Frequently ASked QUestions

1. When are ABCDSM credentialing examinations offered?
   
   ABCDSM credentialing examinations are usually offered once per year. Dates are scheduled to coincide annual symposiums sponsored by the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain.
   

• Applications for the August 10th, 2023 exam (including a completed application plus all required documentation and fees) are due in the ABCDSM Executive Office May 31, 2023.
  
  

Examination dates are routinely announced and updated on this website; however, please contact us if you have questions or require additional information.

2. Am I eligible to sit for the ABCDSM written examination?

The written examination for ABCDSM Diplomate status is open to all dentists who:

1. Possess a DDS or DMD degree (or its equivalent);
   
2. Hold a valid and unrestricted license to practice dentistry; and,
   
3. Have been personally involved in assessment and management of sleep-disordered breathing for at least two (2) years immediately preceding their application (experience gained while earning a DDS or DMD degree, or its equivalent, notwithstanding).
   

3. What is the best way to prepare for the ABCDSM credentialing process?

The ABCDSM certification process is both comprehensive and rigorous. In addition to information about the composition of this examination, we have also included a recommended reading list on the Resources tab above as well as sample test questions, review notes, sample patient case summaries and expanded patient case studies on the Exam Info tab to assist you in preparing for your examination.

We also invite you to visit with any of the dentists listed in our Diplomate Directory to find out about what it is like to go through the ABCDSM credentialing process and discuss the benefits of being ABCDSM board-certified.

4. When do I have to submit documentation of completion of the supplementary requirements for ABCDSM Diplomate status?

Candidates for "Diplomate, American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine" status must submit documentation of completion of supplementary requirements upon application.

5. Do AMA PRA credits count toward fulfillment of the continuing education requirement for ABCDSM credentialing?

At least fifty (50) hours of dental sleep medicine continuing education credits are required. Candidates for ABCDSM Diplomate status may include ADA CERP and/or AGD PACE approved courses. Up to ten (10) AMA PRA Category 1™ credits may also be included as part of the required fifty (50) hours.

6. How should I submit my supplementary requirements documentation?

Candidates may submit documentation of completion of the supplementary requirements for ABCDSM Diplomate status to the ABCDSM Executive Office electronically (via the Application form) or in print format and faxed to AACP Headquarters at 618-281-9734 or mailed to 1000 11 South Suite 3F Columbia, Illinois 62236

Use of the forms available in the "Supplementary Requirements" section of this Web site is required, and candidates are urged to retain copies of all documentation in their personal files. We further recommend that candidates for ABCDSM Diplomate status who opt to send materials to the ABCDSM Executive Office via postal mail do so via certified mail or other traceable means.

7. Are there rules or guidelines concerning how I can advertise my Diplomate status?

We adhere to the American Dental Association Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct, and advise all Diplomates to follow this code when advertising their status. We also recommend that each dentist consult his or her state or legal regulatory agency and adhere to their requirements.

Diplomate status does not denote specialty status. Furthermore, it does not confer or imply any legal qualification, licensure, or privilege in professional activities..