Foreign-trained dentists licensed in the United States : Exploring their origins

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe authors explored the origins of foreign-trained dentists seeking licensure in the United States.MethodsThe authors analyzed data received from the American Dental Association Department of Testing Services for candidates who took the National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE) Part II from 2002 through 2005. They also established proxies for the information they sought in lieu of existing direct data.ResultsA total of 4,136 candidates took NBDE Part II from 2002 through 2005. The greatest number of foreign-trained dentists originated from India, the Philippines and Colombia.ConclusionThe greatest number of potential U.S. dental licensees are primarily from Asia, the Middle East and South America. However, precise studies need to be conducted to generate more exact data about foreign-trained dentists who practice in the United States.Clinical ImplicationsThe source of international dental graduates seeking licensure in the United States has implications for the licensure process and for the potential accreditation of foreign dental schools.