Dentists are medical professionals who treat and cure patients' dental problems. Dentistry courses in the UK are popular worldwide because of the research-based study models universities have in place, state-of-the-art facilities, and world-class teaching.
If you wonder how many years it takes to become a dentist, the answer is 5-6! In the UK, any undergraduate dentistry course you choose generally includes five years of dental study and one year of supervised practice on patients. Students must register with the General Dental Council to be eligible to practise in the UK. Postgraduate dentistry programmes run for 2-4 years, depending on the specialisation you have opted for.
Learn more about the time it takes to become a dentist in the UK below. If you want to study dentistry, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Best UK Universities for Dentistry
According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, the best universities for studying dentistry in the UK are:
1. King’s College London
The Department of Dentistry at King’s College London is the largest in the UK, graduating 150 dental students yearly. Its flagship Dentistry BDS programme provides state-of-the-art clinical, simulation, and technical facilities.
- Courses offered: Dentistry BDS | Orthodontics MSc
2. Queen Mary, University of London
Located in East London, the Institute of Dentistry at the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at Queen Mary, University of London, offers a Dentistry BDS course that provides world-class facilities and a holistic approach to learning.
- Courses offered: Dentistry BDS | Orthodontics DClinDent
3. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers a rigorous study model by exposing students to critical care scenarios early in their learning. Birmingham has been ranked in the top 25 for Dentistry in the world in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2024, and students will learn from subject experts.
- Courses offered: Dental Surgery BDS and Endodontics MSc
4. University College London
The Eastman Dental Institute at University College London is a specialist postgraduate dental facility for students seeking clinically intensive programmes led by specialists in their field. The Eastman Dental Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in Europe, specialising in complex oral health care.
Courses offered: Orthodontics MClinDent | Advanced Aesthetic Dentistry Certificate
5. Cardiff University
At Cardiff University, clinical studies and advanced science are mixed for an ultimate learning experience. The practical aspect of the degree is taken seriously, and students learn to take care of and treat patients in real-life settings under supervision to understand concepts better.
- Courses offered: Dentistry (BDS)
Becoming a Dentist
Are you an Indian student who wants to become a dentist after studying in the UK? Follow these simple steps!
Undergraduate Education: First, you must complete an undergraduate degree in dentistry (Bachelor of Dental Surgery/BDS) at a dental school recognized by the General Dental Council (GDC) in the UK.
GDC Registration: After completing your degree, you must register with the General Dental Council (GDC) to practice as a dentist in the UK.
Foundation Training: Newly qualified dentists in the UK typically undertake one year of foundation training (sometimes called vocational training) within the National Health Service (NHS) or an approved training practice.
Further Training (Optional): Some dentists pursue further training or education in specific areas of dentistry, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Dentists must continue professional development throughout their careers to maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge.
Study Dentistry in the UK
Do you want to apply? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
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