Doctors who treat health problems related to teeth gums and other parts of the mouth are called Dentists. These professionals help people live better lives by treating a variety of issues related to mouth, face and gums.

Should I Become a Dentist in New Hampshire?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a 7% employment growth is expected for this career between 2018 and 2028. The BLS predicted that there will be a rise in demand for dental services because of the aging population. Moreover, in 2019 BLS reported that 450 general dentists were working in New Hampshire. For further details on this career, go through this detailed guide.

Education Required A doctoral or a professional degree
Major Requirement Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
License/Certification State issued license must be obtained
Experience/Training Residency program must be completed (Except for General Dentists)
Key Skills Patience, Determination and Detail-oriented, Organizational Skills, Communication and Leadership skills etc.
Annual Mean Salary(National, 2019) $178,260 (Dentists, General)
Annual Mean Salary,(New Hampshire, 2019) $215,600 (Dentists, General)
Job Outlook (2018-2028) 7% (Faster than the average)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)

Career Requirements

A career in dentistry demands patience, determination and attention to detail in addition to being very good at communication. A dentist must evaluate patients’ condition before giving a diagnosis or beginning a treatment. Dentists specializing in a particular area may work as Prosthodontists, Orthodontists and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons etc. Whereas, those who do not specialize, work as General Dentists.

Steps to Become a Dentist in New Hampshire

Before diving into this career, take a look at this guide and figure out if it is the right fit for you!

    1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree


The first step towards dentistry begins with a 4-year bachelor’s degree. You are advised to take courses in biology, chemistry or a related biological science subject prior to getting into dental school.

    1. Clear the Dental Admissions Test (DAT)


All interested candidates who want to enroll in a DDS/DMD degree must take and clear the DAT with a good score because.

    1. Obtain a DDS or a DMD Degree


A 4 year long Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree is offered by several institutions in New Hampshire. One of such institutes is the University of New Hampshire.

    1. CODA/ADA-Accredited Residency Program


All dentists (except for General ones) who want to specialize must complete a CODA/ADA accredited residency program. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery program takes 4-6 years whereas, all others can be completed in 2-4 years.

    1. New Hampshire State Licensure


The New Hampshire Board of Dental Board Examiners regulates the licensing for dentists. The Board issues the following types of licenses:

  • New License: Through acceptance of examination for first time licenses
  • By Endorsement: For existing licenses

How Long Does It Take to Become a Dentist in New Hampshire?

Overall, becoming a dentist in New Hampshire may take you anywhere between 10 to 12 years and depending upon your specialization, it may take even longer. However, all steps mentioned above must be completed to work as a licensed dentist in New Hampshire.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Dentist in New Hampshire?

To get a license from the New Hampshire Board of Dental Board Examiners, all dentists must:

  • Have graduated from a DDS/DMD degree approved by the ADA/CODA

Requirements for specific types of licensure include;

  • By Examination- Dentists who want to apply for a license for the first time must have passed the ADEX or other relevant clinical exams within the last 3 years
  • By Credential- This method is for dentists who, 3 years prior to applying for a license in New Hampshire,
  • Have a practice in another state, or
  • Have been enrolled in a residency, or
  • Have been in active military dental service

 

How Much Can I Make after Becoming a Dentist in New Hampshire?

In accordance with the data reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019, all General Dentists employed in New Hampshire earned an annual mean salary of $215,600. This figure is significantly higher than the annual mean income for US which is $178,260.