Dentistry Degree Course Guide

It combines science, medicine, and hands-on technical skills with a strong focus on patient care. Dentists diagnose and treat oral health problems, carry out procedures like fillings and extractions, and help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. If you enjoy working with people, have strong attention to detail, and are interested in science and healthcare, Dentistry could be the right choice for you.

What Is Dentistry Like at University?

Dentistry is a practical and science-based course. You’ll begin with foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, pathology and oral biology, and gradually move into clinical training and direct patient care. In early years, you’ll spend time in labs learning how to use dental instruments and perform procedures on models. As you progress, you’ll work in university dental clinics with real patients under supervision. Communication and professionalism are also key areas of learning, as you’ll be helping people who may be nervous or in pain.

How Long Does It Take and What Are the Options?

In the UK, Dentistry is usually a five-year undergraduate degree known as the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS or BChD). Some universities offer a six-year course if you need a foundation year. There are also four-year graduate entry programmes for those who already have a relevant degree. After graduation, you’ll complete one year of Dental Foundation Training in an NHS practice before becoming fully registered with the General Dental Council.

How Will You Be Taught and Assessed?

You’ll be taught through lectures, seminars, lab work and clinical placements. Assessment is a combination of written exams, practical tests, coursework and clinical assessments. You’ll also be assessed on professionalism, patient communication and your ability to reflect on your clinical experience. As the course progresses, your clinical workload increases and becomes a central part of your learning.

What A Levels or Subjects Do You Need?

Most dental schools require:

Biology — essential
Chemistry — essential or highly preferred
Maths or Physics — useful but not usually required

Some universities may accept applicants with only one science if other academic strengths are shown. You’ll also need strong GCSEs, particularly in Maths, English and Sciences. Applicants usually sit the UCAT admissions test and submit a strong personal statement with relevant work experience, such as shadowing a dentist. Interviews are also part of the admissions process, often in a multiple mini-interview (MMI) format.

What Skills Will You Develop?

A Dentistry degree will give you a blend of scientific, clinical and interpersonal skills, including:

Manual dexterity and precision
Knowledge of oral diseases, anatomy and treatment
Clinical diagnosis and decision-making
Patient communication and empathy
Infection control and health and safety
Teamwork and professional ethics
Time management and attention to detail

You’ll also gain the confidence to work under pressure and provide care in challenging situations.

What Can You Do With a Dentistry Degree?

Once you’ve completed your degree and foundation training, you’ll be a fully qualified dentist. Career options include:

General dental practice (NHS or private)
Hospital dentistry
Community dentistry (working with vulnerable groups)
Specialist training in areas like orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics or paediatric dentistry
Academic or clinical research
Dental public health or policy roles
Working abroad or in humanitarian health care

Many dentists build long-term careers in practice, but others go on to teach, research or specialise. Some combine clinical work with business, owning or managing their own practices.

Studying Dentistry Abroad

Some students choose to study Dentistry outside the UK. This can offer lower tuition fees, shorter application cycles or broader international opportunities, but it’s essential to ensure the course is recognised by the UK General Dental Council if you plan to practise in the UK after graduating.

USA
Dentistry in the US is a graduate programme. You’ll need a four-year undergraduate degree before applying to dental school, which then takes another four years. The admissions test is the DAT. Schools like Harvard, University of Michigan and NYU offer highly respected programmes. Returning to practise in the UK after studying in the US can be complex due to different licensing systems.

Canada
Canada follows a similar model to the US with a four-year pre-dental degree followed by four years of dental school. Dental programmes are highly competitive and mostly aimed at Canadian residents. Studying in Canada may not guarantee easy transfer to UK practice without further exams.

European Union
Several EU countries offer Dentistry in English, including Hungary, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria and Spain. These courses typically last five or six years and are often popular with UK applicants. Some of these programmes are listed by the General Dental Council, which can make it easier to return to work in the UK, though you may still need to take an assessment or adaptation period.

Australia
Australia offers both undergraduate and graduate entry dental programmes. Schools like the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney are internationally respected. You’ll usually need to take the UCAT ANZ or GAMSAT depending on your route. Recognition in the UK may require additional exams or training.

New Zealand
New Zealand has a small number of dental programmes, notably at the University of Otago. This is a competitive six-year programme with excellent training and strong student support. As with Australia, UK recognition may require additional steps.

Studying abroad in Dentistry can offer strong education and new cultural perspectives, but you’ll need to research accreditation, language requirements and registration pathways carefully before applying.

Is Dentistry the Right Course for You?

Dentistry is ideal for students who are scientifically minded, have good manual skills and enjoy working with people. It’s a demanding degree but leads to a respected, well-paid and rewarding career. If you’re interested in health, enjoy solving problems and want to make a positive impact on people’s lives through both technical skill and compassionate care, Dentistry offers a fulfilling and dynamic career path.