A Dental Surgeon is a registered health care professional who has attained a degree in the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). On qualification they will work to standards set and regulated by the General Dental Council (GDC) and provide preventive and restorative treatments for problems that affect the mouth, teeth, head and neck. This is an intellectually stimulating career, largely based on scientific principles, but which can also encompass artistic flair. An important role of the profession is promotion of oral health and prevention of dental diseases.
Most dentists work as self-employed practitioners in general practice, providing dental care to the public under the National Health Service (NHS) and/or privately. Others work in salaried posts within a variety of specialties including hospital and community dentistry, the armed forces, corporate practices, industry, or university teaching and research.
A General Dental Practitioner (GDP) typically leads a team made up of Dental Care Professionals (DCPs) including dental hygienists and therapists, dental nurses and technicians, clinical dental technicians and orthodontic therapists, as well as ancillary staff which may include a practice manager and receptionists. Dental treatment will be carried out on a wide variety of patients, ranging from children to the elderly.
As a registered dental professional, you will have a duty of care to keep up to date with your skills and knowledge in order to give patients the best possible treatment and care throughout your career. Changing techniques and new materials constantly present new opportunities and challenges. Continued Professional Development (CPD) is compulsory for all dentists and additional postgraduate qualifications are required for career specialisation.
Teaching commences in October for Years 1 and 2, and September for Years 3, 4, and 5. The majority of teaching in Year 1 takes place in the Faculty of Science and the School of Clinical Sciences. Clinical teaching and patient treatment take place in Years 2, 3, 4 and 5 within the Dental Hospital and School and in Years 4 and 5 in dedicated community-based facilities.