Summary: A new survey commissioned by the American Association of Dental Boards reveals strong public support for maintaining hand skills examinations in dental licensing, with 82% of Americans agreeing that these tests are essential for ensuring patient safety.

Key Takeaways:

  • The majority of Americans oppose efforts to eliminate hand skills testing, emphasizing the need for dentists to demonstrate practical competency before being licensed.
  • Public sentiment strongly favors maintaining rigorous state-specific dental licensing standards to protect patient care and uphold trust in the profession.

    A new survey commissioned by the American Association of Dental Boards (AADB) reports strong public opposition to eliminating the hand skills test required for dental professionals in most states. The poll underscores broad support for maintaining licensing standards, as pending legislation in some states seeks to remove the requirement.

    Public Backs Hand Skills Testing

    Hand skills examinations require dentists and dental hygienists to demonstrate their ability to perform surgical procedures safely and effectively in a clinical setting, in addition to passing a written test. This assessment ensures that dental professionals possess both the clinical knowledge and the practical abilities necessary to provide high-quality care.

    A nationwide survey of 1,863 registered U.S. voters, conducted between December 30, 2024, and January 9, 2025, found that 82% of Americans believe hand skills testing is essential to evaluating a dentist’s ability to perform procedures safely. The survey, which has a margin of error of ±2.28 percentage points, indicates overwhelming support for maintaining this licensing requirement.

    “Most people appear to want dentists to demonstrate their practical skills,” said Peter Mitchell, chief insight officer of marketing for Change Co, which has conducted polling on various oral health topics. “Two-thirds of those we polled opposed efforts to exempt dentists from hand skills testing.”

    Americans Favor High Licensing Standards

    The survey results demonstrate strong public support for maintaining dental licensing requirements:

    • 65% oppose allowing dentists licensed under weaker standards in other states to practice in their state.
    • 83% agree that dental professionals should meet state-specific continuing education requirements.
    • 69% believe current licensing standards should not be reduced.

    Patient Safety at Stake

    “This survey confirms patients want to know that their dentists and dental hygienists can actually perform procedures competently and safely,” said Arthur Chen-Shu Jee, DMD, president of the AADB board of directors. “The hand skills test provides that assurance. Removing this safeguard allows untested dentists to practice, risking patient care. As we consider changes to licensing, we must remember these vital exams directly impact patient safety and public trust in our profession.”

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