Dentist in California

How to Become a Licensed Dentist in California

California is a desirable location for many people, and it’s an excellent place to get started with your career in dentistry. Often, dentists from out of the state, and even outside of the country come to the sunshine state for the diverse clientele, temperate weather, and upbeat lifestyle. Many dental students within California are also looking into the steps to be fully licensed in the state. 

Whether you are interested in family dental, orthodontics, or cosmetic dentistry, there are a few steps you need to take before you can become a practicing, licensed dentist in California

Graduate with a Dental Degree 

Primarily, rveryone practicing dentistry in the State of California must have an approved degree in dentistry. The California Dental Association states that all dentists must “Graduate from a dental school that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or complete a two-year international dental program at a board-approved dental school. Your dental program must be approved by the CODA and abide by these guidelines in order to qualify. Most dental students are aware that they need a dental degree to practice. However, be sure to double-check and ensure your degree qualifies. 

Take the WREB Exam

For most doctors, the WREB Exam is a required part of becoming a certified dentist in California; and several other states. The exam can be taken across the country and it covers the core topics you’ve learned in dental school. The WREB Exam tests your knowledge on treatment planning, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics and operative dentistry. It is an opportunity to apply everything you have learned in a hands-on and written exam. 

Although the WREB Exam procedures are outlined in-depth on the WREB website, it can be difficult to determine exactly what your examiners want to see. In addition, you must provide all dental instruments needed. Many dental students find that a preparatory course gives them the best overview and the unrivalled benefit of hands-on experience, practice, and feedback from instructors. 

WREB Success

WREB Success was founded in Los Angeles, CA by two sisters, Azy and Arezoo Nasiry. These two practicing dentists own and operate LA Dental Clinic. Before they began their practice, they became licensed dentists in California. They experienced a lack of resources and information while they were preparing for the WREB exam. As a result, they founded the WREB Success program.

WREB Success is a 2-day course that gives those looking to get licensed the support, demonstrations, and hands-on experience they need to feel confident on exam day. 

Azy and Arezoo Nasiry give individual feedback and guidance to help make your test prep as stress-free and informative as possible. Passing the WREB Exam is one of the final steps to become a dentist in California. Contact us to learn more about passing your boards. 

Pass the Law and Ethics Exam

In addition to the WREB Exam, you will be required to pass the California Law and Ethics Exam. This exam ensures that you understand the legal duty you have as a dentist in California. Therefore, in order to provide safe, informative, and beneficial treatment for your patients. 

You will also learn about the legal repercussions involved if any law is breached by yourself or your practice. As a dental practitioner and health provider in the medical field; your understanding of the legal and ethical implications of your work is imperative to your practice. 

Additional Links and Resources

There are several additional resources available for those practitioners looking to become certified dentists in California. 

  • The American Dental Association – The ADA consists of over 160,000 members across America. The organization seeks to empower dentists and improve advancements within the dental field. The ADA has existed in America for over 160 years. 
  • The Official WREB Website – The official website of the Western Regional Exam Board. It provides students with vital information about the WREB exam. Test dates, study tips and up-to-date information gets posted on this site frequently. 
  • Dental Board of California – The Dental Board of California manages dental licensing for dentists and dental assistants. In addition, the board seeks to maintain a high standard to protect patients in the state of California. 

Visit WREB Success for More Information 

At WREB Success, we know that the process of becoming a dentist in California can be difficult. There are years of education and several examinations required for dental certification in this state. We know the steps involved in this process and have first-hand experience with becoming certified from out of state. 

Thus, our team seeks to help dentists in California get certified and pass the WREB Exam. As a result, WREB Success is designed to give you the competitive edge you need to feel confident on exam day. Lastly, Contact us if you have any questions about our program.