Dentistry is a popular career because it has many different benefits; the main benefits include job security, an attractive salary and the ability to help other people. Becoming a dentist takes many years of hard work and commitment; dental students must complete five or six years of academic study in order to complete their undergraduate degree and then they must go on to pursue postgraduate study or vocational study.
There are a large number of undergraduate dental courses on offer throughout the UK; students are usually required to gain excellent A level grades in largely science-based subjects in order to be offered a place, as competition is fierce. The degree course is much more intensive than most other undergraduate courses and students are expected to put a lot of time and effort into their studies; in addition to exams and essays, students will also gain practical experience by working alongside trained professionals during work placements.
When the student has completed the course, they will then go on to complete a period of postgraduate study or vocational training; generally, those who want to specialise in a certain area of dentistry will go on to complete postgraduate study, while those wanting a general dentistry job will complete the vocational training. All courses must be approved by the General Dental Council.
Once a dentist is qualified they can decide whether they want to work for the NHS or privately; many dentists also choose to do a combination of both. Working privately offers more flexibility and a higher salary; however, working for the NHS offers greater security and benefits such as a pension plan. Typically dentists in London earn more than dentists working in other parts of the country, as living costs and salaries are higher.
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