Oral Certifying Examination: A Summary of the 2024 Exam



Mar 27, 2024 | admin

The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) remains steadfast in upholding the highest standards of specialty practice. Our Oral Certifying Examination (OCE) is foundational in this mission and rigorously assesses the clinical application and decision-making capabilities of Board Candidates. Below is a summary of this year’s OCE exam. 

Exam overview

We conducted the 2024 Oral Certifying Examination from February 5th - 9th in Raleigh, NC. The intensive oral-based exam evaluated the Candidates’ knowledge and judgment to diagnose, plan, and manage complex clinical scenarios across a wide array of conditions and treatments they must master to achieve optimal surgical outcomes and provide exemplary patient care.

We design the OCE to reflect our specialty’s broad scope and the evolving nature of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

oral-certifying-examination-a-summary-of-the-2024-exam-embed.jpg

Candidates and Examiners

This year, we examined 383 Candidates, with 90 ABOMS Examination Committee members overseeing the examination process. These Examiners, who are themselves experts in our specialty, ensured Candidates were thoroughly assessed based on a range of relevant clinical scenarios to maintain the integrity and high standards of ABOMS. 

Scope and content

The 144 minute exam featured three sections:

  • Section I focused on facial structure corrections, managing infections, and pathologies affecting the temporomandibular joint and surrounding tissues.
  • Section II reflected the critical skills required for managing facial injuries, implantology, reconstructive surgeries, and dentoalveolar procedures.
  • Section III encompassed a diverse range of topics including adult and pediatric medical assessments and anesthesia, emergency management, aesthetic surgery, sleep apnea, pre-prosthetic surgery, and soft tissue grafting, among others. 

The multifaceted nature of oral and maxillofacial surgery emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Outcomes and achievements

The 2024 Oral Certifying Examination held a commendable pass rate of 91%. This achievement showcases the high level of proficiency among our Candidates, along with the rigorous training required of those who choose to specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

We are delighted with the OCE’s success and extremely proud of our future Diplomates! We are deeply grateful for the dedication and time given by the Examination Committee members and ABOMS volunteers to ensure the next generation of ABOMS-certified OMS surgeons are well-equipped to continue the mission of our Board. 

About ABOMS

Our extensive examinations and Certification Maintenance processes validate the expertise and advanced knowledge of our Board-Certified surgeons. We invite those interested in furthering their professional journey and achieving excellence in oral and maxillofacial surgery to learn more, and join us as we continue to ensure the safety, quality of care, and satisfaction of patients.