LicenseCompass

Dentist License in Mississippi

Quick Answer

To become a licensed dentist in Mississippi, complete CODA-accredited dental education and pass the INBDE plus a clinical exam. Mississippi faces significant dental workforce shortages in rural areas.

Exam
INBDE + regional clinical exam
Timeline
4-8 years (dental school) + 3-6 months (licensing)
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Annual

Requirements

Dentist license in Mississippi

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Licensing Agency

MS State Board of Dental Examiners

Dentist Salary in Mississippi

Entry Level

$62,400

Median

$128,570

Experienced

$239,200

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Dentist in Mississippi.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    Specific type of conviction prohibited

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — INBDE + regional clinical exam

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 4-8 years (dental school) + 3-6 months (licensing).

Dentist Licensing in Mississippi: What to Know

Mississippi requires dental education and examination for licensure. The Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners oversees licensing. Mississippi has the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry as its sole dental school. The state ranks among the lowest nationally in dentist-to-population ratio, creating significant access issues particularly in the Mississippi Delta region. Mississippi has implemented various loan forgiveness programs to attract dentists to underserved areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Dentist license in Mississippi?
The process typically takes 4-8 years (dental school) + 3-6 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Dentist license in Mississippi?
You need to pass the INBDE + regional clinical exam. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.