License Applications and Background Checks Time Frame:

The Louisiana State Board of Dentistry requires background checks for anyone seeking a dental or dental hygiene license. The Louisiana State Police processes these fingerprint cards and background checks, and they have informed us that the current processing time is BETWEEN TWELVE AND SIXTEEN WEEKS FROM THE DATE THE STATE POLICE RECEIVE THE REQUEST. Since this is not taking place in our office and is therefore out of our control, please do NOT contact our office to request a "rush" as it is impossible. The best suggestion we can offer you is to submit your required fingerprint cards and forms (which you obtain from this office) along with the appropriate fee to us as soon as you have decided to apply for licensure. You should send this even if the supporting documentation for your license application is incomplete. However, you must send your application for licensure as soon as possible as well, since a background check does not constitute an application for licensure.