Frequently Asked Questions

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Astra is designed for internationally trained dentists seeking to develop manual bench skills commonly evaluated during U.S. Advanced Standing admissions. Through instructor-led simulation exercises, participants strengthen precision, consistency, and confidence in a structured dental simulation laboratory.

 Astra's simulation exercises focus on the foundational operative and fixed-prosthodontic preparations commonly evaluated during U.S. Advanced Standing bench examinations. Depending on the cohort, exercises may include full-coverage crown preparations, intracoronal preparations, preparation design, reduction control, margin development, and timed simulation exercises.

The exact sequence of preparations, daily exercises, and evaluation criteria is provided to participants in the detailed Prep guide.

No. Whether you are preparing for your first bench examination or looking to improve after a previous attempt, our Prep Track is designed to meet you at your current skill level.

No. Essential simulation equipment and supplemental instructional materials are provided unless otherwise communicated before your simulation sessions begin. Participants practice using high-quality simulation equipment, Columbia typodonts, and professional instruments designed to closely replicate the manual bench environment commonly encountered during Advanced Standing admissions.  

No. Astra does not award degrees, diplomas, academic credit, continuing education credit, or professional credentials. Admission, licensure, and employment decisions rest solely with dental schools, licensing boards, and employers. It is a private dental simulation facility focused on manual skills development.