Continuing Education in Tennessee: What Dentists, Hygienists, & Dental Assistants Need to Know

Jun 24 / Dent ED Online
Let’s be honest, keeping up with continuing education (CE) requirements isn’t exactly the most exciting part of working in dentistry. Between busy schedules, clinical demands, and all the acronyms (ACLS, CEU, PALS… ), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But staying compliant doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful.

Whether you're a dentist, dental hygienist, or registered dental assistant practicing in Tennessee, we’ve broken down everything you need to know. No jargon, no fluff, just the facts.

First Things First: CE Cycles and Key Deadlines

CE in Tennessee follows a biennial renewal cycle, which means:
  • Cycle runs: January 1 of an odd-numbered year through December 31 of the next even-numbered year.
  • Example: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2024
  • All CE must be completed by the end of the cycle.


Important tip: Keep all your CE and CPR documentation for at least three years from the end of the calendar year that the course was completed, just in case you’re selected for a random audit. (Yes, it happens!)

Dentists: 40 Hours Every Two Years

Here’s what you need:
  • 40 hours of CE in each two-year cycle
  • 2 hours minimum must focus on prescribing controlled substances and Tennessee's Chronic Pain Guidelines
  • CPR Required: Must be hands-on (in-person skills demonstration) and current at all times

If you hold a sedation/anesthesia permit:
  • Add 4 hours specific to sedation/anesthesia
  • Maintain ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certification, or PALS if treating kids.

Dental Hygienists: 30 Hours Every Two Years

You’re required to complete:
  • 30 hours of CE every two years
  • 2 hours must cover chemical dependency education
  • CPR Required: Must be hands-on (in-person skills demonstration) and current at all times
  • Online course limits: No more than 50% of your CE can be from online/web-based formats (but live interactive webinars count as “in-person”!)

So, if you're doing 30 hours, up to 15 hours can be traditional web-based modules, while live webinars and in-person CE can make up the rest.

Registered Dental Assistants: 24 Hours Every Two Years

Your requirements are slightly lighter but still important:
  • 24 hours of CE every two years
  • 2 hours must cover chemical dependency
  • CPR Required: Must be hands-on (in-person skills demonstration) and current at all times
  • Good news: There’s no limit to how many CE hours can come from online/web-based courses

That means you’ve got more flexibility, especially if you prefer to knock out CE from the comfort of your couch (no judgment!).

What Counts as Acceptable CE?

Tennessee accepts CE from many reputable sources, including:
  • ADA, AGD, ADHA, and the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
  • Specialty dental organizations and state associations
  • Accredited dental hygiene and assisting schools
  • Live webinars and in-person events (be sure they’re board-approved!)
  • FEMA and TEMA courses 
  • Attending a state, regional, or national dental meeting
  • Presenting a CE course yourself (can earn you hours)
  • Writing a dental article or textbook 
  • Plus, CPR, ACLS, and PALS all count (as long as they meet board criteria)

Record Keeping & Audits: Don't Get Caught Off Guard

  • Save all certificates and CE proof for three years from the end of the calendar year that the course was completed.
  • Tennessee performs random audits. If you’re selected, you’ll be notified to submit your CE records.
  • If you fall short during an audit, you’ll have 90 days to make it up.

Penalties for missing CE requirements can get pricey:
License Type 1st Offense 2nd Offence
Dentist $600 $1,200
Hygienist $300 $600
Assitant $150 $300

Special Situations & Waivers

  • Dealing with a medical issue? You can apply for a CE waiver with documentation from your healthcare provider.
  • Retired from practice but still licensed? You still need to complete CE unless your license is formally placed in "retired" status.

Stay On Track with CE Broker

Tennessee uses CE Broker, a free, easy-to-use tool where you can log your CE hours and track progress.
Pro tip: Set up an account early in your cycle to avoid last-minute headaches.

Quick Recap by Role

Role CE Hours Mandatory Topics CPR? Online Limit?
Dentists 40 hrs 2 hrs controlled substances; 4 hours sedation (if permitted) Yes No cap, but must meet criteria
Hygienists 30 hrs 2 hrs chemical dependency Yes 50% of hours
Assistants 24 hrs 2 hrs chemical dependency Yes No limit

Final Word

CE might not be your favorite part of the job, but it’s essential to staying sharp, keeping your license in good standing, and delivering the best care to your patients.

Have questions or need help finding courses that meet your requirements? Dent ED Online offers board-approved courses designed to make learning convenient, engaging, and (dare we say it?) fun.

References

Tennessee Board of Dentistry. (n.d.). Board of Dentistry Continuing Edcation. Tennessee Department of Health. Retrieved June 24, 2025, from https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/dentistry-board/dentistry-board/continuing-education.html