According to the Kentucky Board of Dentistry Report of 2023, there are approximately 6,000 dentists and dental hygienists holding active licenses in Kentucky. Of these, 2,546 dentists are actively practicing within the state, predominantly in urban counties.
In Kentucky, there’s a Dentistry Board that checks if dentists are doing their work properly. They set rules that all dentists must follow. Whether you’re looking to become a dentist or you’re already practicing, understanding these rules is key.
This guide explains how to get a dentist’s license, keep it updated, and ensure it stays valid. Additionally, we introduce Heartbeat AI, a smart tool that makes accessing and renewing your license much easier, providing you with the right resources. Discover how this process can be simplified.
What’s on this page:
Kentucky Board of Dentistry: At A Glance
The Kentucky Board of Dentistry regulates dental professionals to protect public health, overseeing licensure, practice standards, and compliance. It’s self-funded and consists of 14 members, including dentists, hygienists, and public representatives.
Contact Information
- Phone Number: +1 502-429-7280
- Address: 312 Whittington Pkwy # 101, Louisville, KY 40222, United States
- Website: Kentucky Board of Dentistry
What is the Kentucky Board of Dentistry Responsible for?
The Kentucky Board of Dentistry is responsible for:
- Licensing and Certification: Issues licenses to dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, ensuring they meet the necessary professional standards.
- Regulation and Enforcement: Sets and enforces standards for dental practice, investigates complaints, and disciplines those who violate regulations.
- Public Protection: Works to safeguard the public by ensuring that dental professionals are qualified and practice ethically.
- Professional Guidance: Provides regulatory guidance and information to dental professionals to help them comply with current laws and standards.
Kentucky Board of Dentistry License Lookup
To look up a dentist’s license in Kentucky, you can use the License Search System provided by the Kentucky Board of Dentistry. This tool allows users to verify the current status of any dentistry license within the state.
Also, you can use Heartbeat, which makes it easier to check if dentists in Kentucky have the right licenses. This platform lets users quickly find up-to-date information on healthcare workers.
Are You Eligible for a Kentucky Board of Dentistry License?
To be eligible for a dentistry license from the Kentucky Board of Dentistry, applicants must graduate from an ADA-accredited dental school. They must pass both parts of the National Board Dental Examination or the INBDE, and complete a recognized clinical examination.
Additionally, they are required to pass the Kentucky Jurisprudence Exam and maintain a valid CPR certification. A criminal background check is necessary, along with the submission of a detailed application, fees, and required documents to the Kentucky Board.
Kentucky Board of Dentistry License Requirements
To practice general dentistry in Kentucky, an applicant must:
- Education: Graduation from an accredited program (dental school for dentists, dental hygiene program for hygienists). Dental assistants must complete a Board-approved radiography course for radiographic procedures and additional education for expanded functions.
- Examinations: Dentists and hygienists must pass national board exams (NBDE Parts I and II; hygienists: NBDHE) and a clinical examination. Dental assistants aiming for expanded functions must pass a competency exam.
- Jurisprudence Exam: Both dentists and hygienists are required to pass the Kentucky Jurisprudence Examination relevant to their field.
- CPR Certification: Current CPR certification is required for all roles.
How to Get Kentucky Board of Dentistry Licenses?
Here’s a simplified guide for obtaining licenses from the Kentucky Board of Dentistry. It includes information for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.
Step 1: Complete Educational Requirements
In Kentucky, dentists must graduate from an accredited dental school. This ensures they have the essential knowledge and skills for their profession.
For dental hygienists, securing an associate degree or more from an accredited curriculum is compulsory. This education prepares them for the clinical and theoretical aspects of their role.
Dental assistants can choose from several paths, including on-the-job training. Completing a dental assistant program can improve their skills and job opportunities, with some positions needing extra certifications.
Step 2: Pass Required Examinations
Each dental profession requires specific exams: Dentists must clear the NBDE Parts I and II, and a clinical test. Dental Hygienists need to pass the NBDHE and a clinical exam. For Dental Assistants aiming for certification, the DANB or similar exams are essential.
Step 3: Submit the Kentucky Board of Dentistry License Application
In the next step, you will have to submit your application to the Kentucky Board of Dentistry, along with your transcripts and exam scores. This is to ensure you meet all required criteria. Dental assistants face varying requirements depending on their roles and certifications.
Step 4: Complete a Jurisprudence Exam
In the following step, you will need to prepare for the jurisprudence exam. This involves studying Kentucky’s dental laws and ethics, with materials available on the Board’s website. The exam is essential for assessing your understanding of the legal and ethical standards crucial for practicing dentistry in Kentucky.
Step 5: Fulfill Background Check Requirements
A background check is required to ensure patient safety. You will need to provide fingerprints for a comprehensive background investigation.
Step 6: Receive Your License
After your application is approved, you will be issued your dental license, allowing you to practice in Kentucky. Remember to renew your license periodically.
Kentucky Board of Dentistry Licensure Time Frame
The licensure process with the Kentucky Board of Dentistry varies in duration. It can range from a few weeks to several months. This timeline depends on how quickly you complete application requirements, such as passing exams.
Additionally, state-specific mandates need to be fulfilled. For detailed steps and to avoid delays, ensure your application is complete and check the Board’s website.
