The Texas RDA exam, demystified.

How to use this guide

Work the topics below in order. For each one, read the focus note, then prove it with our free practice exam and flashcards. When a topic still feels shaky, that's your signal to drill it more — the exam rewards consistency, not cramming.

The topics to master

1. Infection control & safety — standard precautions, PPE, sterilization vs. disinfection, instrument processing, OSHA basics. High-yield: know it cold.
2. Dental radiography (X-rays) — exposure technique, paralleling vs. bisecting, errors and retakes, ALARA, patient protection.
3. Dental anatomy & tooth numbering — Universal numbering (1–32), surfaces, primary vs. permanent, landmarks.
4. Chairside assisting — four-handed technique, instrument transfer, isolation, moisture control, tray setups by procedure.
5. Dental materials — amalgam, composite, cements, impression materials — mixing, handling, and when each is used.
6. Charting & dental terminology — abbreviations, conditions vs. treatment, existing vs. needed work. Practice with our charting trainer.
7. Patient management — medical histories, vitals, comfort, communication, special-needs considerations.
8. Office procedures & records — appointment flow, recordkeeping, confidentiality (HIPAA basics).
9. Texas jurisprudence & scope of practice — what an RDA may and may not do in Texas; know the rules.
10. Medical emergencies — recognizing and responding to common in-office emergencies; the emergency kit.

A simple 2-week plan

• Days 1–3: Infection control + radiography (the heaviest-weighted areas).
• Days 4–7: Anatomy, charting, and materials — flashcards daily.
• Days 8–10: Chairside, patient management, office/records.
• Days 11–12: Jurisprudence + emergencies.
• Days 13–14: Full timed practice exams; re-drill anything under 75%.