Drive, Suite 306
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 896-4599
http://www.llr.state.sc.us
West Virginia Board of Dental Examiners
1319 Robert C. Byrd Drive
P.O. Box 1447
Crab Orchard, WV 25827
(877) 914-8266 or (304) 252-8266
http://www.wvdentalboard.org
67
FAQ’S AND CHECKLIST
68
X. FAQ’S
1. What is the best method to find out
what I have to do to pass the SRTA
exam?
Read this Candidate Guide and watch the
on-line Pre-Examination and the Orientation
slide shows multiple times. Each time
through, you will better understand the
processes and procedures. Mark important
sections with highlighters or Post-it Notes.
Bring this Candidate Guide to the
examination for quick reference.
2. Where do I get the forms?
All forms are available on your profile under
the “Documents” tab after your application
is complete. Make multiple copies in case
you make errors. Ensure current year
examination forms are completed in ink.
Complete the Dental Charting Form in ink or
pencil.
3. Which forms do I complete prior to the
day of the exam? Complete the Medical History Form,
Postoperative Care Agreement, Patient
Disclaimer, Consent, and Release Form,
Incident Disclaimer, Orientation Affidavit,
and Dental Charting Form in full prior to
the day of the exam.
For the Dental Hygiene Procedure Form,
complete Sections 1, 2, 3, 4,and 5 (except
for anesthesia quantity) prior to the day of
the exam. Do not complete Sections 6 and
7 of the Procedure Form until clinical
treatment time begins. Enter anesthesia
quantity in Section 5 after all injections are
given.
4. Can I use a different explorer than the
11/12?
No. Examiners will use only the 11/12
explorer, usually an ODU 11/12, to score
calculus detection and removal. If you
provide another type of explorer, the
examiners cannot evaluate the patient
and you will fail the examination. You
may use any scalers or explorers to
complete the calculus detection and removal
exercises, but examiners use only the 11/12
for check-in and final evaluation.
5. Can I use any probe I choose?
No. SRTA requires a probe with markings of
1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10, e.g. a UNC probe, and
prefers a color-coded instrument with
yellow/black or other colored banding.
If you do not provide the correct probe, the
examiners will not be able to check in the
patient, and you will fail the examination.
6. What is “qualifying calculus?”
It is easily detectable with an 11/12
explorer and causes a definite “bump”
when explored. It must be subgingival and
moderate to heavy to be considered
“qualifying.” Examiners determine whether a
surface of calculus qualifies.
7. Why do I need to do the calculus
detection exercise before starting the prophy?
During check-in, examiners determine the
presence or absence of calculus on the four
surfaces of three assigned teeth, when all
the calculus is still in place. If you remove
calculus prior to completing the detection
exercise, you will be unable to document the
presence or absence of calculus on the
assigned teeth.
8. Why do I need to complete the
periodontal assessment before starting the prophy?
Examiners record their own measurements
during check-in when all calculus is still in
place. Removing calculus prior to recording
pocket depths could result in measurement
errors, as your readings may vary by more
than ± 1 mm from those recorded by
examiners while calculus was still present on
the surface. In addition, it is quite common
for candidates to become so involved in the
calculus removal exercise that they run out
of time or forget to do the periodontal
69
assessment.
9. What radiograph criteria do examiners
evaluate?
Examiners check to see that the mount has
the appropriate information, that
radiographs are of sufficient diagnostic
quality that they can be determined to
belong to the patient presented, and that
radiographs are mounted correctly. List
your candidate number, the date the
radiographs were exposed, and the patient's
name on the mount or digital printout.
After determining that the radiographs
presented belong to the patient, examiners
evaluate the radiographs of the quadrant
and any additional teeth selected by the
candidate to be included in the case for
diagnostic quality.
Radiographs of the selected teeth must be
of sufficient quality for a dentist to
accurately diagnose caries, periodontal
health, or other dental diseases and
abnormalities.
10. What materials do the examiners need
for check-in and final evaluation? For check-in:
Dental Hygiene Procedure Form
Dental Charting Form
Radiographs
11/12 explorer
UNC color-coded (ideally yellow/black)
periodontal probe
Mirror
Air-water syringe tip
2” x 2” gauze
Saliva ejector
Clipboard
Two sharpened No. 2 lead pencils
covered with a plastic film or aluminum
foil barrier
For final evaluation:
Radiographs
11/12 explorer
Mirror
Clean barriers and bib
Air-water syringe tip
2” x 2” gauze
Saliva ejector
Clipboard
Two sharpened No. 2 lead pencils
covered with a plastic film or aluminum
foil barrier
For both check-in and final evaluation,
separate all instruments required by
examiners from instruments used for patient
treatment. If paperwork or instruments
cannot be located, examiners cannot check-
in or evaluate the patient.
Have the patient seated with a clean bib.
Discard all used gauze and ensure that the
instruments are free of visible blood or other
bioburden. Cover air-water syringes, saliva
ejectors, prophy angles and other materials
in the treatment area with clean barriers.
11. What should I tell the patient about
what will happen during check-in and
final evaluation? Inform the patient that three or more
examiners will be conducting evaluations
and that each process could take as long as
90 minutes. Inform the patient not to turn
the light off and not to touch any forms.
Patients may take restroom breaks, but the
patient should notify the Clinic Floor
Manager (CFM) prior to leaving the clinic.
SRTA prohibits electronic devices
except for electronic readers such as
Nooks or Kindles. Patients using other
types of electronic devices, especially
any device with a camera, will be
dismissed from the examination.
12. What type of disclosing agents may I
use?
The use of any color or type of disclosing
agent is permissible.
