Are you a recent dental school graduate, excited to embark on your career but faced with the looming challenge of student loan repayment? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the tailored strategies and solutions designed to make your student loan journey as smooth as a freshly cleaned set of teeth. Say farewell to financial stress and hello to a bright, worry-free future!
Key Takeaways:
- Repayment assistance is crucial for dentists with high student loan debt: Dentists often face significant student loan debt due to the cost of dental school. Therefore, having access to repayment assistance programs is essential in managing their financial obligations.
- Federal loan repayment options provide flexibility for dentists: Dentists can take advantage of federal loan repayment options such as income-driven repayment plans, which base monthly payments on their income. These plans can help dentists with fluctuating income to better manage their loan payments.
- Loan forgiveness programs can provide significant relief for dentists: Dentists may be eligible for loan forgiveness programs, such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which forgives remaining loan balances after 120 qualifying payments. Dentists working in underserved areas or for non-profit organizations may particularly benefit from these programs.
- State-specific loan repayment programs offer additional support for dentists: Some states have specific loan repayment programs designed to attract dentists to underserved communities. These programs offer financial incentives or loan repayment assistance in exchange for practicing in designated areas.
- Exploring and understanding the available options is crucial: Dentists should research and explore the various student loan repayment options and programs available to them. Understanding the eligibility requirements, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each program can help dentists make informed decisions regarding their student loan repayment strategy.
Introduction: Student Loan Repayment Dentists
Student Loan Repayment Dentists refers to dental professionals who have taken out loans to finance their education and are seeking ways to effectively pay off their debt. This article explores strategies and options available to dentists for managing their student loans, with a focus on repayment plans and financial assistance programs specifically tailored for dental professionals. By understanding the unique challenges faced by dentists in repaying their educational loans, this article aims to provide informative insights that can help them make well-informed decisions and alleviate the burden of student debt.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into various repayment options for dentists, such as income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs specifically designed for healthcare providers. We will also discuss the various factors that dentists should consider when choosing a repayment strategy, such as their income level, loan balance, and career goals. Moreover, this article will outline the eligibility criteria and application process for loan forgiveness programs, shedding light on the specific requirements that dentists need to meet in order to qualify for these programs.
Furthermore, this article will highlight lesser-known strategies and resources that can help dentists navigate the complex landscape of student loan repayment. This includes guidance on consolidating loans, refinancing options, and helpful tips for managing student debt while establishing a successful dental practice. By providing dentists with a comprehensive understanding of their repayment options and resources, this article aims to empower them to make informed decisions that will ultimately facilitate their journey toward financial freedom.
The Importance of Repayment Assistance for Dentists
Repayment assistance is crucial for dentists to manage their student loan burdens. With the increasing cost of dental education, many dentists graduate with significant debt. Access to repayment assistance programs can alleviate this burden and support dentists in meeting their financial obligations. Such assistance can provide dentists with options such as loan forgiveness, income-driven repayment plans, or loan repayment subsidies. These programs not only enable dentists to focus on their professional growth but also ensure their financial stability in the long run. Moreover, repayment assistance programs contribute to the overall availability of dental care by encouraging dentists to practice in underserved areas. By providing dentists with the financial support they need, these programs play a vital role in addressing the issue of student loan repayment and promoting dental workforce retention. To further enhance the effectiveness of repayment assistance, dentists can pursue strategies to optimize their loan repayment. For instance, dentists can explore refinancing options to secure a lower interest rate, resulting in reduced repayment amounts over time. Additionally, dentists can consider engaging in public service dentistry, as this may make them eligible for loan forgiveness programs. Dentists can also carefully manage their expenses and prioritize loan repayment to accelerate the debt payoff process. By implementing these strategies, dentists can maximize the benefits of repayment assistance programs and achieve financial freedom sooner. In order to ensure comprehensive support for dentists, repayment assistance programs may need to periodically review their eligibility criteria and benefits. As the dental profession evolves, it is important for these programs to adapt to the changing needs and challenges faced by dentists. Regular assessments can help identify any gaps or limitations in the current programs and allow for necessary adjustments to be made. Flexibility in program design, such as tailoring repayment options to various specialties within dentistry, can further enhance the effectiveness of repayment assistance for dentists. Continuous evaluation and improvement of repayment assistance programs will enable them to better serve the needs of the dental community and ensure a sustainable dental workforce.
