ABPros Prosthodontics

American Board of Prosthodontics Certification Examination

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About this exam

The American Board of Prosthodontics (ABP) certifies and recertifies educationally qualified individuals who demonstrate in-depth knowledge and expertise in prosthodontics. Its stated vision is that all educationally qualified prosthodontists become Board certified, and candidates may pursue certification through three pathways. The examination content is described by the ABP as reflecting the broad scope of prosthodontics, and the exam menu lists a Qualifying Examination and an Oral Certifying Examination, organized into Sections A, B, C, and D. According to the ABP, the certification process was modified effective October 22, 2025 to include an alternate pathway for the coming year (2026), the Oral Certifying Examination, for which successful completion of the Qualifying Exam is part of eligibility. The ABP reports that prosthodontists seek certification at many career stages, from residency onward, and cites validating expertise, developing specialty expertise, staying current with advances, and demonstrating commitment to quality care as reasons to become board certified. This independent study resource is not affiliated with or endorsed by the ABP; candidates should confirm all requirements, dates, and fees directly with the Board.

What you'll study

Common questions

About ABPros Prosthodontics preparation

What is the ABP certification, and who is it for?

It is certification granted by the American Board of Prosthodontics to educationally qualified individuals who demonstrate in-depth knowledge and expertise in prosthodontics. The Board states that candidates may begin the process during prosthodontic residencies or after years in academia or private practice, so it suits both early-career and experienced prosthodontists.

What exams make up the process?

The ABP site lists a Qualifying Examination and an Oral Certifying Examination, with exam pages for Section A, Section B, Section C, and Section D. The Board describes exam content as reflecting the broad scope of prosthodontics. Check the Board's exam pages for how sections are assigned to each examination.

How many pathways to certification are there?

The ABP states that candidates have 3 Pathways to Certification. The site does not detail each pathway on the page reviewed here, so confirm the requirements for the pathway you intend to use directly with the Board before applying.

What changed about the examination process?

The ABP announced that effective October 22, 2025 the examination process includes an alternate pathway for certification for the coming year (2026), the Oral Certifying Examination. Eligibility for this exam includes successful completion of the Qualifying Exam. Because the announcement describes changes for 2026, verify current requirements with the Board.

How do I apply, and what does it cost?

The ABP site has dedicated pages for Qualifications, How to Apply, and Application & Exam Fees. This guide does not state fees or deadlines because they are not published in the source material reviewed. Obtain the current application requirements and fee schedule from the Board before planning your timeline.

How hard is the exam, and what are common failure modes?

The ABP has not published a difficulty rating in the material reviewed, so treat claims about pass rates with caution. Experience suggests candidates struggle most when knowledge is siloed by section rather than integrated across the broad scope of prosthodontics. Build cases and rationale that connect diagnosis, treatment planning, and execution.

Can I retake the exam if I do not pass?

The source material reviewed does not state a retake policy, number of attempts allowed, or waiting periods. Do not rely on secondhand accounts. Contact the Board directly for the current policy on re-examination and any associated deadlines or fees before you plan a repeat attempt.

How long is certification valid, and how do I recertify?

The ABP site includes a Recertification page and states that its mission is to certify and recertify educationally qualified individuals. Specific validity periods and recertification requirements are not given in the material reviewed here, so confirm them with the Board and review the Recertification page.

In what order should I study?

The Board organizes exam content into Sections A through D and describes it as reflecting the broad scope of prosthodontics. A practical approach is to work section by section, then integrate across sections with case-based review, since the examinations are intended to test in-depth knowledge rather than isolated facts.

How do I verify someone's board status?

The ABP provides a Verify Status tool and a Find an ABP Certified Prosthodontist search on its website. Use those official resources rather than third-party directories, since status can change with new certifications and recertifications.