How many hours of clinical care must a dentist have provided to qualify for licensure by credentials?

To qualify for licensure by credentials in North Carolina, a dentist must demonstrate a substantial level of clinical experience. The correct answer indicates that a dentist needs to have completed a minimum of 1,000 hours of clinical care per year over a span of five years. This requirement reflects the state's emphasis on ensuring that licensed dentists possess sufficient hands-on experience, which is vital for maintaining high standards of care and competency in dental practices.

This criterion is designed to ensure that dentists are not only familiar with the theoretical aspects of dentistry but that they also have ample practical experience in treating patients and managing the complexities that arise in clinical settings. By setting this level of engagement in clinical practice, the licensing board can better ensure that practitioners are well-prepared to provide quality dental care upon obtaining their licensure.

In contrast, other answer choices suggest varying hour requirements that do not align with the state’s established guidelines for licensure by credentials in North Carolina. For instance, fewer hours over a shorter period might not adequately demonstrate the depth of practical experience needed for a dentist to competently serve patients in the dental field.