The Royal College of Dentists of Canada was established by an Act of the Federal Government of Canada in 1965 to promote high standards of specialization in the dental profession and to recognize properly trained dental specialists. This is accomplished through examinations created specifically for each dental specialty.

The National Dental Specialty Examination (NDSE; the Examination) is administered by The Royal College of Dentists of Canada and is used by many provincial dental regulatory authorities as part of the requirement for licensure as a specialist.

The NDSE is offered in nine different specialties, as well as for Dental Sciences. The NDSE is created and conducted by a variety of individuals. The Chief Examiner for each specialty selects the team of examiners, co-ordinates the examination, and ensures that it is fairly conducted. Examiners are selected as a result of their activity and expertise in the specialty and to avoid possible or potential conflict of interest with candidates. Examiners external to the College may be used at the discretion of the Chief Examiner. The Chief Examiner will be part of the Examinations Committee, whenever possible, to chair the Examination and to ensure fair conduct.