Linda Pulgar is a Dental Resident licensed in Florida, Registered dental hygienist and International Trained Dentist from Venezuela with more than 25 years of clinical and academic experience. She specializes in comprehensive oral health ,rehabilitation and preventive dentistry, with a proven track record of delivering patient-centered care for individuals with complex medical conditions, including oncology and autoimmune patients.
As the founder of Dentist Study Group, Linda has guided international dental professionals instructing as a private tutoring for the U.S. National Board Examinations. She is also an accomplished speaker and clinical instructor, presenting continuing education courses such as Hygienist UpToday and Medical Emergencies in the Dental Chair.
Linda’s career spans dentistry in Venezuela, orthodontic assisting across Florida, and advanced hygiene practice in the U.S., where she has been recognized with awards including Hygienist of the Year (2024) and Excellence in Patient Care Management (2025).
Trilingual in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, she is passionate about bridging dentistry and medicine, mentoring future professionals, and empowering patients through education, prevention, and holistic oral healthcare.Linda Pulgar is a woman who truly loves helping people, and she expresses that passion through her profession. Since the beginning of her dental career, she has been especially dedicated to serving patients with the greatest needs. From the moment she graduated, she has worked hand in hand with physicians to treat patients with medical conditions that have also affected their oral health.
The Nationals Dental Boards Prep Course is an initiative designed for international dentists who aspire to practice in the United States. With the motto “Building bridges from your home country to U.S. dentistry,” the program offers a comprehensive overview of the professional revalidation process, emphasizing the importance of obtaining a U.S. dental license to work legally and safely.
The journey begins by understanding the differences between being a foreign-trained dentist and a licensed professional in the U.S. The course outlines various career opportunities, including admission to dental schools, dental hygiene programs, assistant roles, scientific research, and continuing education (CE).
There are four main pathways to licensure: the first is the Advanced Standing program (DDS/DMD), aimed at those seeking to revalidate their degree and practice as dentists; the second includes specialty programs such as prosthodontics and orthodontics; the third involves transitional roles like dental hygienist or assistant; and the fourth covers academic, research, or public health routes.
To pursue any of these paths, candidates must pass required exams such as the NBDE/INBDE, TOEFL, and clinical assessments like ADEX and CDCA. The course provides support through the Dentist Study Group, offering private tutoring, bilingual study materials, and mock interviews.
The application process involves credential evaluation (ECE/WES), English certification (TOEFL), submission through ADEA CAAPID, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The course also guides applicants on common mistakes to avoid.
Time and financial planning are essential. Exam fees, application costs, and tuition can be significant, and the estimated timeline to complete the process ranges from two to four years. The program also discusses scholarship opportunities, assistant roles, and part-time work options, highlighting the importance of early budgeting.
Adapting to life in the U.S. is another key focus, with guidance on cultural integration, improving clinical English, building professional networks, and choosing the right city or program.
Additionally, the course presents various U.S. dental licensing options, such as X-ray certification (EFDA), Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), expanded RDH functions, treatment coordinator, office manager, DDS, DMD, and CE courses. Specific information is provided about Florida’s X-ray license, which requires a weekend training and supervised practice.
For those aiming to become dental hygienists, passing the NBDHE and ADEX exams is necessary, along with registration with the Florida Department of Health. The six-month prep course covers subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, radiology, ethics, and community services.
To obtain a dental license, candidates must pass the INBDE, TOEFL, bench test/interview, ADEX clinical exam, and apply to residency programs such as CAAPID/PASS. The process is well-structured and demands commitment and investment.
The course also introduces alternative pathways, such as academic and research careers. International dentists can apply for master’s or Ph.D. programs in fields like oral biology, dental materials, craniofacial sciences, public health, and biomedical sciences. Starting as a research assistant or postdoctoral fellow helps build a professional network, publish research, and strengthen credentials for future DDS or Ph.D. applications.
Another option is the teaching route, applying for adjunct faculty or clinical instructor positions, or enrolling in teaching certification programs. This provides familiarity with the U.S. educational system and valuable academic credentials.
Finally, the public health pathway offers roles in government agencies, NGOs, community clinics, and universities. A Master of Public Health (MPH) with a focus on dental or global health does not require a DDS license to begin and can be combined with revalidation for a well-rounded U.S. dental career.
With the support of the Dentist Study Group and a well-defined structure, the Nationals Dental Boards Prep Course serves as a solid bridge for international dentists seeking to build a successful career in the United States.
