What is required for a person to practice dentistry in this state?

To legally practice dentistry in any state, an individual must possess a valid state license or a certificate of renewal issued by the appropriate state dental board or regulatory authority. This requirement ensures that the dentist has met the educational and professional standards necessary to provide care safely and effectively to patients.

A state license typically signifies that the individual has completed the requisite education, often including a dental school diploma, and has passed any required examinations that assess their competency to practice. Furthermore, a certificate of renewal is crucial for maintaining the privileges to practice. This is typically mandated at regular intervals and requires the dentist to comply with ongoing education requirements and adherence to state regulations.

Possessing only an intern permit or a diploma from a dental school does not fulfill the legal requirements to practice independently. An intern permit allows individuals to gain supervised experience in a clinical setting but does not grant the authority to practice dentistry unsupervised. Therefore, a valid state license is essential for providing dental services legally and ethically.