Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Massachusetts

There are several pathways to obtain a dental license in Massachusetts. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering the main routes:

1. Standard Pathway (for new graduates)

Requirements:

• Graduate from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) accredited dental school
• Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Parts I and II, or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE)
• Pass the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA) exam (both written and clinical components)
• Complete a course in infection control
• Hold current CPR/BLS certification

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry
2. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
3. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Submit CDCA exam scores
5. Provide proof of infection control course completion
6. Submit a copy of your CPR/BLS certification
7. Pay the required application fee
8. Pass a jurisprudence exam on Massachusetts dental laws and regulations

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

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Have practiced dentistry for at least 5 years preceding the application
• Be in good standing with no pending disciplinary actions
• Meet all other standard requirements (NBDE/INBDE, infection control, CPR/BLS)

Additional Steps:

1. Provide verification of licensure from all states where you’ve held a dental license
2. Submit proof of active practice (e.g., employer letters, tax documents)
3. Complete a background check

3. Foreign-Trained Dentist Pathway

Requirements:

• Graduate from a foreign dental school
• Complete a minimum 2-year program at a CODA-accredited U.S. dental school, resulting in a DDS or DMD degree
• Meet all standard requirements (NBDE/INBDE, CDCA exam, infection control, CPR/BLS)

Additional Steps:

1. Provide a credential evaluation of your foreign dental degree
2. Submit transcripts and completion certificate from the U.S. dental program

4. Faculty License

Requirements:

• Be employed as a faculty member at a CODA-accredited dental school in Massachusetts
• Hold a dental degree from a recognized institution
• Have a minimum of two years of experience in teaching or practicing dentistry

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a faculty license
2. Provide proof of employment at a Massachusetts dental school
3. Submit dental degree credentials and proof of experience

General Notes:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character
• Licenses must be renewed biennially
• Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal
• The Board may require an interview or additional information from any applicant

For the most up-to-date information and specific details, always refer to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry website or contact them directly.