How to Become a Dentist in North Dakota

Pursuing a career in dentistry in North Dakota offers a unique opportunity to serve a state with a significant need for dental professionals, especially in rural areas. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a dentist in North Dakota and discuss the dental education landscape in the state.

Steps to Become a Dentist in North Dakota

1. Complete Your Undergraduate Degree

• Earn a bachelor’s degree, typically in a science-related field.
• Focus on prerequisite courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

1. Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT)

• This standardized test is required for admission to dental schools.
• It covers natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning.

1. Apply to Dental School

• Submit applications to accredited dental schools.
• The application process usually includes transcripts, DAT scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

1. Complete Dental School

• Earn your Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
• This typically takes four years of full-time study.

1. Pass National Board Dental Examinations

• Successfully complete the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE).

1. Complete Clinical Examinations

• Pass a clinical examination accepted by the North Dakota Board of Dental Examiners.
• North Dakota accepts results from CDCA-WREB-CITA (Coalition for Dental Licensure Reform).

1. Apply for North Dakota Dental License

• Submit an application to the North Dakota Board of Dental Examiners.
• Provide all required documentation, including proof of education, examination results, and background check.

1. Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements

• To maintain your license, complete 32 hours of continuing education every two years as specified by the state board.

Dental Schools in North Dakota

As of 2024, North Dakota does not have a traditional dental school within the state. However, there is an important program to note:

University of North Dakota (UND) School of Medicine & Health Sciences – Indians Into Medicine (INMED) Program

• While not a dental school, UND offers the INMED program, which supports American Indian students pursuing health careers, including dentistry.
• The program provides support for pre-dental students and can help facilitate the transition to dental schools in other states.

Given the lack of a dental school in North Dakota, aspiring dentists from the state typically choose to attend dental schools in neighboring states or other regions. Some popular choices for North Dakota residents include:

1. University of Minnesota School of Dentistry (Minneapolis, MN)
2. Creighton University School of Dentistry (Omaha, NE)
3. University of Iowa College of Dentistry & Dental Clinics (Iowa City, IA)
4. University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry (Lincoln, NE)

North Dakota’s Unique Dental Landscape

North Dakota faces challenges in dental care access, particularly in rural areas. To address this, the state has implemented several initiatives:

1. Loan Repayment Programs: North Dakota offers loan repayment programs for dentists who commit to practicing in underserved areas of the state.
2. Dental Workforce Initiatives: The state has programs to encourage dentists to practice in North Dakota, including recruitment efforts and support for new graduates.
3. Teledentistry: North Dakota is exploring teledentistry options to improve access to dental care in remote areas.

Conclusion

While becoming a dentist in North Dakota presents unique challenges due to the lack of an in-state dental school, it remains an achievable and rewarding career path. The state’s need for dental professionals, especially in rural areas, offers opportunities for meaningful service and professional growth.

As you pursue your goal of becoming a dentist in North Dakota, consider the following:

• Research out-of-state dental schools that have a history of accepting North Dakota residents.
• Explore scholarship and loan repayment programs offered by North Dakota for students willing to return and practice in the state.
• Connect with practicing dentists in North Dakota for mentorship and insights into the local dental landscape.
• Stay informed about the latest requirements from the North Dakota Board of Dental Examiners.

With dedication, hard work, and a commitment to serving others, you can build a successful career in dentistry and contribute significantly to improving oral health care access in North Dakota.