Should the U.S. Adopt a National Dental Clinical Licensure Examination? Two Viewpoints

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-1-2019

Publication Title

Journal of Dental Education

Volume

83

Issue

2

First page number:

151

Last page number:

160

Abstract

This Point/Counterpoint article examines the need for and potential impact of implementing a national clinical examination for initial licensure in dentistry. Viewpoint 1 supports a national licensure exam that meets the clinical exam’s credentialing requirement for licensure in every state. According to this viewpoint, a national exam will reduce costs, enhance portability of graduates, simplify the transition from dental school to practice or specialty training programs, and standardize requirements for licensure between states. Viewpoint 2 opposes a national licensure exam. This viewpoint supports individual states’ dental board decision making process, which is based on identifiable state-specific criteria. The ability to prioritize needs at the state level allows for higher exam standards, easier modifications, more focused requirements, and better calibration in specific exam areas. Viewpoint 2 argues that the delicate balance between licensure agencies and organized dentistry in each state, as well as the involvement of dental schools in the licensure process, must be preserved. This Point/Counterpoint concludes with a joint statement about the prospects for adoption of a national licensure exam.

Keywords

Dental education; Licensure and certification; Clinical exam; Assessment; Dental licensure; Licensure examination; National examination; State dental board

Disciplines

Dental Public Health and Education

Language

English

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