Idaho, also popularly known as ‘The Gem State,’ offers some great employment opportunities to individuals working in the field of dentistry. According to the occupational data reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, general dentists working in Idaho earned an annual mean wage of $204,060 in 2019, which was higher than the national average of $178,260.
If you’re thinking of pursuing a career in this field, then you might find this guide useful. It will explain in detail how to become a dentist in Idaho.

Should I Become a Dentist in Idaho?

Choosing dentistry as a profession would be a good idea if you have good physical stamina and decent interpersonal skills. Take a look at the table below to learn about the education and training requirements for dentists. The following data has been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Education Required Doctoral/professional degree.
Training Required for specializations only
Licenses/Certifications A license is needed.
Key Skills/Qualities Detail Oriented, Communication Skills, Patience, Problem Solving Skills and Dexterity.
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $178,260 (Dentists, General)
Job Outlook (2018-28) 7%
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Idaho $215,060 (Dentists, General)

Career Outlook

It is predicted that employment opportunities for dentists will increase by 7% from 2018 to 2028, which will create 11,600 more jobs. The demand for dental services will increase due to the aging baby boomer generation, who will need more dental work.

Steps to Become a Dentist in Idaho

The process of becoming a dentist in Idaho incorporates the following steps:

    1. Enroll in a Bachelor’s Program

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, aspiring dentists need at least a bachelor’s degree to get into a dental school. Moreover, they are required to complete certain science courses, such as chemistry or biology. While no specific undergraduate major is required, dental schools may prefer candidates who have majored in a science subject, such as biology. Thus, it is recommended that you enroll in a science related undergraduate program.

    1. Ace the Dental Admission Test (DAT)

Dental schools base their admission decisions on many factors including CGPAs, interviews and most importantly, Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores. DAT is an aptitude exam that will assess your scientific knowledge and your academic capacity, so make sure you go well-prepared for this test!

    1. Enroll in a Dental School

After passing the Dental Admission Test, you will be able to gain admission into a four-year long Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) program. These programs will introduce you to a range of courses such as Oral Biology, Pain Control, Periodontics, Radiology and Pathogens and Host Defense.

    1. Apply for a License

In order to get the state license, you will have to send a licensure application to the Idaho Board of Dentistry. You can become eligible for the license only if you have obtained the required credentials and have passed the licensing exam. When you apply for the license, you will be expected to attach a copy of your dental school degree, reference letters, verification of passage of board exam and a National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) self-query form, along with the application fee payment.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Dentist in Idaho?

In order to become a dentist in Idaho, you will have to complete a four-year long baccalaureate degree, followed by a four-year long professional dental degree. Thus, all in all it takes around eight years to complete the education requirements, after which you will be eligible to apply for the state license.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Dentist in Idaho?

Individuals will be able to practice dentistry in Idaho if they are able to meet the following conditions:

  • Must have a good moral character and should not have been convicted of any felony.
  • Should have completed a Doctor of Dental Medicine or a Doctor of Dental Surgery program from a dental school that has been approved and accepted by the board.
  • Have cleared the licensing exam.
  • Have sent a licensure application to the Idaho Board of Dentistry.

 

How Much Do Dentists Earn in Idaho?

BLS has reported that Dentists (General) working in Idaho made an annual mean wage of $204,060 in 2019. Thus, you can earn a lucrative salary if you want to practice dentistry in Idaho.