DLOSCE Replaces Diagnostic Skills Exam in ADEX Licensure Sequence

Edited by Dentaltown staff

The ADA’s Dental Licensure Objective Structured Clinical Examination became part of the ADEX Dental Examination on Aug. 1, replacing the Diagnostic Skills Examination Objective Structured Clinical Examination that the American Board of Dental Examiners had used.

The change carries out a licensing agreement between the ADA and the American Board of Dental Examiners announced April 14. The DSE OSCE sunset Aug. 1.

Before the change, the DLOSCE was administered as a standalone examination. Candidates who need to retake a standalone DLOSCE have until Oct. 9, after which standalone administrations end.

The DLOSCE uses images and three-dimensional models in scenarios built to mirror practice conditions, assessing treatment planning and clinical judgment. The ADEX Dental Examination continues to assess candidates’ clinical hand skills alongside their treatment planning and decision-making.

ADEX examination results are accepted or required by 48 states, along with Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

ADA President Richard Rosato called the agreement an important milestone for the dental profession. Mark Armstrong, chair of the American Board of Dental Examiners, said the agreement continues earlier work between the two organizations by strengthening alignment across assessment components.

Sources:
ADA News, “ADA, American Board of Dental Examiners advance dental licensure exams through new agreement,” April 14, 2026: adanews.ada.org/2026/april/advance-dental-licensure-exams