ADC Written (Dental Therapy) study plan

Map every Domain 1 scope-of-practice statement against the published ADC written exam blueprint and flag gaps

Build a one-page anatomy reference of the periodontium, dentition and supporting structures from memory, then correct it

Define 25 core dental-therapy procedure terms and write a working definition for each

Sequence the stages of a typical assessment-to-treatment pathway and annotate where scope boundaries sit

Explain the caries process, including demineralisation and remineralisation, in writing without notes

Compare the main periodontal disease classifications and justify each category with clinical features

Describe the microbiology of dental plaque biofilm and name organisms associated with health and disease

Apply assessment findings to select an appropriate preventive or therapeutic intervention within scope

Trace the physiology of saliva and explain its protective and buffering roles

Interpret a simulated set of clinical measurements (probing depths, bleeding scores, plaque indices) and summarise the findings

Identify the systemic conditions and medications most relevant to oral health and describe their oral effects

Explain how fluoride works at the tooth surface and state the evidence-based indications for its use

Design a structured oral health promotion session for a defined patient group, specifying behaviour-change techniques used

Critically compare at least three oral health promotion approaches and state when each is appropriate

Demonstrate (in writing) how to tailor preventive advice for a patient with limited dexterity or low health literacy

Link each preventive recommendation to the evidence base supporting it

Outline informed consent requirements for dental treatment and identify what must be documented

Explain privacy, record-keeping and mandatory reporting obligations relevant to dental practice

Describe cultural safety principles and apply them to a scenario involving an Indigenous or culturally diverse patient

Identify communication strategies for patients with anxiety, hearing impairment or limited English proficiency

Distinguish the roles and boundaries of the dental therapist within the wider dental team and describe appropriate referral pathways

Analyse a scope-of-practice dilemma and justify a decision using professional standards

Explain how professional regulation, registration and continuing competence requirements apply to practice

Draft a patient communication script for disclosing a treatment complication or error

Complete a full timed practice paper under exam conditions and record the score for each domain

Rank the three weakest sub-topics across all domains and write a targeted revision list for each

Re-teach each weak sub-topic aloud or in writing to confirm understanding

Review every incorrect answer and record the reason for the error, not just the correct answer

Re-test all previously flagged weak areas and confirm each is now answered correctly

Summarise each domain onto a single revision sheet of key facts and decision rules

Practise 30 rapid recall items across all domains under time pressure

Finalise an exam-day plan covering timing, question strategy and stress management