Federal Loan Repayment Options for Dentists
Federal Loan Repayment Options for Dentists are available to ease the burden of student loan debt. Here are five key points to consider:
- Income-Driven Repayment Plans: Dentists can opt for income-driven repayment plans, such as the Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE) or Income-Based Repayment (IBR), which adjust monthly payments based on income and family size.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: Dentists may be eligible for loan forgiveness programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment Program, which offer debt relief in exchange for service in underserved areas.
- Refinancing: Dentists have the option to refinance their federal loans into private loans, potentially securing a lower interest rate and reducing monthly payments.
- Loan Repayment Assistance Programs (LRAPs): Some states offer LRAPs specifically designed for dental professionals, providing financial assistance to help repay student loans in exchange for service in designated areas.
- Career-Specific Repayment Plans: Dentists can explore career-specific repayment plans, such as the Dentist Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Loan Repayment Program, which offers loan repayment assistance for those working in eligible dental health professional shortage areas.
Additionally, dentists should be aware of unique details, such as required service commitments, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines, specific to each loan repayment option. These details can significantly impact the feasibility and benefits of different programs.
Loan Forgiveness Programs for Dentists
Loan forgiveness programs for dentists offer valuable opportunities for debt relief. Here are five key points to consider:
- 1. Eligibility: Dentists who meet specific criteria can qualify for loan forgiveness programs.
- 2. Types of Loans Covered: These programs typically apply to various types of student loans taken by dentists.
- 3. Service Requirements: Dentists must fulfill specific service obligations, such as working in underserved areas or participating in public health programs.
- 4. Forgiveness Amount: The amount of loan forgiveness available to dentists can vary based on factors such as the length of service and the specific program.
- 5. Application Process: Dentists interested in these programs need to follow a specific application process to be considered for loan forgiveness.
In addition to the points mentioned above, it is worth noting that some loan forgiveness programs for dentists offer additional benefits, such as tax advantages or grants for continuing education. Exploring these unique details can further assist dentists in making informed decisions regarding their student loan repayment options.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to alleviate the burden of student loans. Take advantage of the loan forgiveness programs available for dentists today. Act now and secure a brighter financial future while pursuing a fulfilling career in dentistry.
State-Specific Loan Repayment Programs for Dentists: Unlocking the Benefits
State-specific loan repayment programs for dentists offer advantageous opportunities for dental professionals to ease their financial burden. Here’s what you need to know:
- Tailored Assistance: State-specific loan repayment programs provide individualized support to dentists, ensuring their unique needs are met. These programs aim to alleviate the strains of student loan repayment, enabling dentists to focus on their practice.
- Varied Benefits: These programs offer a range of benefits, including loan forgiveness, loan repayment, and grants. Dentists can take advantage of these provisions to tackle their student loan debt and establish a stable financial future.
- Local Impact: State-specific loan repayment programs contribute to the local dental workforce by encouraging dentists to practice in underserved areas. This strategic approach addresses the shortage of dental professionals in certain regions, improving access to quality oral healthcare for communities in need.
Furthermore, these programs also support dentists in pursuing their professional goals, fostering career growth and collaboration among dental practitioners. Find your state-specific breakdown below:
Alaska
The SHARP-II program in Alaska aims to fill shortages in certain areas and provide access to a variety of healthcare professionals, including dentists and dental hygienists. In exchange, the program offers dentists loan repayment assistance of up to $35,000 per year ($20,000 for hygienists). This number could increase to $47,000 ($27,000 for hygienists) for hard-to-fill positions.
Initial contracts are for a three-year period. After the initial contract period, employees may be eligible for another contract and award. You can find out more here.
Arizona
Under the Arizona State Loan Repayment Program, dentists may be able to get a good chunk of their loans paid off by working in an HPSA or Medically Underserved Areas, as designated by the program.
Eligible candidates must work at a qualified site and commit to an initial two-year service agreement.
The award amount depends on the rank of the HPSA, but qualified candidates can receive as much as $65,000 for the initial two-year service period. Awards decrease in amount after the initial service agreement. To find out more, go here.
