Are you trying to get licensed with the Tennessee Board of Dentistry but unsure where to begin? You’ve come to the right place. In Tennessee, where over 4,000 dentists maintain active licenses, proper credentialing is crucial for ensuring high-quality dental care.
The Tennessee Board of Dentistry oversees the licensing process and enforces standards to guarantee safe and competent dental practices across the state. This includes everything from applying for your initial license to fulfilling ongoing education requirements and renewing your credentials.
Here, we’ll guide you through each step to obtain and maintain your license, helping you navigate the requirements and procedures efficiently.
Let’s get started with what you need to know to successfully manage your licensing with the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.
What’s on this page:
Tennessee Board of Dentistry: At A Glance
The Tennessee Board of Dentistry is integral in supervising the dental sector across Tennessee. It makes sure that the dental services provided to the public meet the highest standards of health, safety, and professional ethics.
Their key responsibilities include the licensing of dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, alongside accrediting dental education and ongoing training programs.
Contact Information
- Address: Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Health Related Boards, 665 Mainstream Drive, Nashville, TN 37243
- Phone: (615) 532-3202
- Website: Tennessee Board of Dentistry
What is the Tennessee Board of Dentistry Responsible for?
The Tennessee Board of Dentistry plays a vital role in maintaining the quality, safety, and integrity of dental services across the state. Here are its key responsibilities:
- Licensing: The board is responsible for issuing licenses to dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. It ensures that all licensed professionals meet rigorous educational and professional standards before they can practice.
- Education Approval: The board evaluates and approves dental and dental hygiene educational programs. This process ensures that these programs offer comprehensive training and adhere to established state and national standards.
- Regulation: The board sets forth and enforces rules for practicing dentistry within Tennessee. These regulations are designed to maintain high standards of patient care and ensure that all dental professionals uphold ethical and professional conduct.
- Disciplinary Actions: The board also investigates complaints against dental professionals. If necessary, it can take disciplinary actions, including suspending or revoking licenses, as measures to protect public health and safety.
- Continuing Education: Furthermore, the board oversees the continuing education requirements for dental professionals. It ensures that they are continually updated on the latest technological advancements and clinical practices in dentistry to provide the best care possible.
Tennessee Board of Dentistry Lookup
To verify a dentist’s license with the Tennessee Board of Dentistry, you should visit the official website of the Tennessee Department of Health. There, locate the section for the Health Related Boards and select the Board of Dentistry. This section includes a feature called “License Verification,” where you can enter the dentist’s name or license number to conduct your search.
This process will reveal essential details about the dentist’s licensing status, such as whether the license is active, its expiration date, and any disciplinary actions that have been recorded. Ensuring that a dentist’s license is valid and active is important for confirming they meet the professional standards required to practice.
Additionally, for a more simplified approach to verifying dental licenses in Tennessee, Heartbeat AI provides an alternative method.
Are You Eligible for a Tennessee Dentistry License?
To qualify for a Tennessee Dentistry License, you need to graduate from a dental program accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Additionally, you must pass either the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Parts I and II or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE). A criminal background check is also required to assess your suitability for the profession.
Tennessee Board of Dentistry License Requirements
To be eligible for a dentistry license in Tennessee, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Complete dental education at a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
- Dental hygienists must graduate from an accredited program and pass the NBDHE.
- Dental assistants need appropriate certifications or training, such as the CDA from the DANB, based on their roles.
- Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Parts I and II, or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE).
- Successfully pass a regional or state clinical examination approved by the Board, such as the Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA) exam.
- Submit a complete application with the necessary fees to the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.
- Undergo a mandatory criminal background check.
- Pass the Tennessee dental jurisprudence exam, which focuses on state-specific dental laws and regulations.
- For dentists trained outside the U.S., additional documentation of equivalent training and proof of English proficiency may be required.
- Additional certifications may be necessary depending on the dental specialty or scope of practice.
