Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Mississippi

This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in Mississippi. The Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners oversees the licensing process for dentists in the state.

1. Standard Pathway (for new graduates)

Requirements:

• Graduate from a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
• Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Parts I and II, or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE)
• Pass a clinical examination accepted by the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners
• Complete a jurisprudence examination on Mississippi dental laws and rules
• Hold current CPR certification

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners
2. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
3. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Submit clinical examination scores
5. Complete and pass the Mississippi jurisprudence examination
6. Submit a copy of your CPR certification
7. Pay the required application fee
8. Provide a recent photograph
9. Submit to a criminal background check

2. Licensure by Credentials (for experienced dentists from other states)

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Have graduated from a CODA-accredited dental program
• Have passed the NBDE or INBDE
• Have passed a clinical examination
• Have actively practiced dentistry for at least five years immediately preceding the application
• Have completed 40 hours of continuing education in the past two years

Additional Steps:

1. Submit verification of licensure from all states where you’ve held a dental license
2. Provide proof of active practice (e.g., employer letters, tax documents)
3. Submit certificates of completion for continuing education
4. Provide a letter of recommendation from a licensed dentist

3. Institutional License

Purpose:

For dentists employed by state institutions, such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Requirements:

• Be employed full-time by a state institution
• Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental school
• Pass the NBDE or INBDE

Steps:

1. Submit an application for an institutional license
2. Provide proof of employment at a state institution
3. Submit dental school transcripts and NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Complete a criminal background check

4. Faculty License

Requirements:

• Be employed as a faculty member at the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry
• Hold a dental degree from a recognized institution
• Have completed a dental specialty education program accredited by CODA (for specialty faculty positions)

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a faculty license
2. Provide proof of employment at the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry
3. Submit dental degree credentials and specialty program completion (if applicable)
4. Complete a criminal background check

5. Temporary License

Purpose:

For dentists licensed in other states to practice temporarily in Mississippi for a specific purpose (e.g., to receive or demonstrate new techniques or procedures).

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Have a specific, board-approved reason for temporary practice in Mississippi

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a temporary license
2. Provide verification of current licensure in another state
3. Submit a detailed explanation of the purpose for temporary practice
4. Pay the required fee

General Notes:

• All applicants must be at least 21 years old and of good moral character
• Licenses must be renewed annually by December 31
• Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal (40 hours per 2-year cycle)
• The Board may require additional information or an interview from any applicant
• All licensees must maintain professional liability insurance
• Dentists must register their place of practice with the Board

For the most current information and specific details, always refer to the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners website or contact them directly.