Dentist Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in Georgia

Our recruiters and staffing specialists do not expect you, the provider, to know ins-and-outs of every state in the country. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled information from TripAdvisor, state government pages, and tourist information sources to give you a glimpse into life in Georgia.

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Georgia, the Peach State, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the earliest Native American tribes and European explorers. Established in 1732 as the last of the original 13 colonies, Georgia was initially proposed as a haven for London’s indebted prisoners and to protect South Carolina from Spanish enemies in Florida. 

Notably, Georgia has been home to influential figures such as Martin Luther King Jr, Jimmy Carter, and Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind. Georgia has emerged as a thriving hub for business, culture, and innovation. Atlanta, home to the world’s busiest airport and a burgeoning film industry, has become a symbol of the New South, blending tradition with progress  Georgia’s rich history, diverse natural landscapes, and vibrant culture make it an enticing destination for both visitors and potential residents.

• Visit Radium Springs, natural hot springs that flow at an astounding rate of 70,000 gallons per minute and discover the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, including the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Okefenokee Swamp, the largest swamp in North America. 
• Experience Atlanta’s lively entertainment and nightlife scene, with numerous theaters, live music venues, and comedy clubs. The city is also a hub for sports enthusiasts, boasting professional sports teams and state-of-the-art stadiums and arenas.
• Discover Georgia’s rich history by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which includes the civil rights leader’s childhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached.
• Indulge in the state’s agricultural offerings, from apple orchards and pumpkin patches to wineries in North Georgia. Georgia is renowned for its peaches, pecans, and Vidalia onions, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts

• Atlanta, Georgia to Charlotte, North Carolina: Approximately 250 miles; around 4 to 4.5 hours by car.
• Atlanta, Georgia to Nashville, Tennessee: Roughly 215 miles; about 3.5 to 4 hours by car.
• Atlanta, Georgia to Jacksonville, Florida: Around 300 miles; approximately 4.5 to 5 hours by car.
• Atlanta, Georgia to Birmingham, Alabama: About 150 miles; approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
• Atlanta, Georgia to Savannah, Georgia: Approximately 250 miles; around 4 to 4.5 hours by car.

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in Georgia?

In Georgia, dentists have the legal authority to perform various dental procedures without supervision, known as full practice authority. They can conduct cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, and administer medications. The Georgia Board of Dentistry regulates the practice of dentistry in the state, setting education and training standards and licensing qualified dentists. Full practice authority ensures patients’ access to high-quality dental care, enhances care quality, reduces costs, and improves patient satisfaction. It is beneficial for patients and dentists in Georgia. Georgia requires dentists to obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from a university-based program and be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This ensures high-quality dental education and the health and safety of Georgia’s residents.

What are the Licensing Requirements for Dentists in Georgia?

To obtain a dental license in Georgia, individuals must possess a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (D.M.D.) degree from a CODA-accredited dental education program. The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) ensures that dental schools meet specific standards and provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to practice dentistry competently. The D.D.S. and D.M.D. degrees involve rigorous academic study and clinical training, typically spanning four years of undergraduate education and four years of dental school. Graduates must pass national and state licensing exams to obtain a dental license. The state’s requirement for a CODA-accredited degree aims to protect public health and safety by ensuring a high-quality dental education and promoting consistency in dental education standards. 

What are Dentists Authorized to Prescribe in Georgia?

In Georgia, dentists have unrestricted prescriptive authority, allowing them to prescribe a wide range of medications and controlled substances to manage oral health conditions and provide comprehensive patient care. They can prescribe medications to treat pain, infection, inflammation, and manage anxiety during dental procedures. This unrestricted prescriptive authority enables dentists to provide timely and effective treatment for various oral health conditions, although they must exercise it responsibly, considering individual needs and health history.

Do Dentists Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in Georgia?

In the state of Georgia, it is a mandatory requirement for medical staff to conduct a thorough review of all new applicants seeking credentialing. This process is crucial in ensuring that the medical staff comprises highly qualified and competent individuals capable of providing top-notch healthcare services.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists in Georgia?

In Georgia, dentists must complete 40 continuing education (CE) hours every two years to maintain their licenses. This requirement aims to ensure that dentists stay up-to-date on advancements in dentistry and provide the best possible care. The CE requirement applies to all licensed dentists in the state. These hours can be obtained through various sources like conferences, seminars, webinars, or online courses. Some common CE course topics include new dental technologies and treatments, advances in dental materials, infection control, patient safety, dental ethics, and practice management. By fulfilling this requirement, dentists can stay informed and provide high-quality care to their patients.