How to Get a Tennessee Board of Dentistry License
Obtaining a dentistry license in Tennessee involves a series of structured steps. Here’s how you can navigate the process:
Step 1: Educational Requirements
Begin by completing your dental education at a dental school that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This ensures that the education you receive meets the high standards required for a dental professional in the United States.
Step 2: Pass Required Exams
You will need to pass several examinations to qualify for licensure:
- Dentists: Complete both parts of the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE). Additionally, you must pass a regional or state clinical examination, such as the one offered by the Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA).
- Dental Hygienists and Assistants: Depending on your role, specific examinations or certifications are required to demonstrate your competency in dental procedures and practices.
Step 3: Submit the Tennessee Board of Dentistry License Application
Complete the official licensure application, attaching all necessary documentation such as proof of education and results from your exams. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays in the processing of your application.
Step 4: Background Check
Undergo a criminal background check, a standard procedure to assess your suitability for a professional license. This step is crucial to ensure that all licensed practitioners maintain the integrity and trust required in the dental profession.
Step 5: Application Fee
Submit the required application fee with your application materials. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and is non-refundable.
Step 6: CPR Certification
If applicable, provide proof of current CPR certification. This certification is important as it demonstrates your preparedness to handle medical emergencies that might occur during dental treatments.
Step 7: Jurisprudence Examination
Take and pass the Tennessee dental jurisprudence examination, which covers specific laws and regulations related to dental practice in Tennessee. This test ensures that all practicing dentists are knowledgeable about state-specific legal and ethical guidelines.
Step 8: Await License Issuance
After submitting your complete application and meeting all the prerequisites, your application will be reviewed by the Tennessee Board of Dentistry. Once everything is verified and approved, your license will be issued, officially authorizing you to practice dentistry in Tennessee.
Tennessee Dentistry Board Licensure Time Frame
The licensure process for the Tennessee Dentistry Board can vary in duration. Once you have submitted a complete application, including all required documentation and fees, the review process commences.
Typically, this process can take from several weeks to a few months. The exact time frame depends on factors such as the completeness of your application, the necessity for additional information, or the timing of the Board’s meetings.
Cost of Tennessee Dentistry Board License
The Tennessee Board of Dentistry establishes a variety of fees associated with obtaining and maintaining dental licenses within the state, as outlined in the Tennessee Dental Practice Act.
The fees required for various licensing actions include a licensure application fee for dentists at $300.00, with additional fees for specialty certifications and reciprocity licensing also required. For example, the fee for a limited or educational limited license application is $112.50, and the same amount is charged for reciprocity licensure applications. Dental hygienists face an initial licensure application fee of $86.25, while dental assistants are charged $22.50 for their registration application.
Biennial renewal fees also vary, with dentists paying $187.50, dental hygienists $75.00, and dental assistants $37.50. Reinstatement fees can be considerably higher, such as $562.50 for dentists who fail to renew on time.
Tennessee Board of Dentistry License Renewal
Renewing your dentistry license in Tennessee involves a systematic process to ensure uninterrupted practice. Here are the steps for a smooth license renewal:
Step 1: Acknowledge Your Renewal Period
In Tennessee, dentistry licenses must be renewed biennially. It’s important to know the exact expiration date of your license to avoid any disruptions in your practice.
Step 2: Complete Continuing Education Requirements
Continuing education (CE) is a mandatory requirement for license renewal. You’ll need to complete a specific number of CE hours every two years. You can find the detailed requirements and accredited programs on the Tennessee Board of Dentistry’s website.
Step 3: Anticipate the Renewal Fee
Prepare to pay the renewal fee, which is currently set at $187.50 for dentists. It’s wise to check the latest fee structure directly on the Board’s website or by contacting them, as fees can change.
Step 4: Fill Out the Renewal Application
Access and complete the renewal application online through the Tennessee Board of Dentistry’s official portal. Make sure all your professional information is current and accurately entered.
Step 5: Submit Your Application Timely
To avoid late fees and potential delays, submit your completed application and the associated fee before your license expires.