California
Under the California State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP), qualified dentists and dental hygienists who practice in designated HPSAs may be eligible for loan repayment assistance.
Eligible candidates who work full-time can receive up to $50,000 in repayment assistance for an initial two-year service agreement and can extend the contract after the initial commitment. The program pays for half of the award and requires the site, which must be on the SLRP Certified Eligible Site List, to match the award.
In addition, the California Dental Association (CDA) offers a student loan repayment grant, which provides loan assistance to dentists looking to work in public health. The grant provides $35,000 per year in loan repayment assistance for a period of up to three years, for a total of $105,000. Eligible candidates must practice in California and work in an underserved community as designated by the CDA Foundation.
As of the writing of this article, the 2020 CDA program had been put on hold, but you can check back here to stay up to date.
Colorado
The Colorado Health Service Corps offers loan repayment assistance to general and pediatric dentists who practice in HPSAs. Qualified dentists who work full-time may receive up to $90,000, while dental hygienists may be awarded as much as $20,000.
Part-time employment is also eligible and is half the amount of full-time workers, so dentists would receive up to $45,000 and dental hygienists would receive up to $10,000. Candidates must agree to serve at an approved site for three years.
In addition, dentists in Colorado may be eligible for the state loan repayment program. Candidates must agree to serve a two-year term at an approved site. Dentists can receive between $25,000 and $50,000 depending on how many patients they see, while dental hygienists can receive between $6,000 to $12,000 depending on the number of people they serve.
District of Columbia
Under the DC Health Professional Loan Repayment Program, dentists and dental hygienists may be eligible for loan repayment assistance. In order to qualify, candidates must already be employed at an approved Service Obligation Site (SOS). In exchange for serving full-time at an SOS, candidates can receive up to $151,841.29 over a four-year period. Dental hygienists may be able to get up to $83,510.61.
For more information, you can go here.
Delaware
Through the Delaware State Loan Repayment Program, general and pediatric dentists who work at a qualified HPSA may be eligible for loan repayment assistance. Practitioners have opportunities to work full time, which is classified as 40 hours per week, or a part-time schedule of 20 to 39 hours.
Awards range from $30,000 to $100,000. Each applicant must commit to two years of full-time employment in a federally designated HPSA. You can find out more about the program here.
Georgia
The Dentists for Rural Areas Assistance Program offers loan repayment assistance to licensed dentists who serve in medically underserved, rural areas of Georgia. Contracts are awarded $25,000 for one year of full-time service, which may be renewable for up to four years total and a maximum of $100,000.
For more information, you can go here.
Illinois
Under the Illinois National Health Service Corps State Loan Repayment Program, dentists who work full-time or half-time in a HPSA may be eligible for repayment assistance.
Eligible candidates must work in an HPSA for at least two years and can receive up to $25,000 each year, for a maximum award of $50,000. An additional third and fourth year may be added on after the initial service period is over. For more information, you can go here.
Iowa
The Delta Dental of Iowa Loan Repayment Program offers an annual award of $50,000 over three years for repayment assistance.
In addition, there is also funding available through Fulfilling Iowa’s Need for Dentists (FIND) program, an extension of the Delta Dental of Iowa Loan Repayment Program. In this program, dentists receive up to $100,000 in loan repayment over a period of five years if they agree to allocate 35% of their services to underserved patient populations in rural areas. For more information, you can go here.
Kansas
Under the Kansas State Loan Repayment Program, dentists and dental surgeons who work in an HPSA can receive loan repayment assistance of up to $25,000 per year for two years, then potentially $20,000 for a third year, $15,000 for a fourth year and $10,000 for a fifth year. Dental hygienists can receive up to $20,000 for a two-year commitment, and potentially $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000 for the next three years.
In addition, there’s the Kansas Initiative for New Dentists (KIND) Program, which helps recruit dentists in an effort to establish private practices that are in underserved or rural areas of Kansas. Qualified candidates can receive up to $50,000 over a three-year period.
Kentucky
The Kentucky State Loan Repayment Program offers dentists and dental hygienists who work in underserved areas loan repayment assistance for a two-year service period.
