The Georgia Board of Dentistry is responsible for regulating the practice of dentistry in the state of Georgia. To become a licensed dentist in Georgia, individuals must meet the requirements set by the Board. These requirements are in place to ensure that dentists practicing in the state have the necessary education, training, and skills to provide safe and effective care to patients.
Licensure Requirements
To become licensed as a dentist in Georgia, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Graduate from a dental program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
- Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE)
- Pass a clinical examination, such as the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS) or the Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA)
- Pass a background check and provide fingerprints
- Complete a Georgia Board of Dentistry application and pay the required fee
Education Requirements
Applicants must graduate from a dental program accredited by CODA. These programs typically take four years to complete and include both classroom and clinical instruction. Students learn about subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry, and pharmacology, as well as clinical skills such as filling cavities and extracting teeth.
Clinical Examination Requirements
Applicants must pass a clinical examination to demonstrate their ability to safely and effectively practice dentistry. The CRDTS and SRTA exams are two examples of clinical examinations that are accepted by the Georgia Board of Dentistry. These exams test a candidate’s ability to perform a variety of dental procedures, including restorations, extractions, and crowns.
Background Check Requirements
Applicants must undergo a background check and provide fingerprints as part of the licensure process. This is to ensure that individuals with a history of criminal activity or other issues that may impact their ability to practice dentistry safely and effectively are not licensed.
Application and Fee Requirements
Applicants must complete a Georgia Board of Dentistry application and pay the required fee. The application will ask for personal and professional information, as well as documentation of the applicant’s education, clinical examination results, and background check.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental program |
| Clinical Examination | Pass a clinical exam, such as CRDTS or SRTA |
| Background Check | Undergo a background check and provide fingerprints |
| Application and Fee | Complete a Georgia Board of Dentistry application and pay the required fee |
Maintaining Licensure
Once licensed, dentists in Georgia must meet ongoing requirements to maintain their licensure. These requirements include:
- Completing continuing education courses to stay current with the latest techniques and research
- Renewing licensure every two years
- Reporting any changes in personal or professional information to the Georgia Board of Dentistry
Continuing Education Requirements
Dentists in Georgia must complete continuing education courses to stay current with the latest techniques and research. The Georgia Board of Dentistry requires licensed dentists to complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education every two years.
Licensure Renewal Requirements
Licensed dentists in Georgia must renew their licensure every two years. The renewal process involves completing a renewal application and paying the required fee.
Reporting Requirements
Licensed dentists in Georgia must report any changes in personal or professional information to the Georgia Board of Dentistry. This includes changes in address, employment, or other relevant information.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuing Education | Complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years |
| Licensure Renewal | Renew licensure every two years |
| Reporting | Report any changes in personal or professional information to the Georgia Board of Dentistry |
What are the education requirements for becoming a licensed dentist in Georgia?
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To become a licensed dentist in Georgia, individuals must graduate from a dental program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). These programs typically take four years to complete and include both classroom and clinical instruction.
What clinical examinations are accepted by the Georgia Board of Dentistry?
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The Georgia Board of Dentistry accepts the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS) and the Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA) clinical examinations. These exams test a candidate’s ability to perform a variety of dental procedures, including restorations, extractions, and crowns.
How often must licensed dentists in Georgia renew their licensure?
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Licensed dentists in Georgia must renew their licensure every two years. The renewal process involves completing a renewal application and paying the required fee.
