Top Study Tips for DANB RHS Exam

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So, you’ve made it through the endless memorization of identifying dental instruments and the steps involved in assisting on a composite restoration. You’ve mastered taking beautiful bite wings and have managed to only suction patients’ tongue instead of their lips and can now see the light at the end of the tunnel. You have proven to yourself and those close to you that you have what it takes to be a dental assistant! Now that you’ve graduated, it’s time to get a job and, in most states, you are required to pass a radiology exam prior to exposing patients to dental radiographs.

As a recent dental assisting graduate, passing the radiology exam is an important milestone in your career. However, the complex nature of the exam can be intimidating to a new graduate embarking on their career as a dental assistant. As a dental educator I have heard the worry and seen the fear in students as they prepare to take their exam for the first time. But no need to worry, we have you covered. To help you excel in this critical assessment, we have compiled a list of effective study tips that will boost your chances of success and confidence.

Students are surprised to learn they have more resources at their disposal than they realize. Prepping for the exam shouldn’t break the bank or your confidence. You’ve already made the initial investment which is your time. The more prepared you are the better your chances on acing the exam on your first attempt.

Most dental assisting programs cover standardized information outlined in the Dental Assisting National Boards (DANB), Radiology Health and Safety Exam (RHS). A few resources to consider is DANB’s RHS Exam Blueprint and your dental assisting program textbook. You will also want to revisit head and neck anatomy along with infection control which is often underestimated when taking DANB’s RHS exam.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Blueprint: The first step towards exam success is understanding the exam's content and structure. Obtain a copy of the radiology exam blueprint by visiting www.danb.org, which outlines the key topics and subtopics that will be assessed. This blueprint acts as a roadmap, enabling you to allocate your study time effectively and prioritize the most important areas.

2. Utilize Textbooks and Study Materials from School: Refer to the textbooks and study materials provided by your dental assisting program. These resources are specifically designed to cover the fundamental knowledge required for the radiology exam. Review the relevant chapters, take notes, and highlight key concepts to enhance your understanding. Cross reference the information with the DANB RHS blueprint.

3. Break Up Study Sessions: Studying for long hours at a stretch can be counterproductive. Instead, adopt a study schedule that includes frequent breaks. Aim to spend no more than an hour at a time studying radiology. Shorter study sessions will help you maintain focus and retain information more effectively.

4. Focus on Head and Neck Anatomy: Radiology heavily relies on a solid understanding of head and neck anatomy. Allocate a significant portion of your study time to reviewing and memorizing the structures, landmarks, and relationships within this region. Diagrams, flashcards, and online resources can be invaluable aids in reinforcing your knowledge.

5. Emphasize Infection Control: Infection control is a critical aspect of dental assisting, and it is often examined in the radiology test. Pay close attention to infection control protocols, including proper handling of radiographic equipment, disinfection procedures, and patient safety measures. Understanding these protocols thoroughly will boost your confidence during the exam.

6. Engage in Interactive Learning: Consider incorporating interactive study methods into your routine. For example, practice interpreting radiographs with the help of online quizzes, case studies, or interactive software. This hands-on approach will strengthen your analytical skills and familiarize you with the practical application of radiology concepts.

7. Join Our Free Webinar: To further enhance your exam preparation, we invite you to join our upcoming FREE WEBINAR at www.abacidental.com. Our experienced dental professionals will provide additional study tips, clarify challenging concepts, and address your specific concerns. The interactive nature of the webinar will offer a valuable platform for discussion and collaboration with fellow dental assistants.

By utilizing the resources outlined and brushing up on anatomy and infection control you will be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the radiology exam. Remember to join our free webinar for further guidance and support on your journey to success. Best of luck!