Changes to the practical examination

General Dentistry

Removal of the amalgam task from period 2, 2026

In line with the Minamata Convention on mercury and contemporary dental practice, candidates are advised that the amalgam placement task will be removed from ADC practical examinations, starting from period 2, 2026.

This change reflects the ongoing global and professional shift away from the use of dental amalgam, as well as current clinical practice standards that prioritise mercury-free restorative materials.

All other components of the practical examination will remain unchanged unless otherwise advised. Updated examination guidance will be published before period 2, 2026 to support candidate preparation.

Introduction of new teeth from period 2, 2026

Also starting period 2, 2026 the ADC will introduce new high-performance simulation teeth for the completion of the preparation and restoration tasks in the Technical Skills day in the simulation clinic. The new “Platinum range” teeth are compatible with existing models and aim to provide candidates with an improved and more realistic simulation experience.

The teeth have specifically been engineered to deliver improved tactile feedback, uniform cutting response and optimal aesthetics.

Dental Hygiene and/or Dental Therapy

In the spring edition of The Candidate Lounge, the ADC announced upcoming changes to the ADC practical examinations for dental hygiene and/or dental therapy. Starting June 2026, all practical examinations will be based around clusters, in line with the Professional competencies of the newly qualified dental practitioner. The clusters of competency and the professions they apply to are as follows:

Task list for Dental Hygiene/Therapy examinations starting June 2026