Dental CE Requirements for Kentucky Dental Professionals

Dentists in Kentucky are required to meet specific continuing education (CE) requirements for license renewal. This guide provides detailed information about these requirements, ensuring Kentucky dentists remain compliant and up to date in their field.

Detailed CE Requirements for Kentucky Dentists

• Total Hours: 30 hours every two years.
• Specific Requirements:
  • Clinical Skills and Knowledge:
    • A minimum of 20 hours must be dedicated to enhancing clinical skills and knowledge.
    • These hours aim to improve your capabilities and effectiveness as a dental practitioner.
  • Flexible Options for the Remaining Hours:
    • Up to 10 hours can be allocated to a variety of activities, including:
      • Business operations and practice management classes.
      • Volunteer clinical work at charitable events.
      • Participation in dental association and society meetings.
  • Live Interactive Format Requirement:
    • At least 10 out of the 30 total hours required must be completed through live, interactive formats.
    • This ensures engagement and real-time learning experiences.

Methods for Obtaining CE Credits

• A variety of methods are available, including individual study and specialized courses.

Compliance and Provider Approval

• Credits must be from Kentucky state board approved providers.
• Credits should be relevant to the practice of dentistry.
• Dentists must keep records of their CE completions for three years.

Additional Information

Recent Graduates:

• Dentists: If licensed in an odd-numbered renewal year, no additional CE required before renewal.
• Dental Hygienists: If licensed in an even-numbered renewal year, no additional CE required before renewal.
• Non-Renewal Year Licenses: Only 15 hours of CE required before renewal.

Prescribing Dentists:

Must complete 3 hours of CE related to KASPER, pain management, or addiction disorders, which count towards the 30 required hours. Free resources are available online.

KASPER Overview:

Kentucky's prescription monitoring program aimed at aiding patient care and serving as a tool for law enforcement. Required for dentists prescribing controlled substances.

Sedation/Anesthesia Permit Holders:

• Renewal: Due by Dec. 31 of every odd-numbered year.
• Requirements: At least 4 hours of CE related to sedation or anesthesia in a classroom setting, plus ACLS (adults) or PALS (pediatrics) certification.

Sedation Permit Changes (as of July 2020):

• Minimal Pediatric Sedation: Permit discontinued. No action required if held; it expired on Dec. 31, 2021.
• Moderate Sedation Permits: Merged into a single category from Moderate Pediatric, Enteral, and Parenteral Sedation permits. Holders have until Dec. 31, 2023, to complete comprehensive training if not already done.
• Deep Sedation and General Anesthesia: No changes in renewal process. Specify if permit is for adult and/or pediatric patients.

Tips for Successful CE Completion

• Choose individual study materials that are relevant to your practice.
• Ensure compliance with the specialized CE requirements if they apply to your license.
• Keep diligent records of all CE activities for compliance verification.

For any queries or additional information, dentists in Kentucky can refer to the Kentucky dental board website. By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, Kentucky dentists can fulfill their CE requirements effectively, maintaining the high standards of dental practice.