What happens if a dentist fails to complete the continuing education requirements?

In North Carolina, failing to complete the required continuing education (CE) can have significant implications for a dentist's practice. Specifically, if a dentist does not fulfill the CE requirements, their license cannot be renewed until those requirements are satisfied. This means that the dentist would be unable to legally practice dentistry in the state until they complete the mandatory hours of continuing education. Continuing education is designed to ensure that practicing dentists stay current with the latest advances in dental science and technology. Consequently, the emphasis is on compliance for license renewal rather than immediate revocation or a simple warning, reinforcing the importance of maintaining up-to-date knowledge in the field. Extensions may be granted under certain circumstances, but typically, completion of the requirements is essential for renewal.