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It’s not easy to become a dentist or work in the dental field. You may see “DDS” or “DDM” next to your dentist’s name. These acronyms both mean that they have graduated from an accredited dental school. “DDS” (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and “DDM” (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine) are actually the same degrees, they just have different names depending on what the university decided to call it. Each degree is awarded after the following requirements are achieved:
- 3 or more years of undergraduate education
- 4 years of dental school
- Must pass national exam
- Must pass state exam
And that’s just to become a general dentist! If the doctor decides to specialize, become an orthodontist, periodontist or oral surgeon, additional training is required.
Doctors aren’t the only ones who need years of schooling to work in the office. Most dental hygiene programs take at least 2 years to complete and completion allows the hygienist to take the licensure exams. Dental assistant programs are a bit shorter and take anywhere from 9-11 months to complete.
Michigan Requirements
Every dentist, hygienist and dental assistant is required to meet certain criteria and requirements in order to be licensed in the state of Michigan. Here are some of those requirements for each:
Dentists
- Official transcripts must be sent to Michigan’s Bureau of Professional Licensing
- National Board scores must be sent directly to Michigan’s Bureau of Professional Licensing
- Pass the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) simulated clinical written examination
- Pass all parts of a clinical examination offered by Northeast Regional Board of Dental Examiners (NERB), a regional testing agency approved by the Board, or a state-offered clinical examination that is equivalent to the NERB
Hygienists
- Official transcripts must be sent to Michigan’s Bureau of Professional Licensing
- National Board scores must be sent directly to Michigan’s Bureau of Professional Licensing
- Pass the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) simulated clinical written examination
- Pass all parts of a clinical examination offered by Northeast Regional Board of Dental Examiners (NERB), a regional testing agency approved by the Board, or a state-offered clinical examination that is equivalent to the NERB
Assistants
- Official transcripts must be sent to Michigan’s Bureau of Professional Licensing
- Pass the Michigan RDA clinical and written examination
Conclusion
With few exceptions, almost everyone you meet in your dental office has had years of schooling and has had to pass multiple exams, both state and national. These highly trained professionals are qualified to prevent or alleviate any dental problems you may have. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Balog and staff.