Dentists

Top countries to migrate for a Dentist

Dubai

  • Average annual salary: $176,000
  • Double the salary of Switzerland, low taxes, and a reasonable cost of living make Spain an attractive option for dental professionals.

USA

  • Average annual salary: $146,340
  • While the U.S. offers high salaries, complex policies and varying living costs create diverse circumstances for dentists.

Many international dentists aspire to practice in the U.S.A., drawn by the lucrative healthcare sector and the esteemed status of the profession. The U.S. offers high-paying jobs, and dentists are among the top taxpayers. The reasons behind this trend include better-regulated dental billing, a prevalence of dental insurance, and a well-maintained work-life balance.

For Indian dentists considering the move, several options are available:

  1. DDS/DMD Programs (Option 1):

    • Allows foreign-trained dentists to enter dental schools in the third year or a 2-year International program.
    • Leads to an American Dental degree (DDS/DMD) and grants the ability to practice anywhere in the U.S.A.

  2. M.S./Specialty Programs (Option 2):

    • Offers specialization in various fields, with a program duration of 2-3 years.
    • Allows practice in specific states and requires additional licensure processes.

  3. Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD – Option 3) and General Practice Residency (GPR – Option 4):

    • Programs lasting 12-24 months, providing comprehensive patient care.
    • Limited to certain states and may offer financial benefits.

  4. Faculty Dentist (Option 5):

    • Allows highly qualified foreign-trained dentists to work as faculty members in dental schools.
    • Limited license to practice under supervision in certain states.

  5. Practice in Minnesota (Option 6):

    • Minnesota is the only state granting a license to practice dentistry without additional U.S. schooling.
    • Requires passing the iNBDE and TOEFL, followed by practicing under supervision for three years.

  6. Advanced Clinical Training Program (ACT – Option 7):

    • Conducted at UCLA School of Dentistry for two years, specializing in Restorative Dentistry or Endodontics.
    • Non-CODA accredited but may be accepted in some states.

  1. DDS/DMD Degree:

    • Common route for foreign-trained dentists.
    • Allows admission into U.S. dental schools, leading to an American Dental degree (DDS/DMD).
    • Essential for obtaining a practicing license in any U.S. state.

  2. Cost of DDS Program:

    • Varies between $180,000 to $400,000, depending on the school.
    • Additional expenses include living costs and health insurance, influenced by the school’s location.

  3. Post-Dental School Earnings:

    • Despite high education costs, international dentists typically earn $180,000 – $270,000 annually.
    • Return on investment is considered favorable.

  4. Advanced Standing DDS Program:

    • List of schools offering the Advanced Standing DDS program: CAAPID.

  5. Eligibility for Dental Practice in the U.S.:

    • Three basic requirements for dental licensure: education, written examination, and clinical examination.
    • Application process phases: CAAPID, interviews/bench tests, acceptance, and school start.

  6. Steps for DDS Preparation:

    • Know the application cycle for dental schools (CAAPID and Application, Interview Calls, Acceptance, School Starts).
    • Obtain a DENTPIN: DENTPIN.
    • ECE/WES Evaluation: Convert education marks to GPA system. Most schools require ECE evaluation.
    • INBDE (Integrated National Board of Examination): A 500-item exam costing around $1,110.
    • TOEFL Examination: Measures English proficiency; valid for 2 years.
    • Research and Decide: Explore dental school options based on priorities.
    • CAAPID Cycle: Apply to dental schools through CAAPID. First application costs around $260.

  7. Interviews and Bench Test:

    • Receive interview calls and, in some cases, bench tests from dental schools.
    • Final stages of the application process.

  8. Acceptance:

    • Stay calm and have faith in the process.
    • Acknowledge the challenging journey and focus on giving your best.

Canada

  • Average annual salary: $81,800
  • Public healthcare contributes to well-compensated dental services, with some provinces offering free care to specific demographics.