Dentists can receive up to $80,000, while dental hygienists can earn as much as $20,000. This is a match program, meaning that for every federal dollar contributed, there must be a dollar match from a source such as an employer, private foundation, corporation, or community organization.
You can get more details about the program here.
Louisiana
The Louisiana State Loan Repayment Program offers loan repayment assistance to medical professionals, including dentists and dental hygienists, who work full-time at a designated HPSA or nonprofit.
Dentists can receive up to $30,000 per year ($15,000 for dental hygienists) in exchange for a three-year service commitment. Once the initial commitment is served, eligible candidates with remaining loans may extend the contract for an additional two years. You can read more about the award here.
Maine
The Maine Dental Education Loan Repayment Program offers dentists working in underserved areas loan repayment assistance.
In exchange for serving a two-year commitment, candidates can receive up to $20,000 each year if they received a first program loan before Jan. 1, 2020, and $25,000 for those who received their first loan on or after this date. Participants can extend the contract for an additional two years after the initial commitment is served.
The maximum award amount for qualified candidates is $80,000 for dentists who received a first program loan before Jan. 1, 2020, and up to $100,000 for those who entered a first loan agreement on or after that date.
You can get more details here.
Maryland
The state of Maryland offers loan repayment assistance to dentists serving the state’s most vulnerable populations through the Maryland Dent-Care Loan Assistance Repayment Program.
The program requires a three-year commitment; in exchange for serving, eligible dentists can receive up to $23,740 per year. Five dentists in Maryland may be selected for the program each year, though it is dependent on funding. You can read more about the program here.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is currently offering health professionals (including dentists and dental hygienists) up to $50,000 in loan repayment assistance in exchange for a two-year commitment to serve in a designated HPSA. You can learn more about the program and how to apply here.
Michigan
Under the Michigan State Loan Repayment Program, qualified dentists can receive significant loan repayment assistance. Dentists who work in eligible nonprofit practice sites can receive a maximum of $200,000 for a service commitment of up to eight years. Eligible candidates must work full-time with a minimum two-year commitment. You can find more information on the program here.
Minnesota
Through the Minnesota State Loan Repayment Program, dentists and dental hygienists who work in designated HPSAs may be eligible for loan repayment assistance.
In exchange for a two-year commitment, candidates can receive up to $20,000 per year in loan repayment assistance for full-time work; half-time workers may receive up to $10,000 per year.
For more information, you can go here.
Missouri
The Missouri Health Professional State Loan Repayment Program offers loan repayment assistance to qualified dentists who work in designated HPSAs. Candidates must serve a two-year commitment and in exchange can receive up to $50,000 per year. You can read more about the program here.
Montana
Through the Montana State Loan Repayment Program, qualified dentists and dental hygienists who work in designated HPSAs may be eligible for loan repayment assistance.
In exchange for two years of service, candidates who work full-time may receive up to $15,000. You can read more about this program here.
Nebraska
The Nebraska Loan Repayment Program offers dentists working in designated shortage areas loan repayment assistance. There are two programs offered, and one application for both: The State Loan Repayment program and NHSC State Loan Repayment. After you fill out the application, you will be informed about which program, if any, for which you qualify.
This program is a matching program, so the site or a local entity must match the state dollars provided. Eligible candidates must serve two to four years, depending on the program (one is a three-year contract program, while the other is two years with the possibility of an extension to four), and may receive up to $200,000 total.
You can find more information on the program here.
Nevada
The Nevada Health Service Corps aims to recruit healthcare professionals to serve rural areas in exchange for loan repayment assistance.
Qualified dentists and dental hygienists are eligible to receive funds. Candidates typically need to work full-time and commit to two years of service. Awards are based on available funding. For more information, go here.
New Hampshire
The New Hampshire State Loan Repayment Program offers loan repayment assistance to dentists and dental hygienists working in designated shortage areas and medically underserved areas.
In order to qualify, candidates must commit to three years of full-time work or two years of part-time work. In exchange, dentists may receive up to $75,000 for a full-time commitment ($27,500 for part-time), and they may extend their contract for two years at $40,000 in additional funding ($10,000 for part-time). Dental hygienists are eligible for $30,000 and can extend their contract another for up to $10,000 (for part-time, it’s $17,500, and an additional $5,000 for another year).
