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Dental Students Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I find an area to practice that needs dentists?

The ADA Survey Center demographic reports have information at the state- and county-level including dentists segmented by age, gender, type of practice and specialty. The reports also include information on the general population's age, race, household income, education, and occupation. To order, contact the ADA Survey Center at 1-800-621-8099 x2568. You can also contact the ADA Survey Center via e-mail.

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How can I find a practice for sale?

The ADA Classifieds section of ADA.org highlights various resources to help you locate a practice for sale. In addition, your local or state dental society may also have a listing.

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How can I find an associateship position?

The ADA Classifieds section of ADA.org highlights various resources to help you locate available associateship positions. In addition, your local or state dental society may also have a listing.

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What is a fair associateship contract?

Information on your contractual considerations as a soon-to-be associate are highlighted in the ADA Practice Management Series publication Associates: A Guide for Owners and Prospective Associates. This publication can be ordered by calling ADA Salable Materials at 800-947-4746. The ADA InfoPak on Associateships also offers a general overview of associateships.

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Is going into private practice the right choice for me? How can I assess my options?

The ADA InfoPak on Careers in Dentistry provides an overview of the various options dentists can consider other than a traditional practice setting. When exploring your career decision, consider working with a mentor. Learn more about how to find a mentor at http://www.ada.org/public/careers/beadentist/mentoring.asp. For a more detailed presentation of options, our SUCCESS Dental Programs provide a nice overview of career choices, especially the Smart Start for Freshmen. Contact your school's Office of Student Affairs about scheduling a program.

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Where can I get information on my Dental Admissions Test, National Board Dental Exam and other testing information?

Two score reports are included in the NBDE examination fee: one for the dean of the accredited dental school (you are attending or have attended) and one for you. You will receive your score report in the mail at the address indicated on your application 3–4 weeks after you've completed the exam. For additional information or score reports complete this form  or contact:

Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations
211 East Chicago Avenue, Suite 600
Chicago, IL 60611
800-232-1694

Licensure Guidebook

The ADA gives you the resources you need to prepare for your dental exams. Don’t start the exam process without first reading Dental Boards and Licensure Information for the New Graduate.

Exam Resources

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What can I do to prepare for the clinical licensure exam?

Dental Boards and Licensure Information for the New Graduate highlights different aspects of the licensure process including exam requirements, costs and locations for the exams, as well as a checklist to assist you in preparing for the exam. For a copy of the publication, contact us at 1-800-621-8099 x7470 or em-mail us at studentaffairs@ada.org. In addition, the American Student Dental Association has resources to help you prepare for the exam including samples of past exams. Contact ASDA for more information at 1-800-621-8099 x2795 or 312-440-2795 or visit their Web site at ASDAnet.org.

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What should I do if I fail the licensing examination?

Dental Boards and Licensure Information for the New Graduate includes information for those students who fail the examination, including information about the appeals process, available remediation programs, testimonials from dentists who have failed, and interim options for the dentists waiting to retake the exam. The publication also outlines additional support resources and clinical testing contact information.

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How can I manage my student loan repayment?

Financial Planning Issues for Dental Students is a publication which provides background information on important financial issues regarding loans and debt. The publication includes a worksheet to help compute personal finances.

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How do I decide if a particular managed care contract is right for me?

The ADA provides a wide array of resources to help dentists make informed choices in regards to marketplace change and managed care including the Contract Analysis Services. Most of these resources are available throughout the ADA site to members, so you may need to log in to access them.

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Where can I get advice on clinical and practice matters?

There is a wealth of resources available online through the ADA Library, JADA, ADA News, and the Practice section.

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When does my ASDA/ADA membership expire?

ASDA/ADA membership expires December 31 of the current calendar year.

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What are my ADA membership options after I graduate? Do I qualify for the ADA reduced dues program?

You have many options to stay involved with the ADA after graduation, including continuing your ADA membership for $0 dues first year in most cases. Many state societies and local components also have the provisional dues in place. For more information, take a look at the following resources:

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How can I obtain an ADA membership application?

Your membership depends upon your status after graduation. Visit the Membership area to learn about the various categories. Know what you want? Access the applications directly.

Contact Information
ADA Office of Student Affairs
studentaffairs@ada.org
1-800-621-8099 x7470

American Student Dental Association
asda@asdanet.org
1-800-621-8099 x2795

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