Contents
- 1 Why Work as a Dentist in the UK?
- 2 Dentistry Job Market in the UK
- 3 Where Can Dentists Work in the UK?
- 4 Dentists’ Salary in the UK
- 5 Working as a Dentist in the UK with a UK Degree
- 6 How to Work as a Foreign Dentist in the UK
- 7 Dentistry Exams in the UK
- 8 UK Visa Process for Foreign Dentists
- 9 FAQs About Working as a Dentist in the UK
So, you’re considering working as a dentist in the UK? Fantastic choice! The UK offers a robust healthcare system and a welcoming environment for dental professionals. Whether you have a degree from the UK or from overseas, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to work as a dentist in UK.
We’ll cover the necessary steps, required documents, job market insights, and dentist jobs UK salary expectations. If you’re planning to immigrate to UK as a dentist, understanding the process is key.
Why Work as a Dentist in the UK?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why the UK is a great place to work as a dentist. The UK boasts a high standard of healthcare, a diverse patient base, and opportunities for professional growth. Plus, working in the UK means you’ll be part of the prestigious General Dental Council (GDC), which ensures top-notch dental practice standards.
Dentistry Job Market in the UK
The job market for dentists in the UK is generally robust, with opportunities across various settings:
- NHS Practices
- Private Practices
- Community Dentistry
- Academic and Research
- Specializations
Where Can Dentists Work in the UK?
Dentists in the UK can work in a variety of environments:
- General Dental Practices
- Specialist Clinics
- Hospitals
- Community Health Centers
- Research Institutions
- Universities
Dentists’ Salary in the UK
Dentistry can be a lucrative career in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to earn:
Foundation Training
Around £31,000 to £35,000 per year.
NHS Dentist
Salaries range from £40,000 to £70,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Private Practice
Earnings can be significantly higher, often exceeding £100,000 per year for experienced dentists.
Specialists
Those who specialize in fields like orthodontics or oral surgery can earn even more, often upwards of £150,000 per year.
Private Dentist Salary in the UK
Private dentists in the UK can earn significantly more than their NHS counterparts. Salaries for private dentists typically range from £50,000 to over £100,000 per year, depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of their patient base. Highly experienced private dentists or those owning their practices can earn upwards of £150,000 annually.
Working as a Dentist in the UK with a UK Degree
If you’ve graduated from a dental school in the UK, you’re in luck. The process to start working as a dentist is relatively straightforward:
Register with the GDC
The first step is to register with the General Dental Council (GDC). You’ll need your degree, proof of identity, and a completed application form.
Foundation Training
Most UK graduates will need to complete a year of Foundation Training (FT), also known as Vocational Training (VT). This is a supervised year where you work in a dental practice under the guidance of an experienced dentist.
Finding a Job
Once you’ve completed your FT, you’re free to start looking for jobs. You can work in various settings, including NHS practices, private practices, or even as a community dentist.
How to Work as a Foreign Dentist in the UK
If you’ve earned your dental degree outside the UK, the process is a bit more complex but entirely manageable with the right information and preparation:
- GDC Registration
- English Language Proficiency
- Documents Required to Work as a dentist in the UK
- Pass the ORE Test
- Foundation Training (Optional but Beneficial)
- Finding a Job
Dentistry Exams in the UK
For overseas dentists, the key exam is the ORE, consisting of two parts:
ORE Part 1
A written exam covering clinical dentistry, law, and ethics.
ORE Part 2
A practical exam testing clinical skills, including an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) and practical exercises like dental charting and treatment planning.
UK Visa Process for Foreign Dentists
Now, let’s dive into the visa process for working as a dentist in the UK.
Visa Type:
The main visa category for dentists coming to work in the UK is the Skilled Worker visa (previously known as the Tier 2 General visa).
UK Visa Requirements to Work as a Dentist:
- Job Offer with CoS
- Salary Requirements
- English Language Proficiency
- Financial Requirement
Post-CoS Steps:
Once you have the CoS, you can proceed with your visa application:
- Apply for the Visa
- Pay the Fees
- Biometrics Appointment
Visa Application Process:
- Online Application
- Biometrics Appointment
- Supporting Documents
- Decision Waiting Time
- Receiving Your Visa
FAQs About Working as a Dentist in the UK
What qualifications do I need to work as a dentist in the UK?
UK graduates need a dental degree and GDC registration. Overseas dentists need their degrees and pass the ORE, and GDC registration.
How long does the process take for overseas dentists?
Typically, 1 to 2 years, depending on passing the ORE and completing the necessary steps.
How much do dentists make in the UK?
Salaries range from £31,000 for Foundation Training to over £100,000 for experienced dentists in private practice.
Do I need to take an English language test to work as a dentist in the UK?
Yes, overseas dentists usually need to pass the IELTS with a minimum score of 7.0 in each section.
What is the ORE exam for dentists in the UK?
The Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) is a mandatory assessment for overseas-qualified dentists who wish to practice in the UK. It tests candidates’ clinical skills and knowledge to ensure they meet the standards required to register with the General Dental Council (GDC). The ORE is divided into two parts: a written exam and a practical exam.
What documents are required for GDC registration?
Degree certificate, proof of identity, English proficiency, certificate of good standing, completed application form, and proof of address.
Can overseas dentists work as dental hygienists in the UK??
Yes, overseas dentists can work as dental hygienists in the UK, but they must register with the General Dental Council (GDC) as a dental care professional (DCP) and meet specific qualification and language proficiency requirements.