5 things you need to know about the dental knowledge test

We all know how important it is to go into an exam well prepared. This is especially true for the dental knowledge test. With all the bureaucratic hurdles and the procedures and content of the exams, it's easy to lose track. But don't worry, in this blog post we'll give you a deep insight into the exam and reveal the 5 most important things you need to know in order to soon be able to hold your German license in your hand.

1. When and why do I have to take a dental knowledge test?

The dental knowledge test assesses the knowledge and skills of candidates who have studied dentistry abroad and wish to obtain the German dental license. The knowledge test is intended to ensure that the candidates meet the requirements of the German healthcare system. If it was decided in the previous equivalence test that a foreign dental degree was less extensive in terms of content than a dental degree at a German university, the applicants are given the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in the knowledge test.

2. What parts does the knowledge test consist of and what is tested?

Basically, the dental knowledge test is based on §§ 104 - 118 of the Licensing Regulations for Dentists (ZApprO). The knowledge test consists of a written, an oral and a practical part and is held in this order.

In general, the subjects examined are dental prosthetics, orthodontics, dental surgery and dental conservation. However, candidates should also be prepared for exam questions on emergency medicine, clinical pharmacology, pharmacotherapy and hygiene.

In the first part ( written section ), the candidates are given a diagnosis. They are asked to write two possible treatment plans and justify them within about 45 minutes.

In the second part ( oral section ) of the knowledge test, there is an examination discussion in which the listed subjects are examined for approximately 60 minutes. The treatment plan drawn up during the written part of the examination can also be included in this discussion.

The content of the third part of the knowledge test ( practical section ) is regulated in Section 110 Paragraph 1 Numbers 1-3 of the Dental Licensing Regulations.
In the subject of prosthetics , candidates must be able to prepare a tooth for at least one veneer crown and one partial crown, take an impression and produce a temporary restoration. In addition, a simple dental work such as a plaster model must be produced.
In the subjects of oral surgery and oral, maxillofacial and facial surgery, the candidates must select the appropriate instruments for a given treatment situation and explain their correct use. In tooth conservation, at least one large, three-surface cavity in the posterior tooth area and one approximal cavity in the anterior tooth area must be prepared and filled. In addition, as an endodontic treatment, a natural tooth must be trepanned and the root canal prepared and filled.
Similar to surgery, periodontology also involves choosing and justifying the right instruments for a treatment situation. The correct removal of tartar can also be checked.

The practical part of the exam lasts a total of about 5 hours. Of this, about 2 hours each are for prosthetics and dental conservation and about one hour for oral surgery and maxillofacial surgery.

3. How can I best prepare for the practical part of the knowledge test?

As we have seen above, the practical part of the dental knowledge test is very extensive and the content must be completed in a relatively short period of time. Regular practice is definitely the most promising way to succeed!

For this purpose, you can rent a Frasaco phantom head and an NSK micromotor from the rental range at zahnimarkt.com, for example for a month, and practice preparation from home without any hassle. If you notice that you need more time to establish a routine, no problem! You can easily extend your rental. You can also order the necessary KaVo or Frasaco teeth cheaply online at zahnimarkt.com. Of course, you can also find other consumables and instruments that you need to prepare for the knowledge test or the test itself at zahnimarkt.com.

4. What costs will I incur if I want to take the knowledge test?

The costs for the knowledge test consist of the costs for the respective test sections. The costs can vary from state to state. In total, you can expect exam fees of between €1,500 and €2,500 for the entire knowledge test. If a section has to be repeated, the fees will be charged again. If you pass, you will also have to pay the fees for issuing your license.

5. Can I repeat the dental knowledge test?

If you don't pass the exam the first time, don't be discouraged! You have the option to retake the exam. Use this opportunity to learn from your mistakes and prepare better. The best thing to do is to rent a phantom head and practice all the preparations as often as you can.

Now that you know the 5 most important things about the dental knowledge test, you can take on the challenge. Always remember that thorough preparation and confidence are the keys to success. We wish you the best of luck on your dental knowledge test!