Dentist Guide to Locum Tenens Jobs in North Carolina

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 North Carolina.

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From towering Appalachian peaks to the windswept shores of the Outer Banks, North Carolina is a land of contrasts and captivating beauty. Ride wild horses along pristine beaches, while the smoky scent of authentic barbecue wafts through the air.  Hike to stunning waterfalls cascading through lush mountain forests, or explore historic cities where colonial charm meets modern energy. 

Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, a taste of Southern hospitality, or a glimpse into America’s rich history, North Carolina delivers an adventure as sweet as its famous sweet tea.

• Explore the Mountains: Hike to cascading waterfalls and sweeping vistas in the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, or drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. 
• Hit the Beach: Soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of the Outer Banks, go surfing, or search for wild horses and historic lighthouses. 
• Discover Living History: Explore the grand Biltmore Estate, step back in time in historic cities like Wilmington and Charleston, or delve into aviation history in Kitty Hawk, site of the Wright Brothers’ first flight. 
• Savory Southern Fare:  Indulge in authentic North Carolina barbecue, sample fresh seafood on the coast, or explore the vibrant food scenes of Asheville and Charlotte. 

• South Carolina: North Carolina shares its entire southern border with South Carolina. The distance from central North Carolina to the South Carolina border is about 100 miles. 
• Virginia: North Carolina’s northern border stretches along Virginia. The distance from central North Carolina to the Virginia border is roughly 160 miles. 
• Tennessee: The western portion of North Carolina borders Tennessee. The distance from central North Carolina to the Tennessee border is approximately 220 miles.

What is the Scope of Practice for Dentists in North Carolina?

Dentists in North Carolina have full practice authority, allowing them to perform a wide range of dental procedures, prescribe medications, and order and interpret diagnostic tests. This autonomy enables dentists to provide comprehensive dental care to their patients without the need for referrals to specialists, saving patients time, money, and ensuring optimal care. Dentists in North Carolina are required to complete continuing education courses to stay updated on the latest techniques and procedures, demonstrating their commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care to their patients.

What are the Licensing Requirements for Dentists in North Carolina?

To practice dentistry in North Carolina, aspiring professionals must obtain a D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree from a CODA-accredited university-based dental education program. CODA sets and maintains standards for dental education in the U.S. and Canada. Accredited dental schools meet specific requirements, including having a consistent mission statement, qualified faculty, adequate resources, a comprehensive dental education program, and a system for evaluating program quality. 

What are Dentists Authorized to Prescribe in North Carolina?

Dentists have unlimited and independent prescriptive authority in the state of North Carolina. 

Do Dentists Qualify for Medical Staff Membership in North Carolina?

Dentists in North Carolina are eligible for medical staff membership at hospitals and other healthcare facilities because dentistry is considered a branch of medicine in the state. To qualify, dentists must meet specific requirements, such as having a valid dental license and completing continuing education courses. Medical staff membership provides dentists with access to hospital facilities, the ability to order diagnostic tests and prescribe medications, and the opportunity to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, resulting in improved patient care and professional development opportunities for dentists.

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, dentists are required to complete 15 continuing education (CE) hours every year to maintain their license. This requirement ensures that dentists stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry and are able to provide their patients with the best possible care. The CE hours can be earned through a variety of activities, such as attending conferences, taking online courses, and reading journals. The CE requirement is an important part of ensuring that dentists in North Carolina are providing their patients with the highest quality of care.