Welcome September 2024 Crew!

[Greg Gittleman (Course Director) Gittleman (Course Director)]

Carter has hit the nail on the head—success in preparing for this exam is all about consistent practice and engagement. As you dive into the modules, remember that the real growth happens when you engage with the material thoughtfully and regularly. Take each module as a challenge to expand your knowledge and skills.

I also want to echo Carter’s point on the value of discussion. This is a collaborative learning environment, and your participation not only helps you solidify your understanding but also benefits others who may have similar questions or insights. Don’t hesitate to jump into the conversations, whether it’s posting a new question or offering your perspective on someone else’s post.

We are here to support you every step of the way, so please reach out if you need any assistance. Best of luck as you embark on this preparation journey—your hard work and dedication will pay off!

Warm regards,
Greg

[Pegah Kamrani]

Thank you to you and Greg for putting on a great course.

I had a few questions-

1- given that we are no longer required to score for CRE/grade models, what is the purpose of memorizing the eCRE parameter reference chart? Just trying to see how it will be helpful in the exam.

2- do you have any tips for mastering root angulation scores? I know we don’t grade the canines, but Do we grade premolars if they are touching the canines? I feel like I am always 1-2 off (answer will say 4 and I will think 3 or 5).

Thank you both!!

[Chad Carter (Course Director)]

Pegah,

Great questions about the CRE score here… it definitely has changed several times.

1) The ABO states that they are no longer asking for a specific score. For example “Score this Pano” and you have to get an 11 or 12 or you get the question wrong. Instead the examples shown by the ABO is that they will ask “How would you improve the score of this case?” So in order to answer that question you need to know what scores and what does not so that you can make appropriate suggestions. We all know not every case is perfect and even cases that look great make have a few points off. I think it is of value to memorize the scores (which is an ABO goal/task) so that you can then quickly make an assessment and recommendation.

2) If premolars are obviously touching canines then yes – they score – for the premolar. I agree that we all differ a couple points when we score cases. It is because of this challenge that I believe the ABO decided to remove “exact scoring” from the exam.

Does that help?

Good luck! You’re keeping up a great pace!

[Pegah Kamrani]

Thank you SO much Chad! That definitely cleared things up and makes me feel a lot better about the scoring section.

[Greg Gittleman (Course Director) Gittleman (Course Director)]

Pegah, I agree completely with what Chad stated above and thank you for your question! I think this probably deserves a new video as you bring up some great points. While the individual scoring doesn’t need to be memorized, understanding the scoring is still important. Like Chad mentioned, the questions will be geared around how to “improve” the score. With that in mind, I would prep by having some ideas for responses that would work for most cases. For instance, to improve on marginal ridge discrepancies and occlusal relationships, you could discuss improving bracket positioning or wire bends. For improving on overjet scores you could discuss (if appropriate of course) using IPR on maxillary incisors, additional class II mechanics, increasing buccal root torque maxillary incisors, etc. It’s a good exercise to think about the criteria and what treatment factors influence them…plus, when it’s the exam time you already have a bunch of ideas and can decide which ones apply to the scenario on the exam!

[Pegah Kamrani]

Thank you so much Greg! Great points. Will keep all of that in mind!