National Dental Assisting Exam Guide for Alberta

If you’re thinking about becoming a dental assistant in Alberta, the National Dental Assisting Exam is a major step toward launching your career. This exam is more than just a test; it’s a professional milestone that confirms you have the clinical skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional competence to work in the dental field. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the exam process, who needs to take it, what it includes, and how Reeves College prepares its students to excel. 
 

Understanding the National Dental Assisting Exam 
 

The National Dental Assisting Examining Board, or NDAEB, is the organization responsible for the certification process for dental assistants across Canada. This exam ensures that every dental assistant, regardless of where they studied, meets the same national standard for safety and competence. Alberta is one of several provinces where passing this exam is a requirement for professional registration. 
 

For aspiring dental assistants, this certification is your ticket to work legally in Alberta. It shows employers and the provincial regulatory body that you’re fully prepared to provide high-quality care in real-world settings. 
 

Why This Certification Is Required in Alberta 
 

In Alberta, dental assistants are regulated by the College of Alberta Dental Assistants. One of their key requirements for registration is the successful completion of the NDAEB exam. That means if you want to become a Registered Dental Assistant in the province, passing this exam is not optional; it’s essential. 
 

The certification confirms that you are competent in clinical procedures, infection control, radiography, chairside techniques, patient care, and dental office management. These skills are vital to keeping patients safe and ensuring dental offices run smoothly. 
 

Who Is Eligible to Take the NDAEB Exam 
 

To be eligible for the exam, you need to complete a dental assisting program that’s accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. This includes programs that cover both theoretical and clinical skills. Reeves College offers one such accredited program, meaning that its graduates meet all the prerequisites for the exam without needing additional evaluations. 
 

If you studied outside Canada or completed a non-accredited program, you may still be eligible to take the exam, but you will likely need to undergo additional credential assessments and complete a Clinical Practice Evaluation. This evaluation is a hands-on assessment that ensures you’re competent in practical skills before you are certified. 
 

What the NDAEB Exam Covers 
 

The exam is comprehensive and designed to reflect real-world dental practice. It’s structured to test not only what you know but also how you apply that knowledge in clinical scenarios. Here's what to expect: 
 

• Infection control and sterilization procedures 
• Dental radiography and safety protocols 
• Chairside assisting including patient support and treatment procedures 
• Preventive dentistry like fluoride application and oral hygiene education 
• Dental sciences including anatomy, pathology, and physiology 
• Ethics, legal responsibilities, and patient confidentiality 
• Administrative duties such as appointment scheduling and record keeping 

 
The test format includes 200 multiple-choice questions, many of which are case based. These scenarios are like what you would encounter in a clinical setting, making it important to not just memorize facts but to truly understand concepts and procedures. 
 

How to Register and What It Costs 
 

The exam is offered four times a year in March, June, September, and December. You must register online through the NDAEB website during the registration window for your chosen exam date. 
 

The fee to take the exam is currently $730, which includes a $100 application fee and a $630 exam fee. If you need to retake the exam, the same fee applies. Additional costs may be required for those who need a credential assessment or must complete the Clinical Practice Evaluation. 
 

Testing centers are located throughout Alberta in cities like Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, and more, making it convenient for students across the province. 
 

Top Strategies to Prepare for the NDAEB 
 

Getting ready for a national certification exam might seem overwhelming, but the right strategy can make all the difference. Here’s how to build a solid study plan: 
 

Start Early with a Study Schedule 
 

Give yourself ample time to study. Start preparing for at least six to eight weeks before the exam. Break down the exam topics into weekly sections and set realistic goals. For example, one week for infection control, another for radiography, and so on. 
 

Prioritize Understanding Over Memorization 
 

This exam is heavily scenario-based, so it helps to know not just what to do, but why you're doing it. Understanding procedures and their consequences will make you more confident in answering clinical judgment questions. 
 

Use Multiple Study Techniques 
 

Active recall is key. Use flashcards, create dental charts, draw diagrams, explain concepts out loud, or quiz with classmates. These techniques boost long-term memory and understanding. 
 

Simulate Real Exam Conditions 
 

Take at least one full-length practice test. Set a timer for four hours, eliminate distractions, and answer 200 questions. This helps build your stamina and improves your pacing. 
 

Join a Study Group 
 

Studying with peers is a great way to stay motivated and reinforce learning. Teaching a topic to someone else is one of the most effective ways to master it. 
 

Look After Your Physical and Mental Health 
 

Rest and recovery matter. Sleep well, eat balanced meals, and stay hydrated. Managing stress is just as important as studying. 
 

How Reeves College Helps You Succeed on the NDAEB 
 

Reeves College is dedicated to student success, and it shows. Dental Assisting program is built around the same competencies as the NDAEB tests, making exam preparation a natural part of your training experience. 
 

Here’s how Reeves College stands out: 
 

Accredited and Aligned Curriculum 
 

Reeves College’s curriculum is approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada, so you know it covers everything you’ll face on the NDAEB. You’re not just learning to pass a test you’re training for a career. 
 

Hands-On Experience 
 

You’ll train in labs, dental clinics, and real dental offices. This gives you the kind of practical exposure that makes exam scenarios feel familiar. You’ll practice procedures like radiographs, sealants, coronal polishing, and fluoride applications in real settings. 
 

Dedicated Instructors and Academic Support 
 

Reeves instructors are industry professionals who understand what it takes to pass the NDAEB. They offer targeted feedback, coaching, and extra help if you need it. 
 

Structured Review and Mock Exams 
 

The program includes exam preparation sessions and mock exams designed to mirror the NDAEB format. You’ll know what to expect on test day and walk in feeling confident. 
 

Success Stories That Speak for Themselves 

 
Reeves College’s results are impressive. Graduates consistently achieve high pass rates on the NDAEB exam: 
 

• In June 2024, Reeves College’s Edmonton South campus achieved a 100 percent pass rate. 
• By September 2025, 95 percent of students passed, with an average score of 73.9 percent. 
   

These numbers are not just statistics; they reflect a college culture that prioritizes quality education, exam readiness, and student success. 
 

What Comes Next After You Pass the Exam 
 

Once you receive your NDAEB certificate, the next step is registering with the College of Alberta Dental Assistants. This allows you to begin practicing as a Registered Dental Assistant. Many Reeves College graduates find jobs quickly, often through the clinics and offices where they completed their practicum placements. With the credential in hand and practical experience on your resume, you’ll be ready to step confidently into your new career. 
 

The Bottom Line 
 

The National Dental Assisting Exam is a vital step toward becoming a licensed professional in Alberta. But with the right education, preparation, and mindset, it’s a step you can take confidently. 
 

At Reeves College, students don’t just train; they thrive. From hands-on practice to tailored exam prep and a support network of instructors and peers, everything is geared toward helping you succeed. If your goal is to become a certified dental assistant in Alberta, Reeves College can help you get there. 
 

Ready to Get Started? 
 

Learn more about Reeves College’s Dental Assisting program today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in oral health. Your future as a certified dental assistant is within reach.