After putting in the work while training to become a dental assistant, you might feel like you’ve finally found your dream career! However, before you can fully step into your new role, there’s one requirement you can’t skip: passing the radiology exam. For students who don’t consider themselves natural test-takers, this can feel like a big challenge. But the good news is, with the right preparation, it’s an obstacle you can absolutely clear. Here’s what you need to keep in mind while getting ready.
What Exactly Is the Dental Radiology Exam?
In Oklahoma, dental assistants are required by law to hold a current permit from the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry (OBD) before they can operate X-ray equipment within a dental office. To obtain that permit, you must pass the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
The RHS is a multiple-choice exam that tests the knowledge and skills needed to safely and effectively perform dental radiographic procedures. It covers three main areas: radiation safety, proper technique, and dental radiography evaluation. A passing scaled score of 75 is required, and thorough preparation is the key to getting there.
Why Is This Exam So Important?
Remember, dental X-rays are one of the most important diagnostic tools in all of dentistry. They help dentists detect cavities, evaluate bone health, identify infections, and plan treatments. As the person responsible for taking those images, you need to understand not just the technical process, but also how to minimize radiation exposure for patients and yourself. The exam exists to make sure every dental assistant who picks up an X-ray sensor is equipped to do that safely and effectively.
How to Prepare Yourself for the Radiology Exam
Luckily, being a great dental assistant doesn’t require you to be a naturally gifted test-taker. However, there are many strategies you can use to adequately prepare yourself. Keep these tips in mind:
- Give yourself at least several weeks of dedicated study time before your exam date. Cramming the night before is rarely effective!
- One of the most effective ways to prepare for any certification exam is through practice questions. They familiarize you with how questions are worded, reveal gaps in your knowledge, and help reduce test-day anxiety.
- Go back through your notes, textbook chapters, and any study guides your instructors provided. The exam tests entry-level knowledge, and everything on it should be material you’ve already encountered in your program.
- A few days before your exam, sit down with a timed practice test in a quiet space, without your notes. Getting comfortable with the pacing of a timed exam can make a huge difference.
- Be sure to get plenty of rest the week before your exam; you will perform at your absolute best if your mind is fresh!
About Green Country School of Dental Assisting
Our team here at Green Country School of Dental Assisting has been helping aspiring dental assistants in Claremore and the nearby communities for several years. Our program is designed to fully prepare you for anything dental assisting will throw your way, and we make sure our students go into the radiology exam with everything they need to succeed. If you have any questions or you want to request additional enrollment information, call or reach out online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (918) 343-7188.