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Viva Exam Strategy

How to Structure Viva Answers in Dentistry

A universal, examiner-approved framework used in ORE, ADC, MFDS, NDEB, NBDE, and undergraduate viva examinations.

Quick Answers

What is the best structure for any viva answer?

Start broad → narrow down → justify → manage → mention safety → summarise.

What do examiners score the most?

Clarity, logical flow, justification, evidence-based reasoning, and patient safety.

What kills marks immediately?

Jumping straight to treatment without a structured explanation or rationale.

How do you stay calm during a viva?

Use a fixed framework so your brain follows steps even under pressure.

1. Understand what a viva really tests

Viva exams are not about remembering every detail. They assess:

  • clinical reasoning
  • communication skills
  • risk awareness
  • ability to justify decisions

The more “examiner-like” your reasoning sounds, the higher the score.

2. Use the Universal Viva Framework

This structure works for almost ANY question across all dental exams:

Universal Viva Framework

1. Start broad (define the topic)
2. Narrow down (classify / list / categorize)
3. Explain the key points
4. Justify with evidence or reasoning
5. Outline management or protocol
6. Mention safety / red flags
7. Summarise confidently

3. Example viva answer using the framework

Question: “Explain irreversible pulpitis.”

Model Viva Answer

1. Broad start: Irreversible pulpitis is a persistent inflammatory condition of the dental pulp.

2. Narrow down: It is classified as symptomatic or asymptomatic.

3. Key points: Lingering pain to cold/heat, spontaneous pain, hyperalgesia.

4. Justification: Based on AAE diagnostic criteria and patient symptoms.

5. Management: Root canal treatment or extraction depending on restorability.

6. Safety: Assess medical history and pain control.

7. Summary: So in summary, irreversible pulpitis is a severe form of pulpal inflammation requiring definitive treatment.

4. High-yield phrases examiners love

Using professional language makes your answer sound organised:

  • “The key features include…”
  • “The underlying mechanism is…”
  • “According to the guidelines…”
  • “The safest next step is…”
  • “To summarise briefly…”

5. Common viva mistakes

  • Speaking without structure
  • Giving long textbook explanations
  • Not mentioning safety concerns
  • Panicking and jumping to treatment

6. How DentAIstudy helps you master viva exams

DentAIstudy can turn any topic into:

  • Structured viva answers
  • Examiner-style reasoning
  • Flashcards for rapid recall
  • One-page summaries for revision

Try Study Builder →

References

All references are reputable, evidence-based, and aligned with dental exam standards.

  • General Dental Council (GDC). ORE and LDS Examination Standards.
  • Australian Dental Council (ADC). Examination Guidelines.
  • NDEB Canada. Candidate Examination Guide.
  • American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Competency Frameworks.
  • Khan K, Ramachandran S. “Effective viva preparation for clinical dentistry students.” Medical Teacher.