How to Stay Motivated in Completing Your NDEB Exams

Embarking on the journey to become a licensed dentist in Canada may feel like an uphill battle. However, fear not! Finding the motivation to complete your NDEB exams, no matter the obstacle or challenge in front of you – pays off in the end.</span>

As you move through the equivalency process, slowly capturing passing grades in each exam, you’ll be able to build momentum toward your end goal – being a fully licensed dentist. 

At Prep Doctors, we understand the unique challenges you face, and we’re here to provide you with personalized tips and resources to help you conquer the equivalency process with confidence and a dash of excitement.

We recently had the opportunity to learn from Dr. Benitta Saado, who recently passed through the equivalency process. She graduated in 2018 from St. Joseph University in Lebanon and moved to Quebec to join her parents. It was there that she began the equivalency process. Here are some of her essential tips to help you remain motivated as you do the same.

Tip #1 – Discover Your “Why”

Close your eyes for a moment, and let’s revisit the very reason that sparked your passion for dentistry. For many ITDs and students, it is the drive to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives. Many dentists can vividly remember the joy on a patient’s face when they transform a smile to be healthier and happier. 

Reconnecting with your “why” will serve as your guiding light throughout this exhilarating journey, keeping you motivated and focused on your goal of becoming a dentist in Canada.

Tip #2 – Immerse Yourself in the Dental Environment

Working inside a dental office is a great way to learn about the various tools, techniques, and practical application of knowledge. Even if you have working experience ‘back home’ this will help you adapt to the Canadian methods of dentistry while igniting your passion and determination to grow. Surrounding yourself with passionate dentists, friendly hygienists, and enthusiastic dental assistants allows you to witness dental care’s positive impact on patients’ lives firsthand.

This invaluable experience will keep your motivation soaring high as you visualize your future success.

Tip #3 – Craft a Clear Study Plan

Organization is the key to success. We recommend breaking down the journey into manageable chunks. Create a study plan that brings structure and clarity to your preparation. Identify the topics you must cover and set achievable goals for each day or week. 

By taking it step by step, you’ll prevent overload and ensure comprehensive coverage of all critical areas. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your dental dreams come to life overnight.

Tip #4 – Embrace Understanding over Memorization

This is a common mistake many students experience when facing the numerous exams for getting licensed as a dentist in Canada. Instead of trying to memorize everything, get a better understanding of the core concepts. Rather than relying solely on rote memorization, seek to grasp the underlying principles and reasoning behind each dental topic. At Prep Doctors, our lectures always take this approach whether they be AFK, ACJ, or NDECC Situational Judgment. 

By cultivating a deep understanding, we help you increase your chances of success in exams and enhance your clinical knowledge and judgment. Be curious, ask questions, and uncover the “why” behind the facts. This approach will benefit both your exam performance and your future patients.

Tips to Grow Understanding

• Talk with peers
• Join study groups
• Read online forums
• Watch practical videos
• Maximize your time on PrepTest™

Tip #5 – Utilize Available Resources

The online world is full of insightful and easy-to-use resources. Anyone seeking detailed info on complex dental topics can easily find them in textbooks, online materials, study groups, and practice exams. When your motivation starts to fade because the exams seem overwhelming, try different combinations of resources, and find what works best for you.

Remember, having a broad mix of resources keeps things interesting. By using different materials, you’ll get a well-rounded understanding of dentistry in Canada and how to proceed through each stage of the NDEB exams.

Our team at Prep Doctors offers a simplified platform where you can find study materials, pre-made pathways, and get the personalized guidance you need from experts to help you succeed.

Tip #6 – Seek Support and Guidance

Dr. Benitta found solace and motivation in connecting with fellow dentists who were either on the same journey or had successfully completed it. Joining study groups, participating in online forums, and engaging with professional networks provide valuable insights and creates a supportive community. Sharing triumphs, challenges, and resources with like-minded individuals will motivate and inspire you. Remember, you are never alone in this exhilarating pursuit.

Motivation gets much more complicated when no fuel keeps you moving forward. That gas for your education engine begins and ends with a strong community around you. True, there are some individuals that can tackle the different NDEB exams on their own, but it is much easier with peers, friends, mentors, and patients who appreciate your hard work.

Tip #7 – Stay Resilient and Persevere

The NDEB equivalency process may present unexpected challenges, delays, or moments of self-doubt. However, countless dentists before you have conquered the process, and you can too. We all know how hard it was to keep moving during COVID but we made it through. Internationally trained dentists need to cultivate resilience, keep a positive mindset, and view setbacks as opportunities for growth. 

Believe in your abilities, celebrate small victories, and keep pushing forward. Your unwavering determination will be rewarded when you finally achieve your dream of practicing dentistry in Canada.

You got this!

In short, embarking on the journey to become a licensed dentist in Canada is no small feat. However, with personalized tips and unwavering support from the people we meet at Prep Doctors, success is within your reach.

Reconnect with your passion, immerse yourself in the Canadian dental environment, and stay resilient throughout the equivalency process. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your dental dreams.

Join Prep Doctors, access our comprehensive study resources, connect with a supportive community, and receive personalized guidance tailored to your needs. Together, let’s transform your dreams into reality. Visit us now and take the first step toward your future as a successful dentist in Canada!