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:

1. NHS Practices
2. Private Practices
3. Community Dentistry
4. Academic and Research
5. 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:

1. GDC Registration
2. English Language Proficiency
3. Documents Required to Work as a dentist in the UK
4. Pass the ORE Test
5. Foundation Training (Optional but Beneficial)
6. 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:

1. Job Offer with CoS
2. Salary Requirements
3. English Language Proficiency
4. Financial Requirement

Post-CoS Steps:

Once you have the CoS, you can proceed with your visa application:

1. Apply for the Visa
2. Pay the Fees
3. Biometrics Appointment

Visa Application Process:

1. Online Application
2. Biometrics Appointment
3. Supporting Documents
4. Decision Waiting Time
5. Receiving Your Visa

FAQs About Working as a Dentist in the UK