13. What materials do the schools supply?
Most schools provide disposable paper
products, anesthetic cartridges, and prophy
70
angles; however, you may provide your
own. It is your responsibility to make sure
you have the required instruments and
supplies. You will receive a letter from the
testing site prior to the examination
explaining what supplies they do and do not
provide. Call the examination site for
specific questions regarding supplies that
are or are not furnished.
14. Can I use an assistant?
No. SRTA does not allow assistants for the
dental hygiene examination.
15. Can I administer local anesthesia to
my patient?
Yes, if you have completed a local
anesthesia course in a CODA-accredited
dental or dental hygiene school and have
submitted the required paperwork to the
SRTA office. Candidates may administer up
to four carpules. Do not administer more
than two carpules prior to check-in.
If you have not completed a local
anesthesia course, you may use topical
anesthesia, including Oraqix or other non-
injectable anesthetic agents.
You may also arrange for a qualified
practitioner to administer anesthesia to your
patient. SRTA does not make those
arrangements.
16. If my patient does not show up, can I
present a different patient?
If a patient does not show up or if, prior to
the start of check-in, the candidate
realizes that the patient is ineligible, a
different patient may be presented if the
required radiographs and paperwork are
available. After the start of check-in, no
patient substitutions are allowed.
17. Are ultrasonic scalers provided by the
schools? No. You must provide your own ultrasonic
scaler. Some schools will rent them to
candidates. Contact the school to see if this
service is available. SRTA does not arrange
for rental equipment.
Additional questions?
Contact the SRTA staff at:
Email: dentalhygiene@srta.org
Phone: (757) 318-9082
71
XI. CHECKLIST
Prior to the day of the examination
Complete application and submit all
required materials online.
Watch the online orientation slide
presentation.
Sign the form attesting that you
watched the slide presentation.
Select an eligible patient with a
sufficient amount of moderate to heavy
calculus.
Complete all pre-examination forms.
Obtain radiographs.
Patient
At least 18 years old No latex allergy (unless testing site is
latex free) No history of injectable
bisphosphonate therapy
Not in first or third trimester of pregnancy
Not a dentist, hygienist, dental student, or dental hygiene student
Has a physician’s written clearance to participate, if any “Yes” answers are
noted on questions 8. A, B, C, D, E, F,
G, H, I, J, or K of the Medical History Form
Bring to registration/examination briefing
Government- or school-issued photo ID
Signed Patient Disclaimer, Consent, and Release Form
Signed Postoperative Care Agreement (two copies)
Signed Incident Disclaimer
Signed affidavit attesting that you watched the on-line orientation slides
Completed Patient Medical History Credentials of qualified practitioner, if
local anesthesia is being administered
by someone other than the candidate Receive at registration: admission badge
Cubicle set-up
Check equipment, air, water, light, and chair to ensure proper functioning.
Contact the CFM if any problems are
found. Take patient’s blood pressure. Record
readings on the Medical History Form. Note “Yes” or “No” for Medical Alerts on
the Procedure Form, if not already
completed. Have CFM enter his/her PIN in Section 2 of the Procedure Form.
If anesthesia is planned, administer up to two cartridges of anesthetic prior to
check-in. If anesthesia is not planned, slash through area on the Procedure
Form and write candidate number on
slash mark. Verify the accuracy of case selection, if
entered electronically prior to the examination date. Last minute changes
can be made, if needed. The DHA and
CFM will assist with this process.
Preparing for check-in
Place clean mirror, 11/12 explorer, and
probe where examiners can easily find
them (away from other instruments). Place Procedure Form, Dental Charting
Form, and radiographs where examiners can easily find them.
Put all other forms and paperwork out
of sight of examiners and away from the clinical treatment area.
Have a clipboard and covered pencils easily available. No mechanical
pencils, please. Have patient wear safety glasses and
clean bib. Recline the patient with light
on. Ensure that patient is free of gross soft
debris.
72
Clinical treatment time
Complete periodontal measurements and recording. Blanks are assessed as
errors. Complete detection exercise. Blanks are
assessed as errors.
Perform oral prophylaxis on all teeth in selected quadrant, both required
additional teeth, and any optional posterior teeth included in the case
selection.
Preparing for final evaluation
Ensure that all teeth in the case selection are free of calculus, visible
plaque, stain, and prophy paste.
Place clean bib on patient. Place clean mirror, 11/12 explorer, and
probe where examiners can easily find them and away from other instruments.
Clear area of contaminated gauze, instruments, syringes, anesthetic
carpules, floor hazards, etc.
Remove ultrasonic/sonic inserts
and contaminated prophy angles. Attach clean tip to air/water syringe and
a saliva ejector. If anesthesia is used, verify that the
quantity is recorded on the Procedure
Form. Verify that all periodontal assessment
measurements and detection findings are recorded on Procedure Form.
Replace contaminated barriers. Have patient wear safety glasses and
recline the patient with light on, if
patient is evaluated in the cubicle.
During final evaluation
With assistance from the DHA and/or
CFM, enter your detection findings,
periodontal probe measurements, and anesthetic quantity into the computer-
scoring program.
QUICK TIP Before sending patient to scoring area or exiting the clinic for final
evaluation:
1. Are all periodontal pocket measurements entered on the
Procedure Form? 2. Are all detection YES NO answers circled on the Procedure
Form? 3. Is the quantity of anesthesia used entered on the Procedure
Form? 4. Are clean barriers on all equipment?
5. Are the 11/12 explorer, mirror, and a few clean 2 x 2 gauze
squares on the tray?
6. Is the tip removed from the ultrasonic/sonic scaler and put away
with other scaling instruments?
7. Does the patient have a clean bib and eye protection?
top related