1. Why understanding ADEX scoring matters
The difference between passing and failing ADEX is usually not talent — it is how closely you work to the scoring sheet.
Candidates who know the criteria can predict their score before they submit. Those who “just prep” often get surprised by fail marks they could have avoided.
2. How the scoring system is structured
ADEX grading is based on defined performance levels. Each task has a list of features examiners look for, divided into:
- Critical errors – unsafe or unacceptable.
- Standard criteria – dimensions, form, margins, anatomy.
- Positive features – smoothness, contour, finish quality.
Simple scoring view
● Meet all critical safety criteria → eligible to pass.
● Meet enough standard criteria → score above the cut-point.
● Extra polish and anatomy → support a comfortable pass but do
not rescue critical errors.
3. Typical critical errors in ADEX
Critical errors vary by task but share one idea: the tooth is clinically unacceptable.
- Pulp exposure or dangerously deep floors
- Perforation or incorrect tooth prepared
- Obvious damage to adjacent tooth
- Open margins at gingival area in Class II
- Provisional crown with gross overhangs, open contacts, or rocking on the preparation
If you repeat these errors in practice and “hope” they will pass in exam conditions, you are training yourself to fail.
4. Standard deductions that slowly kill your score
Even without critical errors, many small problems together can pull you below the cut-point.
- Occlusal reduction slightly too shallow or too deep
- Proximal box width inconsistent
- Axial wall not following contour
- Margins slightly rough or irregular
- Minor ledges or unsupported enamel areas
These do not automatically fail you, but several in one preparation will.
5. Common reasons candidates fail ADEX
Across manikin attempts, the same failure patterns appear again and again:
- Not marking guidelines before starting the bur
- Rushing the proximal box and breaking the contact
- Ignoring gingival floor depth and width
- Adjusting until the last minute instead of knowing when to stop
- Submitting with obvious open margins or contact issues
High-yield mindset
“I do not chase perfection; I chase a safe pass. No critical errors, margins closed, dimensions within range.”
6. Using criteria to guide your practice sessions
Practising without the scoring sheet is like revising without the syllabus. Every practice prep should be checked against the same headings examiners use:
- Outline form
- Depth and axial reduction
- Proximal box and contact area
- Margins and smoothness
- Protection of adjacent tooth
After each manikin session, score yourself honestly or ask a mentor to grade you using the criteria.
7. Linking scoring to specific ADEX tasks
Scoring makes more sense when you see it applied to individual procedures. Once you understand the system, your next step should be to study it task by task:
- ADEX Class II preparation – dimensions, boxes, gingival margin rules
- ADEX Class III preparation – contact protection and access
- ADEX provisional crown – occlusion, margins, and proximal contact
Reading these guides together lets you predict how many marks you are likely to gain or lose for each choice.
If you have not yet seen the overview, start with our ADEX introduction article on exam structure and components. Then return here to connect the scoring logic.
8. How DentAIstudy helps you train against the scoring sheet
DentAIstudy can turn the ADEX criteria into short, repeatable checklists:
- Bullet-point summaries of critical and standard errors for each task
- OSCE-style questions built around common failing scenarios
- Flashcards for “automatic fail” situations you must avoid
- Structured prompts you can use while reviewing your own manikin work
References
- CDCA-WREB-CITA. ADEX Dental Examination Candidate Manual, latest edition.
- Standardised clinical grading rubrics used in dental licensure assessments.
- Examiner feedback reports and common error summaries from recent ADEX administrations.