Step 6: Await Confirmation
Once your application is submitted, you can track the status of your renewal online. The Board will notify you once your renewal has been processed, confirming your licensure for another two years.
Step 7: Keep Up with Regulations
Dental practice regulations and continuing education requirements may change. Regularly visit the Tennessee Board of Dentistry’s website to stay informed about any updates and ensure compliance with new guidelines.
Tennessee Board of Dentistry License Verification
Verifying a dental license in Tennessee is an important step for confirming the credentials and professional status of a dentist or dental assistant. Here’s how you can perform a license verification:
Step 1: Access the Verification System
Visit the official website of the Tennessee Department of Health. Navigate to the Health Professional Boards section and select the Board of Dentistry from the list of health boards.
Step 2: Use the License Verification Tool
Once on the Board of Dentistry’s page, look for the option labeled “License Verification” or “Verify a License.” This link will redirect you to the online verification system.
Step 3: Enter the Required Information
In the license verification tool, you will need to enter specific information about the dental professional whose license you wish to verify. This may include the practitioner’s name, license number, or other identifying details. The system is designed to provide results based on the information you provide, so having accurate details is key.
Step 4: Review the Verification Details
After submitting your search, the system will display information related to the dental professional’s license status. This typically includes the license type, status (active, expired, suspended, etc.), the expiration date, and any disciplinary actions or restrictions.
How Often Do Dentistry Licenses Need to be Renewed in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, dentistry licenses need to be renewed every two years. This biennial renewal cycle is crucial for ensuring that dental professionals continue to meet the state’s regulatory requirements and maintain their qualifications to provide dental care.
How Does Heartbeat AI Simplify the Process of Getting & Renewing a Dentistry License in Tennessee?
Heartbeat AI simplifies the process for dentists in Tennessee to obtain and renew their dental licenses. Although we do not provide direct support, our platform allows users to access contact details for dental professionals within the state. You can then contact these professionals directly for any licensing assistance required.
Here are some of the key features that Heartbeat AI offers:
Access to a Vast Database
Heartbeat AI hosts a large database that includes over 11 million healthcare professionals, which helps users efficiently find relevant contact information for licensing queries.
High Data Accuracy
The platform employs advanced data analysis techniques to ensure the contact details provided are highly accurate. This improves the reliability of communications between users.
Networking Made Simple
With the Heartbeat AI Chrome Extension, users can enhance their networking capabilities, making it easier to connect with a broad network of professionals. This is especially useful for exploring career opportunities or seeking advice within the professional community.
Targeted Searches
Heartbeat AI’s Prospector Tool allows users to conduct searches based on specific criteria, such as location or specialty. This targeted search capability makes it more straightforward to find the right contacts efficiently.
Information Verification
The platform includes a File Upload feature that helps verify and correct contact lists, ensuring the information used is accurate. This helps build trust and facilitates more effective communication.
Conclusion
To summarize, we have discussed the role of the Tennessee Board of Dentistry in overseeing dental practices within the state. Dentists in Tennessee must follow the board’s rules to keep their licenses valid and ensure they provide safe, high-quality care to their patients.
For an efficient way to connect with licensed dental professionals in Tennessee and access information about licensing procedures, Heartbeat AI serves as a valuable tool. This platform simplifies networking within the healthcare community and assists with managing licensing requirements efficiently.
FAQs
Can dental hygienists work independently in Tennessee?
No, dental hygienists in Tennessee cannot work independently. They must work under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
What should I do if my dental license is about to expire?
If your dental license is about to expire, you should submit a renewal application before the expiration date to avoid any interruption in your ability to legally practice. This includes paying any renewal fees and submitting proof of completed continuing education credits.
Can I use my Tennessee dental license to practice in another state?
No, a Tennessee dental license is not automatically valid in other states. Each state has its own licensing requirements, and you will need to obtain a license from the specific state where you wish to practice.