Dentistry in Canada:

  • Regulated and respected profession.
  • Limited competition, ample job opportunities, and high income for dentists.
  • Requires BDS/DDS/DMD degree and certification by NDEB (National Dental Examining Board of Canada).

Licensure Pathways:

  1. Graduates from Accredited Dental Programs:

  2. Graduates from Non-Accredited Dental Programs:

    • Includes international dentists from various countries.
    • Two Pathways:
      • Completion of NDEB Equivalency Process.
      • Completion of Accredited Qualifying or Degree Completion Program.

NDEB Equivalency Process:

  • Three-step exams: AFK, ACJ, NDECC.
  • AFK Exam: 2 papers, 75 MCQs each. Twice a year, 3 attempts allowed.
  • ACJ Exam: One-day, 120-150 single and MCQs. Twice a year, 3 attempts allowed.
  • NDECC Exam: Clinical skills and situational judgement. Unlimited attempts in 60 months.
  • NDEB Equivalency Process.

NDEB Certification Process:

Accredited Qualifying or Degree Completion Program:

  • Suitable if already a Canadian PR or citizen.
  • Step 1: AFK or ADAT.
  • Step 2: Enroll in a DDS program at a Canadian Dental School.
  • Duration: 2.5-3 years.
  • Participate in NDEB Certification Process after program completion.

Dental Schools with DDS Programs for International Dentists:

  1. University of Toronto
  2. University of Alberta
  3. McGill University
  4. Université de Montréal
  5. Dalhousie University
  6. University of Saskatchewan
  7. University of Manitoba
  8. Western University

NDEB Certification Process for Degree Completion Program:

  • Similar to NDEB Equivalency Process.

Important Considerations:

  • Apply for NBED Equivalency and Credential Verification.
  • Adaptation to Canadian dental system recommended.
  • Coaching education programs available for guidance.

Conclusion:

  • Lengthy and challenging process, but worth the effort for global dental practice.
  • Plan for a longer stay in Canada for preparation and adaptation.

Note: Fees mentioned are approximate and subject to change.

Dental Specialty Equivalency Process:

Eligibility Criteria:

  1. Hold a master’s degree in a dental specialty.
  2. Degree recognized by the government of the country.
  3. Dental specialty recognized in Canada.
  4. Degree not recognized by CDAC (Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada).

Recognized Dental Specialties in Canada:

  1. Dental Public Health
  2. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  3. Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
  4. Periodontics
  5. Orthodontics
  6. Pediatric Dentistry
  7. Oral Medicine and/or Oral Pathology
  8. Endodontics
  9. Prosthodontics

Steps:

Step 1: Dental Specialty Core Knowledge Examination (DSCKE)

  1. Application and Document Submission.
    • Application Fee: CAD 3,000.
    • Required documents include DSCKE Application Form, Confirmation of Degree Completion Form, and Self-Assessment Checklist.
  2. Credential Verification.
  3. Registering for DSCKE.
    • Exam Fee: CAD 3,500.
    • 3-hour exam with 95-100 MCQs.

Step 2: English Proficiency Test (TOEFL/ IELTS)

  • Depending on the dental school, take the English proficiency test.

Step 3: Dental Specialty Assessment and Training Program (DSATP)

  1. Registration Fee: CAD 2,000 – 10,000.
  2. Enroll in DSATP (usually 12 months).
    • Assessment period (3 months).
    • Training period (9 months).
  3. Cost of DSATP Program: CAD 70,000 – 90,000.
  4. Universities with DSATP Programs:
    • University of Alberta (Orthodontics)
    • University of British Columbia (Eight specialist areas)
    • Dalhousie University (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery)
    • University of Toronto (Nine specialist areas)

Step 4: National Dental Specialty Examination (NDSE)

  1. Register for NDSE.
    • Application Fee: CAD 450.
    • Exam Fee: CAD 7,000.
  2. One-day Prometric exam.
  3. Exam Pattern: Basic sciences, clinical diagnosis, and treatment planning.
  4. Passing Standard: Minimum score of 75.

