NZDREX study guide
NZDREX · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The New Zealand Diploma in Restorative and Esthetic Dentistry (NZDREX) is a professional credential for dentists who want to demonstrate advanced competence in restorative and esthetic dentistry. It is aimed at practitioners who already hold a primary dental qualification and are looking to formalise their skills in direct and indirect restorations, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, and materials science, while also upholding high standards of professionalism and infection control. The NZDREX study guide has 8 sections and about 2,527 words.
01Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
Diagnosis and Treatment Planning underpins every other NZDREX domain: examiners test whether you can gather information, interpret it correctly and sequence care safely rather than jump to a procedure. Expect history-taking, special tests, radiographic justification, problem lists, treatment sequencing and consent.
331 words, about 2 min02Operative Dentistry and Direct Restorations
Operative Dentistry and Direct Restorations tests whether you can remove caries and restore contour, contact and occlusion without destroying sound tissue or creating sensitivity. Questions emphasise adhesion, isolation, matrix techniques, deep-lesion management and material selection.
330 words, about 2 min03Endodontics
Endodontics in NZDREX tests diagnosis and technical judgement together. You must name the pulpal and periapical diagnosis, justify treatment, then show safe access, canal negotiation, disinfection and obturation.
301 words, about 2 min04Periodontics
Periodontics tests screening, classification and staged management. New Zealand practice centres on the Basic Periodontal Examination, the 2017 world workshop classification, and non-surgical therapy before surgery.
310 words, about 2 min05Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics
Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics tests whether you can plan a prosthesis that fits the remaining dentition, restores occlusion and is maintainable. Cases cover crown and bridge design, removable partial denture design, complete dentures and occlusal records.
329 words, about 2 min06Implant Dentistry
Implant Dentistry tests whether you can select patients, plan safely in three dimensions and manage complications. The exam expects radiographic and anatomical reasoning, not just surgical steps.
298 words, about 1 min07Esthetic Dentistry and Materials Science
Esthetic Dentistry and Materials Science tests material selection, shade communication and the sequencing of whitening, bonding and ceramic work. Choose shade before the tooth dehydrates, in neutral daylight, and record value first, then chroma and hue, plus a cervical shade and any characterisation.
300 words, about 2 min08Professionalism, Ethics, and Infection Control
Professionalism, Ethics and Infection Control tests whether you can practise lawfully and safely in New Zealand. It combines the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003, the Dental Council's standards, the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights, privacy law, cultural safety and infection prevention.
328 words, about 2 min