Which of the following is NOT a potential employment setting for a licensed dentist in North Carolina?

A hospital not affiliated with a dental school is indeed not a standard employment setting for a licensed dentist in North Carolina. While hospitals provide various medical services, they typically do not employ dentists unless they have a specialized dental department or oral and maxillofacial surgery services. Most dental procedures and general dentistry practices occur outside of a hospital setting, especially in environments specifically designed for dental care, such as private practices, dental schools, or academic medical centers. In contrast, private practices, academic medical centers, and dental schools are well-established environments where licensed dentists can apply their skills, conduct research, teach, and interact with patients effectively. Therefore, the correct identification of a non-traditional employment setting for dentists in the state is crucial for understanding the landscape of dental practice opportunities.