At the time of publication, funding for this program was in flux, so you can check back here for updates.
New Mexico
The New Mexico Health Professional Loan Repayment Program offers dentists working at a qualified HPSA. Candidates must be licensed in New Mexico and work full-time to qualify for this program. The website does not specify funding amounts, but notes that “payments are made on a quarterly basis to the loan servicer directly upon verification of employment for the quarter.” You can find more information about the program here.
North Carolina
The state of North Carolina offers incentives to healthcare professionals who work in rural or underserved areas. General practice dentists may receive up to $100,000 in exchange for a four-year commitment, and there are also opportunities for dental hygienists (up to $60,000 for four years). You can read more about the program here.
North Dakota
The North Dakota Dental Loan Repayment Program aims to attract dentists in North Dakota to serve in areas of need. Qualified candidates who are selected may receive up to $100,000 in loan repayment assistance for a service agreement of up to five years in a public health clinic, a nonprofit clinic, or a practice with a focus on underserved patients. You can read more about the program here.
Ohio
The state of Ohio offers loan repayment assistance to dentists and dental hygienists through the Ohio Dentist Loan Repayment Program (ODLRP) and Ohio Dental Hygienist Loan Repayment Program (ODHLRP).
These programs offer up to $25,000 annually in exchange for a two-year commitment if you work full-time at a qualified site. Qualified candidates can renew their contract after their initial service obligation for two more one-year contracts for up to $35,000 annually for a third and fourth year of service. Read more about the programs here.
Oklahoma
The Oklahoma Dental Loan Repayment Program aims to recruit dentists to serve underserved communities. The program offers assistance to 25 dentists for a period of two to five years, and qualified candidates can receive up to $25,000 per year in loan repayment assistance. See more about the program here.
Oregon
The Oregon Partnership State Loan Repayment Program offers dentists and dental hygienists loan repayment assistance in exchange for a two-year service commitment working in an HPSA. Full-time dentists may receive up to a total of 50% of their qualifying student loan debt, up to a maximum of $35,000 per year, for an initial two-year commitment. You can read more here.
Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Primary Care Loan Repayment Program offers loan repayment assistance to healthcare providers who work in underserved communities. In exchange for a two-year service agreement, dentists can receive up to $100,000 in loan repayment assistance for full-time work and $50,000 for part-time work. (There are also opportunities available for dental hygienists.) Per the website, the program is not currently accepting applications, but you can check here for updates.
Rhode Island
The Rhode Island Health Professionals Loan Repayment Program provides loan repayment assistance to a variety of healthcare professionals who work in underserved communities. Dentists must commit to a two-year service agreement; those working part-time must commit to four years. Specific award amounts are not available on the website. Check out this PDF for more information on the program and how to apply.
South Carolina
The South Carolina Rural Dentist Program offers loan repayment assistance to dentists who serve in designated HPSAs or those who serve on the faculty of the Medical University of South Carolina’s dental program. Priority is given to applicants who intend to put down roots in their practice area and stay beyond the funding period, both in the community and in their form of practice. Loan amounts may vary. You can find out more about the program here.
South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Health has a Recruitment Assistance Program that offers eligible dentists “incentive payment” in exchange for three years of service in a rural community. Awards given to qualifying dentists can total $231,384. Read more about this program here.
In addition, Delta Dental of South Dakota provides loan repayment assistance to dentists who work with a percentage of Medicaid patients in their practice. Award amounts are between $40,000 and $100,000 and vary depending on service.
Vermont
The Vermont Educational Loan Repayment Program for Dentists offers loan repayment assistance to dentists who work at a qualified site. Applicants must work at least 20 clinical hours per week for at least 45 weeks per year. Qualified candidates can receive up to $20,000 in funds each year, with a minimum award of at least $10,000. You can go here to read more about the program and keep up to date on application requirements.
Virginia
Under the Virginia State Loan Repayment Program, dentists, as well as registered dental hygienists, may receive non-taxed incentive awards in exchange for two years of service at a qualified site or designated HPSA. This is a matching program, so the site would need to match each dollar the program provides. The maximum award is $140,000 for a four-year service obligation. Find out more about the program here.
