Lincoln, Neb. — Governor Jim Pillen is calling on the Nebraska Board of Dentistry to change its licensing standards in a way that would help attract and recruit more qualified dentists to the state. He has issued a letter to each member of the Board, explaining the need to expand testing options.
To qualify for licensure in Nebraska, dentists must take the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS) exam. In addition to being more costly than a more common, comparable exam, it is also only available in a few states and is not universally accepted. The Board has rejected approval of that test — the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) exam – for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 testing cycles.
“Professional dental care is essential to the health care of Nebraskans, but the number of practicing dentists in our state has decreased significantly,” said Gov. Pillen. “Reducing barriers to licensure, a policy supported by the American Dental Association, will help attract and recruit more qualified dentists wishing to provide this care.”
The Board’s next scheduled meeting is July 12, during which time the Governor requests the Board vote on expanding testing options.
