Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Missouri

This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in Missouri. The Missouri Dental Board 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 Missouri Dental Board
• Complete a jurisprudence examination on Missouri dental laws and rules
• Hold current CPR certification

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Missouri Dental Board
2. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
3. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Submit clinical examination scores
5. Complete and pass the Missouri 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 fingerprint 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 50 hours of continuing education in the past five 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 letters of recommendation from three licensed dentists

3. Faculty Permit

Purpose:

For dentists employed as faculty members at a Missouri dental school.

Requirements:

• Be employed as a faculty member at a CODA-accredited dental school in Missouri
• 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 permit
2. Provide proof of employment at a Missouri dental school
3. Submit dental degree credentials and specialty program completion (if applicable)
4. Complete a fingerprint background check

4. Limited Teaching License

Purpose:

For dentists licensed in other countries to teach dentistry in Missouri.

Requirements:

• Be employed as a teacher of dentistry by an accredited dental school in Missouri
• Hold a dental degree from a recognized foreign institution
• Have at least five years of teaching experience

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a limited teaching license
2. Provide proof of employment at a Missouri dental school
3. Submit foreign dental degree credentials and proof of teaching experience
4. Complete a fingerprint background check

5. Temporary License

Purpose:

For dentists licensed in other states to practice temporarily in Missouri for a specific purpose (e.g., to provide charitable care or demonstrate new techniques).

Requirements:

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

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 biennially
• Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal (50 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
• Missouri is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, which may facilitate licensure for dentists licensed in other member states

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