Washington
Washington State offers two programs aimed to recruit healthcare professionals to fill in the gap in critical shortage areas: a federal and state repayment plan.
These programs offer loan repayment assistance to dentists and dental hygienists who work full-time and commit to a two- or three-year term of service. It is possible to serve part-time in the state program.
The federal health program offers a maximum award of $70,000 with a two-year service agreement. The state program features a three-year commitment with a maximum award of $75,000. You can go here to read more FAQs on the program.
West Virginia
Through the Dental Workforce Loan Reimbursement Program, dentists may be eligible for loan assistance. Candidates must commit to serving in a HPSA. The amounts available are $40,000 for an initial two-year commitment, $25,000 per year for an additional two-year commitment, and a maximum of four years of funding for $90,000 total. You can find out more information here.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin dentists and dental hygienists who work in designated shortage areas may be eligible for loan repayment assistance. In exchange for three years of service, dentists can receive up to $50,000 ($25,000 for dental hygienists) in loan assistance. You can read more about the program here.
Conclusion: Exploring Your Options for Student Loan Repayment as a Dentist
As a dentist, it is crucial to explore viable options for repaying student loans. Evaluating strategies for student loan repayment as a dentist is essential to ensure a sustainable financial future. Dentists have unique considerations when it comes to loan repayment, and understanding the available options is key. Although the previous paragraphs have discussed these options extensively, there are a few additional details to note. When exploring loan repayment as a dentist, it is important to consider factors such as loan forgiveness programs specifically designed for dentists, income-driven repayment plans tailored to dental professionals, and potential tax implications. By being aware of these details, dentists can make informed decisions about their student loan repayment journey.
To provide some history on this topic, it is worth mentioning that the rising cost of dental education has led to an increased focus on student loan repayment options for dentists. With the average dental school debt exceeding six figures, dentists face significant financial challenges. As a result, various programs and initiatives have been established to assist dentists in managing their loan repayment obligations. These efforts aim to alleviate the burden of debt and enable dentists to focus on their professional growth and to provide quality dental care.
Some Facts About Student Loan Repayment Dentists:
- ✅ Dentists with federal student loans can explore income-driven repayment programs to help manage their loan payments.
- ✅ Refinancing can be a strategy for dentists to lower their interest rates and save money on student loan repayment.
- ✅ Dentists working in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) may qualify for loan forgiveness programs, but it may require them to work in specific locations for a specified period of time.
- ✅ The Public Service Loan Forgiveness program offers dentists the opportunity to have their federal loans forgiven after 10 years of qualifying payments while working in eligible nonprofit or public service agencies.
- ✅ Dentists serving in the Army, Navy, Indian Health Service, or through the National Health Service Corps may be eligible for loan repayment assistance programs.
FAQs: Student Loan Repayment Dentists
1. How can dental professionals receive loan forgiveness for their student loans?
Dental professionals can explore various loan forgiveness programs, such as working in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) or qualifying for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. These programs often require a commitment to a certain location or organization for a specific period of time.
2. Are income-driven repayment plans available for dental school loans?
Yes, dental professionals with federal student loans can consider income-driven repayment programs to make their monthly payments more affordable. However, these options are not available for private loan borrowers.
3. What are the benefits and drawbacks of refinancing dental school loans?
Refinancing can help make student loan payments more manageable and potentially save money through lower interest rates. However, refinancing federal loans into private loans means losing access to federal benefits like income-driven repayment and deferment.
4. Can dental assistants and hygienists qualify for loan forgiveness programs?
Yes, dental assistants and hygienists may be eligible for loan forgiveness programs such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program or the Indian Health Service Loan Repayment Program, depending on their employment and service commitments.
5. How can dentists receive loan repayment assistance through military service?
By serving as dentists in the Army or Navy, professionals can receive loan repayment assistance of up to $120,000 or $40,000 per year, respectively. These programs require a minimum commitment of two years.
6. Are there state-specific loan repayment programs available for dental professionals?
Yes, in addition to national programs, many states offer loan repayment programs for dental professionals. One example is the SHARP-II program, which provides loan repayment assistance to dental professionals in certain states.