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Part I/II

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed in this web site are solely those of the members of the College of Diplomates, and do not represent, in any way the official voice of the American Board of Endodontics. Remember that the final word rests with the American Board of Endodontics. Remember to read, understand and follow all current instructions and guidance published by the American Board of Endodontics.

The Written Examination

Part I/II of the certification process of the American Board of Endodontics is a four hour written examination consisting of 200 multiple choice questions. The Candidate will be assigned either a morning session or an afternoon session. According to the ABE, the questions are designed to test recall as well as the ability to apply knowledge, interpret information and solve problems. Subject areas include anatomy, biochemistry, embryology, general and oral pathology, microanatomy, immunology, inflammation, microbiology, pharmacology, vascular and neurophysiology, pulpal and periradicular pathobiology, radiology, oral medicine, biostatistics, clinical endodontics, dental materials related to endodontics, related dental disciplines, and classic and current literature. Although there is no one single text or review course that can totally prepare one for a written exam, a number of excellent review courses are offered during the year and are strategically scheduled near the times when board examinations are given.
Because of the contemporary and constantly developing nature of a number of critical areas, particular study should be also directed towards HIV and hepatitis immunology and virology; management of diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease, and renal failure; antibiotics, analgesics, and local anesthetics; basic concepts of cellular and molecular biology; anaerobic bacteria and current genus and species identification; differential diagnosis of radiolucent and radiopaque lesions; wound healing; and guided tissue and bone regeneration.

Review Manuals and Other Aids

Study Aids available from the COD (click here).

Online Services:

A wide variety of information can be obtained from online services, including oral pathology tutorials and other study guides. For example, Grateful Med® & PubMed allows access to the National Library of Medicine's collection of medical and health science information.

Useful Websites:

American Association of Endodontists
American Dental Association
American Medical Association
Dental Education Resources on the Web
Dental Library
Dentistry On-Line
Grateful Med
Healthfinder
HIVDent
Internet Healthcare Directory
Medscape
Quintessence Publishers

Texts, Journals and Suggested Review Articles

Attention should be directed to contemporary literature. Key topical areas should be included such as guided tissue regeneration, wound healing, antibiotic prophlaxis coverage, management of traumatized teeth and medically compromised patients. For examples of contemporary literature please see our literature guide.