How to Become a Dentist in South Dakota: Your Complete Guide

For those aspiring to practice dentistry in South Dakota, it’s important to note that while the state offers excellent opportunities for dental practitioners, it currently has no dental schools within its borders. However, this shouldn’t deter you from pursuing your dream of becoming a dentist in the Mount Rushmore State. Here’s your comprehensive guide to achieving this goal.

Dental Schools

South Dakota does not have any dental schools in the state. Most South Dakota residents pursuing dentistry typically attend dental schools in neighboring states or other regional institutions such as:

• University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
• Creighton University School of Dentistry (Nebraska)
• University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry
• University of Iowa College of Dentistry

Educational Path

1. Undergraduate Education

Before dental school, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree with required prerequisites:

Common Prerequisites:

• General Biology with lab (8-12 credits)
• General Chemistry with lab (8-12 credits)
• Organic Chemistry with lab (8 credits)
• Physics with lab (8 credits)
• Biochemistry (3-4 credits)
• English Composition (6 credits)
• Mathematics/Statistics (6 credits)

Recommended Majors:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Pre-dental Sciences
• Health Sciences

2. Dental Admission Test (DAT)

• Required for dental school admission
• Tests biological and physical sciences
• Perceptual ability testing
• Reading comprehension
• Quantitative reasoning
• Recommended to take by junior year of college

Licensing Requirements in South Dakota

1. Education Requirements

• Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental school
• Complete all required clinical examinations

2. Examinations

Must pass:

• National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE) Parts I and II
• Clinical examination accepted by South Dakota Board of Dentistry:
• ADEX (American Board of Dental Examiners)
• CDCA (Commission on Dental Competency Assessments)
• CRDTS (Central Regional Dental Testing Service)

3. State Licensing Process

To obtain a South Dakota dental license:

• Submit completed application to the South Dakota State Board of Dentistry
• Provide official transcripts
• Submit examination scores
• Pass background check
• Provide proof of liability insurance
• Pay applicable fees
• Complete jurisprudence examination

Practice Opportunities in South Dakota

Rural Dental Care Programs

South Dakota offers several incentives for dentists who choose to practice in rural areas:

1. Rural Healthcare Facility Recruitment Assistance Program

• Financial assistance for dentists
• Commitment to practice in eligible rural communities
• Three-year service commitment required

1. Delta Dental of South Dakota’s Loan Repayment for Service Program

• Assistance with educational debt
• Practice in designated shortage areas
• Multi-year commitment options

Practice Settings

1. Private Practice Options:

• Solo practitioner
• Group practice partner
• Associate dentist
• Practice purchase opportunities

1. Public Health Settings:

• Indian Health Service facilities
• Community health centers
• Mobile dental clinics

Continuing Education Requirements

• 100 hours of continuing education every five years
• Must include:
• CPR certification
• Infection control
• South Dakota dental law review
• Clinical practice updates

Financial Considerations

Education Costs

Average dental school costs (annual):

• Tuition: $50,000 – $70,000
• Books and supplies: $7,000 – $10,000
• Living expenses: $15,000 – $25,000

Financial Aid Options

1. Federal Programs:

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans
• Grad PLUS Loans
• Health Professions Student Loans

1. State Programs:

• Rural recruitment incentives
• Loan repayment programs
• Service-commitment scholarships

1. Private Options:

• Bank loans
• Private scholarships
• Family assistance

Tips for Success

1. Preparation Strategy

• Maintain high undergraduate GPA (3.5 or higher recommended)
• Gain practical experience through:
• Dental office shadowing
• Volunteer work
• Research opportunities
• Pre-dental clubs

2. Application Strength

• Strong letters of recommendation
• Diverse extracurricular activities
• Leadership experience
• Community service

3. Professional Development

• Join the South Dakota Dental Association
• Network with practicing dentists
• Attend dental conferences
• Participate in mentorship programs

Practice Management

Setting Up a Practice

1. Business Requirements:

• Obtain necessary licenses
• Register business entity
• Secure insurance coverage
• Implement management systems

1. Facility Requirements:

• Meet OSHA standards
• Comply with ADA guidelines
• Install appropriate equipment
• Maintain sterilization protocols

Marketing and Patient Base

• Develop online presence
• Join local business organizations
• Participate in community events
• Build referral networks

Working in South Dakota

Advantages

• Lower cost of living compared to many states
• Strong demand for dental services
• Rural practice incentives
• Professional growth opportunities
• Strong professional community

Considerations

• Rural vs. urban practice decisions
• Winter weather challenges
• Travel distances between communities
• Continuing education accessibility

Conclusion

While becoming a dentist in South Dakota requires attending dental school out of state, the professional opportunities and quality of life make it an attractive destination for dental practice. The state’s commitment to rural healthcare access, combined with various incentive programs, creates a supportive environment for new dentists.

Success in South Dakota dentistry requires careful planning, strong educational preparation, and a commitment to serving communities across the state. Whether you choose to practice in a larger city like Sioux Falls or serve a rural community, South Dakota offers rewarding opportunities for dental professionals.

Remember to stay connected with the South Dakota Dental Association and take advantage of mentorship opportunities throughout your journey. With dedication and proper planning, you can build a successful dental career in South Dakota while making a significant impact on the oral health of its communities.