Illinois Dental Continuing Education (CE) Credits Requirement (Dentists, Hygienists, Assistants) in 2024

The following are the Continuing Education (CE) Credits requirement for Dental professionals in Illinois, USA in 2024. 

The requirements may be subject to change so make sure to double check on the website of the governing organization in your state.

DENTISTS

Dentists in Illinois must complete a specified number of continuing education credits to maintain their licensure, as mandated by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

• Credit Requirements: Dentists must complete 48 CE credits triennially (every three years).
• Categories: These credits must include:
  • 34 hours in clinical science.
  • 4 hours in ethics, including Illinois state laws and rules pertaining to dentistry.
  • 3 hours in safe opioid prescribing practices, if holding a controlled substance license.
  • Up to 6 hours can be in practice management.
  • The remaining credits can be earned through online courses, webinars, or self-study, provided they are approved by the Board.
• Documentation: Dentists must maintain detailed records of their CE activities and may be required to submit them to the IDFPR during audits.

DENTAL HYGIENISTS

Dental hygienists in Illinois must adhere to specific CE requirements set by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

• Credit Requirements: Dental hygienists must complete 36 CE credits triennially.
• Categories: These credits must include:
  • 24 hours in clinical science.
  • 3 hours in ethics, including Illinois state laws and rules pertaining to dentistry.
  • The remaining credits can be earned through online courses, webinars, or self-study, provided they are approved by the Board.
• Documentation: Hygienists must keep thorough records of their CE activities and may be required to submit evidence of completion during audits.

DENTAL ASSISTANTS

In Illinois, dental assistants (Certified Dental Assistants or CDAs) have their CE requirements regulated by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

• Credit Requirements: Dental assistants are encouraged but not mandated to complete continuing education credits for maintaining their certification.
• Categories: CE credits can be obtained through attending workshops, lectures, and online courses that are directly related to clinical practice and patient care.
• Documentation: Dental assistants should keep thorough records of their CE activities to provide documentation if required by their employers or for personal professional development.