Can Foreign Dentists Work as Dental Hygienists in Colorado?

For internationally trained dentists looking to establish themselves in Colorado’s dental field, understanding the available pathways is crucial. Many foreign-trained dentists consider working as dental hygienists while pursuing full dental licensure or as an alternative career path. Here’s what you need to know about this option in Colorado.

The Direct Answer

No, foreign-trained dentists cannot automatically work as dental hygienists in Colorado without completing an accredited dental hygiene program in the United States. A foreign dental degree does not provide direct qualification for dental hygiene licensure in Colorado.

Colorado’s Dental Hygienist Requirements

The Colorado Dental Board regulates both dentists and dental hygienists in the state. To become a licensed dental hygienist in Colorado, you must:

1. Graduate from a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
2. Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
3. Pass a clinical examination accepted by the Colorado Dental Board
4. Pass the Colorado jurisprudence examination
5. Hold current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Colorado is also known for allowing dental hygienists more independence than many other states, with the ability to practice unsupervised in certain settings under specific circumstances.

Pathways for Foreign-Trained Dentists in Colorado

If you’re a foreign-trained dentist interested in working in Colorado’s dental field, here are your primary options:

1. Complete a Dental Hygiene Program

You can enroll in one of Colorado’s CODA-accredited dental hygiene programs. These programs typically take 2-3 years to complete and result in an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene. Some programs might offer limited credit for previous dental education, but this varies by institution.

2. Pursue Full Dental Licensure

Many foreign-trained dentists find it more beneficial to pursue full dental licensure in Colorado. This typically requires:

• Obtaining ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) certification
• Graduating from an international dental school program listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools
• Completing an advanced standing program at a CODA-accredited U.S. dental school (typically 2-3 years)
• Passing the National Board Dental Examinations
• Passing a clinical examination accepted by the Colorado Dental Board
• Passing the Colorado jurisprudence examination

3. Work as a Dental Assistant

While pursuing other qualifications, foreign-trained dentists can work as dental assistants in Colorado. This requires less formal education but still allows you to work in the dental field while you determine your long-term career path.

Factors to Consider

When deciding on your career path in Colorado’s dental field, consider:

• Educational investment: Weigh the time and cost of dental hygiene education against advanced standing programs for international dentists
• Scope of practice: Consider whether the more limited scope of dental hygiene practice will be satisfying after practicing as a dentist
• Long-term goals: Determine if dental hygiene aligns with your career objectives or if full dental licensure would better serve your goals
• Geographic flexibility: Colorado dental hygienists have more practice independence than in many other states

Conclusion

While a foreign dental degree doesn’t provide a direct path to working as a dental hygienist in Colorado, several options exist for international dentists looking to practice in the state’s dental field. The most appropriate path depends on your long-term career goals, financial resources, and time constraints.

For the most current and detailed information, it’s advisable to contact the Colorado Dental Board directly or consult with an educational counselor specializing in dental professions.