Cost of Kentucky Board of Dentistry License?
The initial general licensure fee set by the Kentucky Board of Dentistry is $325 when applied for during the first year of the biennial license period. If applied for in the second year, the fee is $175.
To renew a general dental license, the fee is $295. Reinstating an expired license costs $325 if the license was properly retired. The fee for initial specialty licensure is $100, with a renewal cost of $50 for a specialty license.
The initial fee for a dental hygiene license is $125 if applied for in the first year of the biennial period. Kentucky doesn’t license dental assistants but requires them to maintain CPR certification and register with the Board.
Kentucky Board of Dentistry License Renewal
Here’s a more concise guide to the Kentucky Board of Dentistry License Renewal process.
Step 1: Check Your Renewal Date
Identify when your license expires by checking your documents or the notification from the Kentucky Board of Dentistry. It’s important to start the renewal process early.
Step 2: Complete Continuing Education
Ensure you have completed the required continuing education credits. Keep your completion certificates handy in case you need to provide evidence.
Step 3: Access the Online Renewal System
Visit the Kentucky Board of Dentistry’s website. Log into the license renewal section using your license number and other required details.
Step 4: Update Your Information
Review and update your contact, practice, and professional details online. Providing accurate information is vital for your license renewal.
Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fee
The renewal process includes a fee, which you can pay online. Be prepared with your credit card or bank details for the transaction.
Step 6: Submit Your Renewal Application
After checking your details and making the payment, you can proceed. Then, submit your renewal application online.
Step 7: Receive Your New License
Wait for the Kentucky Board of Dentistry to process your application. Once approved, you will receive your new license, either by mail or digitally.
Kentucky Board of Dentistry License Verification
Verifying a dental license with the Kentucky Board of Dentistry is a process you can complete online to ensure a dentist is licensed to practice in the state of Kentucky. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Visit the Kentucky Board of Dentistry Website
Start by going to the official website of the Kentucky Board of Dentistry. This website provides various resources, including license verification.
Step 2: Find the License Verification Section
Once you’re on the website, look for a section titled “License Verification” or something similar. This section is typically found in the main menu or under a heading like “Public Resources” or “Consumer Information.”
Step 3: Enter the Required Information
In the license verification section, you will need to enter some details to search for a dentist’s license. Typically, you can search by the dentist’s name, license number, or other provided criteria. Make sure you enter the information accurately to get the correct results.
Step 4: Submit Your Search
After entering the required information, submit your search. This can usually be done by clicking a button labeled “Search,” “Submit,” or something similar.
Step 5: Review the Results
The search will return a list of dentists that match your search criteria. Click on the name of the dentist you are verifying to see more details about their license status.
How Often Do Dentistry Licenses Need to be Renewed in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, licenses for general, specialty, and limited dentistry, along with sedation permits, expire on December 31 of each odd-numbered year. Dental hygienists renew their licenses in even-numbered years. The next renewal period for dental hygiene licenses will start in October 2024 and will last until the end of the year.
Licenses must be renewed at least every two years. If a license is not renewed, the holder faces reinstatement penalties and potential disciplinary action for practicing without a valid license.
How Does Heartbeat AI Simplify the Process of Getting & Renewing a Dentist License in Kentucky?
Heartbeat AI simplifies the process of obtaining, renewing, and verifying licenses for Dentistry by providing information about healthcare professionals. You can get clear answers to any questions about licensing by reaching out to them.
Here are some key features of Heartbeat AI.
Big Database
Heartbeat AI has a huge database of over 11 million healthcare workers. It finds this info from 200 places and is really good at guessing their phone numbers and emails correctly. This big list helps a lot in finding the right contact details.
Simple Search Tool
With the Prospector tool of Heartbeat AI, looking for healthcare experts is a breeze. You can search by where they are, what they specialize in, and how long they’ve been working. The tool is made easy so anyone can use it without trouble.
Fast Info with a Chrome Add-on
Heartbeat AI has a special add-on for the Chrome web browser. This lets you see important info quickly while you’re looking at medical websites. So, you can get what you need without having to go to another website.
Check and Update Contact Lists
You can upload a contact list to Heartbeat AI using the file upload feature, and it will identify and correct any errors or incomplete information. This ensures the list remains accurate and helpful.
Prices for Everyone
Heartbeat AI has different prices, so more healthcare groups can afford it, no matter how much money they have. This means more people can use this helpful tool.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Board of Dentistry ensures proper training for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. They also enforce regulations to provide safe and high-quality dental care. They need to keep their certifications updated.
Plus, Heartbeat AI makes it easier to obtain a license and check if Dentistry in Kentucky has valid licenses,
Frequently Asked Question
Are there any special licensure provisions for military spouses in Kentucky?
Yes, military spouses may be eligible for expedited licensure. Contact the Board for specific details.
Can I practice in Kentucky with a license from another state?
No, you must obtain a Kentucky license, but reciprocity guidelines may simplify the process for those licensed in other states.
What actions can lead to disciplinary measures by the Kentucky Board of Dentistry?
Actions such as unprofessional conduct, negligence, fraud, or violation of state laws and Board regulations can lead to disciplinary measures.