Step 5: NDSE Certification

  1. Provide proof of completion of all DSATP components.
  2. Submit an original letter from the Dean’s Office.
  3. Upon NDSE success, receive an NDEB NDSE certificate.

Step 6: Provincial Licensure

  1. Contact the province for licensure.

Note:

  • The pathway is more suitable with Canadian PR or citizenship.
  • Check specific dental school and province requirements.
  • Costs mentioned are approximate and subject to change.

United Kingdom

  • Average annual salary: $78,638
  • Foreign dentists can practice after clearing the ORE equivalency exam, with favorable weather conditions but a high daily expenditure.
Dentist Registration in the United Kingdom: ORE and LDS Pathways

ORE (Overseas Registration Exam) Pathway:

Eligibility:

  • Dentists from Australia, Hongkong, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa are exempt.
  • Foreign-trained dentists must pass ORE to register with the GDC (General Dental Council).

Application:

  1. Apply through eGDC and provide evidence of clinical experience (minimum 1600 hours).
  2. Submit proof of English proficiency through IELTS (Academic) with a score of at least 7 in each section.

Exams:

  • Part 1 (Written Exam): Clinically applied dental science, human disease, clinical dentistry, law, ethics, health, and safety.

    • Duration: 3 hours
    • Format: Multiple short answer questions
    • Cost: £806

  • Part 2 (Clinical Exam): Practical clinical skills demonstration.

    • Up to four attempts allowed for each part.
    • Pass Part 2 within five years of passing Part 1.
    • Cost: £2,929

Post-ORE:

  • Upon passing Part 2, apply for GDC registration.
  • Evaluation for NHS practice may require Vocational Training equivalence training.

LDS (License in Dental Surgery) Pathway:

Eligibility:

  • Candidates with qualifications not recognized by the GDC.
  • Evidence of clinical experience (minimum 1600 hours) and IELTS score (7 in each section).

Exams (3 parts from June 2022):

  1. Part 1 (Written Exam):

    • Single best answer (SBA) and extended matching questions (EMQ).
    • Papers: clinically applied dental science, human disease, clinical dentistry, law, ethics, health, and safety.
    • Cost: £900
    • Exam Details

  2. Part 2 (Clinical Exam):

    • Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) and ‘unseen case’ exam.
    • Candidates must pass Part 2 within five years of passing Part 1.
    • Cost: £1,575
    • Exam Details

  3. Part 3 (Operative Assessment):

    • 180-minute operative assessment on a dental manikin.
    • Candidates must pass Part 2 to be eligible for Part 3.
    • Cost: £1,525
    • Exam Details

Post-LDS:

  • After passing all parts, apply for GDC registration.
  • Completion fee of £230 for an FDS Royal College of Surgeons of England diploma.
  • Serology test and basic life support (BLS) course required.

Important Notes:

  • Limited exam seats, plan visa interviews and exam dates accordingly.
  • Cost figures are approximate and may change.
  • Both pathways lead to GDC registration, but ORE is more common, while LDS is less common and recognized internationally.

Switzerland

  • Average annual salary: $96,800
  • Switzerland prioritizes oral and dental health, resulting in relatively high pay for dentists.

Australia

  • Average annual salary: $73,600
  • Dentists in Australia are top earners in medicine, requiring licensing and registration from the Dental Board of Australia.

Eligibility:

  • Dentists from New Zealand, the UK, Ireland, or Canada can practice in Australia without ADC exams.
  • Overseas dentists need a 3-stage qualification assessment from the Australian Dental Council (ADC).

