If you are a recent dental school graduate, I don't need to tell you about the student loan debt you have.  However today I can tell you about a program that could potentially help you make a dent in those student loan payments.  Delta Dental of Rhode Island has a program that offers up to $20k annually for up to three years if you practice in Rhode Island.  The info and details that Delta provided me are below as well as a link in case you are interested in applying.

As Rhode Island continues to face challenges in ensuring access to dental care, particularly in underserved communities, Delta Dental of Rhode Island is investing $5 million to help attract and retain dentists across the state.

 The Delta Dental of Rhode Island Dentist Loan Repayment Program is now accepting applications from eligible early-career dentists. Administered by the Rhode Island Foundation, the program provides up to $20,000 annually for up to three years in student loan repayment assistance for dentists who commit to practicing in Rhode Island.

Why it matters:

• Student loan debt remains a significant barrier for new dentists entering practice.
• Rhode Islanders in many communities continue to experience challenges accessing oral health care.
• The program supports dentists practicing in a variety of settings, including private practices, DSOs and community health centers, helping strengthen the state's oral health workforce.
• The initiative launched in 2025 and represents a long-term investment in improving access to care while helping new dentists build sustainable careers in Rhode Island. 

Applications are open through August 13.

Additional information and applications are available at RIFoundation.org/DeltaDental.