Dentists Want a Dental License That’s National

Dentists can be chained to their state by their dental license. In this survey, 86% said they want universal licensure for dentists, while only 14% think things should stay as they are.

“If we manage to graduate from an accredited school, what is the big deal besides regional politics?” asked one dentist.

(Check out this week's article on getting a dental license)

We got a huge number of responses to the question of national reciprocity. Dentists have a lot to say on the subject!

• “Not all state boards are equal. Some states are too easy.” (Mississippi dentist)
• “Dental school accreditation is national. If a dentist graduates from an accredited school, it makes sense that he should be eligible to practice nationally. On the other hand, this is a further erosion of states' rights, and that is also cause for concern.” (California dentist)”Greater freedom never fails to produce better results.” (California dentist)
• “Make credentialed dentists as free to move around in the States as anyone else. That's what America is all about!” (Retired dentist)
• "It's a huge expense and paperwork nightmare to try to get credentials in other states.” (Texas dentist)
• “It won't happen in my lifetime.” (General dentist)
• “Reciprocity by licensure is logical. Multiple board exams is not – certainly not with the mobility we have today.” (New York dentist)
• “I believe the United States should have one national board exam and thereby granting a license to practice anywhere in the US. It just makes sense.” (Nevada dentist)
• “This is my number one gripe against the ADA. I WILL NEVER BELONG TO THE ADA WITHOUT NATIONAL RECIPROCITY.” (Indiana dentist)
• “National licensing is way past due.” (New York dental anesthesiologist)
• “A dentist should have a least 5 years practice in good standing prior to being able move from their home state. Just makes sense.” (Kentucky dentist)
• “Teeth are teeth, so state restriction is just a violation of free trade. MONOPOLY!!!” (Pennsylvania dentist)
• “The physicians have had this for years. We as dentists are way behind on this one.” (California dentist)
• “Restriction of the ability to practice anywhere is just selfish and wrong.” (Pennsylvania dentist)

Read more: Dentists Ready for National Licensure