Studying dentistry abroad

Studying dentistry abroad is a great choice for aspiring dental professionals from around the world.

You will have the chance to receive a quality education, immerse yourself in a new culture, and broaden your career opportunities.

As well as this, studying abroad will provide you with hands-on clinical experience and exposure to a diverse range of patients and oral health issues. This will enhance your practical skills and bedside manner as a health professional.

What is dentistry?

Dentistry is a healthcare field that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions of the teeth, gums, and mouth. It includes specialties like orthodontics (tooth alignment), periodontics (gum health), endodontics (root canal treatment), and oral surgery.

Oral health is vital for overall well-being, and impacts not only essential functions like chewing and speaking, but also personal confidence through a healthy smile.

Dentists perform many different procedures, from routine cleanings and fillings to advanced surgeries, helping to find and address issues early, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.

Preventive care is also important in dentistry, with professionals educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and diet, to reduce future risks of decay and disease.

How long does a dentistry degree take?

A dentistry degree generally takes between five to six years to complete, though the length can vary depending on the country you choose to study in.

In most European countries, dental programs last around five years. For instance, the UK and other parts of Europe offer a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), both of which typically take five years.

In North America, however, students often need a bachelor’s degree in a related subject first, adding an additional three to four years before applying to dental school. Dental programs in the U.S. and Canada usually last four years, making the total time about eight years.

In Australia and New Zealand, dental programs usually span five years, but some universities offer six-year tracks that combine undergraduate and graduate-level studies. In Asia, programs also vary: Japan and South Korea generally require six years, while countries like India offer five-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degrees.

Additional specialisations, like orthodontics or periodontics, can require two to four more years of study. Across the world, dentistry programs are intensive and incorporate both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience, with an emphasis on preparing you to maintain high standards of oral healthcare in your practices.

Why study dentistry abroad?

You should consider studying dentistry abroad as it gives you the opportunity to receive high-quality education, get exposed to different healthcare systems, and experience a diverse cultural environment.

Many countries offer dental programs with state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum that equips you with the latest skills and knowledge. Studying abroad often means you can gain access to specialised programs and faculty expertise that may not be available in your home country.

Furthermore, international study will broaden your cultural competence, which is vital in today’s globalised healthcare landscape. Students who study dentistry abroad gain a deeper understanding of diverse patient needs and treatment approaches, better preparing you for international practice or returning home with a competitive edge.

Additionally, studying dentistry in countries like the US, UK, or Australia can open doors to extensive professional networks and career opportunities worldwide, enhancing your personal and professional growth.

What you will study

A dentistry degree offers you an in-depth education on oral health, anatomy, and the skills needed to diagnose, treat, and prevent various dental issues.

Initially, you will study foundational sciences like biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology, focusing on the head, neck, and oral structures.

You will then progress to specialised topics, including oral pathology, which examines diseases affecting the mouth, gums, and teeth, and periodontology, which focuses on gum health.

You will also gain practical skills in clinical settings, learning how to assess patients, take X-rays, perform cleanings, and complete restorative procedures like fillings and crowns.

Training in orthodontics and prosthodontics introduces you to tooth alignment and the design of dental prosthetics, such as dentures or veneers.

Ethics, communication, and patient care are integral parts of the curriculum, equipping you with the skills to manage diverse cases and provide compassionate care.

By the end of the program, you will be prepared to promote oral health and address a wide range of dental issues.

If you think your future is in the healthcare field, but aren’t yet set on a dentistry degree, consider these other degree options:

• Dental hygiene
• Public health
• Biomedical materials
• Medicine
• Nursing
• Pharmacology or pharmacy
• Biomedical sciences

Accreditation

Dentistry degrees are accredited by various national and international bodies to ensure educational standards align with the required clinical quality levels. Accreditation is important as it validates the education and ensures that the institution adheres to the rigorous standards.

For instance, in the United States, dental schools are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), while the General Dental Council (GDC) accredits UK programs.

In Europe, programs may follow guidelines from the Association for Dental Education in Europe (ADEE), ensuring compatibility with EU standards.

Australia and New Zealand follow standards set by the Australian Dental Council (ADC) and Dental Council of New Zealand (DCNZ), respectively.

To practise once you have graduated, you typically must be licensed or registered with a health regulatory authority in your country. This registration often requires passing an examination in addition to completing an accredited program.

For example, in the U.S., graduates must pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and a clinical exam to practise legally. Registered status confirms that practitioners meet professional and ethical standards, safeguarding patient care.

Career options

As a dentistry graduate you will have a range of career options available to you.

You can choose to either work in general practice or pursue a more specialised dentistry field. Many choose to work in private practices, clinics, or hospitals, providing routine care and preventative treatments.

If you wanted to work within a speciality, you would normally have to do some additional training or gain more qualifications.

Another option available to you is working in academia and research. This might involve you teaching at universities or participating in scientific research programs.

Public health dentistry is a path you might also be able to take, where you will work on community health initiatives and policymaking to improve general oral health standards. In terms of non-clinical corporate roles, you could consider working with dental product companies in advisory roles, focusing on product development, safety, efficacy and marketing.