ADC Exams:

Step 1 – Initial Assessment:

  • Document assessment including qualifications, work experience, and registration history.
  • Eligibility if completed at least four years of full-time study at an approved university and registered as a dentist.
  • Cost: AUD $610
  • Time Frame: Approximately 8 weeks
  • ADC Initial Assessment

Step 2 – Written Examination:

  • Tests knowledge, clinical judgment, and reasoning skills in dentistry.
  • Can be taken from home country or Australia.
  • Cost: AUD $2,000
  • Time Frame: Approximately five months
  • ADC Written Examination

Step 3 – Practical Examination:

  • Assesses competency in dental practice.
  • Two-day examination in Australia.
  • Cost: AUD $4,500
  • Time Frame: Approximately four to seven months
  • Attempts allowed within 3 years after passing theory exams.
  • ADC Practical Examination

Registration Requirements:

  1. English Proficiency:

  2. Criminal History Check:

  3. Visa and Migration:

    • Completing ADC exams enables registration with the Dental Board of Australia (DBA).
    • Separate visa application required for migration.
    • Australian Immigration

Timeline and Cost:

  • Average duration: 1.5-2 years.
  • Estimated cost: INR 8-10 lakhs, covering exam assessments, DBA registration, English proficiency test, living, and food expenses.

New Zealand

  • Average annual salary: $73,700
  • Equivalence exams, including NZDREX, are necessary to practice, with experienced dentists earning the highest salaries.

United Arab Emirates

Lucrative salaries, quick licensing, and a vibrant lifestyle make the UAE an attractive destination for dental professionals.

Dental Practice in the UAE: Key Steps and Exams

Average Income:

  • Dentist salary in the UAE ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 20,000 per month.
  • Average Dentist salary is AED 180,000 per year.
  • Highest salary: Dubai – AED 303,500; Abu Dhabi – AED 129,611; Sharjah – AED 109,428; Ajman – AED 81,961; Umm Al-Quwain – AED 100,201; Fujairah – AED 95,436; Ras Al Khaimah – AED 148,688.

Licensing Exams:

Dubai (DHA Exam):

  • Initial assessment on DHA Sheryan website with a fee of AED 200.
  • Credential review time: 2 – 4 weeks.
  • Document submission, Primary Source Verification (PSV), and eligibility exam.
  • Prometric assessment (Theory exam – CBT) with 150 MCQs in 2.5 hours.
  • Results in 5 working days, Eligibility Letter valid for 1 year.
  • Renewal without re-exam if no job within 1 year.

Abu Dhabi and Al Ain (DOH/HAAD Exam):

  • Create a unique ID, apply for Primary Source Verification, and submit required documents.
  • Credential verification approval, book Prometric assessment (DOH exam).
  • Similar to DHA process with eligibility for Abu Dhabi and Al Ain only.

Sharjah, Ajman, Ras al-Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm al-Quwain (MOH Exam):

  • Register on MOH website, submit documents, and request Primary Source Verification.
  • DataFlow process, choose MOH exam date (Prometric).
  • Pass allows job search and work in specified emirates.
  • Results in 48 hours, valid for 5 years.

Exam Details:

  • Exam Duration: 3 hours for 150 MCQs.
  • Pass Score: 60% for DHA and MOH, 65% for DOH (HAAD).
  • Total Attempts: 3 attempts across authorities, then reapply for a higher title.
  • Break in Practice: Non-UAE nationals with a gap of more than 5 years need CPD points or training.

License Conversion:

  • DHA Eligibility Letter converts to a license with job and required documents.
  • Similar conversion processes for DOH (Abu Dhabi and Al Ain) and MOH licenses.

Considerations:

  • Choose emirate before exam preparation, as results may not transfer.
  • Job search platforms: LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor.
  • Exam result valid for 5 years, Eligibility Letter valid for 1 year.

Cost:

  • Exam fees, DataFlow verification, and licensing fees apply.
  • DHA License Issue Fee: AED 3020 + Delivery fees AED 20 (employer may contribute).

Note:

  • Dentists with a gap of clinical practice over 5 years (10 years for UAE nationals) may face restrictions.
  • CPD points or additional training recommended for applicants with a practice gap.

Ireland

  • Average annual salary: $65,600
  • Dentists in Ireland can include private fees, attracting U.K. professionals with higher wages.

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