Dentistry Degrees

Studying Dentistry in Australia

Dentistry is a vital branch of healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral conditions, many of which are closely linked to overall health and well-being. Dentists are not only clinicians but also scientists, educators, and public health advocates. Their work plays a critical role in preventing oral disease, managing dental disorders, and identifying early signs of systemic health issues such as oral cancer and diabetes.

Australia is home to some of the world’s top dental schools, offering rigorous academic programmes combined with practical, hands-on experience. Students gain exposure to the latest advancements in dental technology, clinical treatment techniques, and research innovation. Many institutions partner with public hospitals, regional health clinics, and research centres, enabling students to work with diverse patient populations and contribute to real-world oral health outcomes. For international students, studying dentistry in Australia presents a unique opportunity to train within a world-class healthcare education system.

With cutting-edge facilities, strong links to clinical placements, and globally recognised qualifications, Australian dentistry degrees equip students with the academic, technical, and ethical grounding needed for a rewarding career in oral healthcare. In addition, dentistry is a high-demand field in Australia and globally, offering graduates excellent career prospects in clinical practice, research, academia, or specialist care.

Types of Dentistry Courses in Australia

Bachelor of Dentistry

The Bachelor of Dentistry (or equivalent undergraduate degree, such as the Bachelor of Dental Surgery or Bachelor of Oral Health) is typically a five-year programme that introduces students to the scientific and clinical foundations of dental care.

Students study a wide range of subjects, including dental anatomy, oral pathology, dental materials, radiography, pharmacology, and preventive care. They also begin clinical training early in the course, gradually developing the skills required to assess, diagnose, and manage oral health issues across all age groups. The programme fosters professional competencies such as communication, ethics, and patient care, preparing graduates for entry into the profession or for postgraduate study.

Master’s of Dentistry

The Master of Dentistry is usually undertaken after completing a relevant undergraduate qualification such as the Bachelor of Dental Health Science. It forms the final phase of training for those seeking registration as general dentists in Australia.

This two-year programme blends advanced theoretical coursework with supervised clinical practice across regional and urban dental clinics. Students refine their diagnostic and procedural skills, manage complex cases, and build experience in delivering comprehensive patient-centred care. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia and begin practising as fully qualified dentists.

PhD in Dentistry

A PhD in Dentistry is a research-intensive programme designed for dental professionals seeking to specialise or enter academic and research careers. The programme focuses on developing high-level expertise in both clinical practice and dental science through original research in areas such as oral health policy, biomaterials, dental public health, and advanced clinical disciplines.

Students can pursue specialisations in fields such as:

• Endodontics

• Oral Medicine

• Orthodontics

• Paediatric Dentistry

• Periodontics

• Prosthodontics

• Special Needs Dentistry

A doctoral qualification can lead to roles in specialist practice, university teaching, advanced research, and leadership in public health or policy development.

Dentistry Scholarships

Australia offers several scholarships for dentistry students to help them achieve their academic and career goals. These scholarships ease the financial burden on aspiring dentistry students and promote values such as environmental responsibility and social justice.

• Sir James McNeill Postgraduate Research Scholarship (Monash University): A prestigious scholarship for research students focusing on environmental responsibility and social benefit.
• Molly Schacht Dental Scholarship (University of Adelaide): Established in memory of Molly Schacht, an advocate for women’s rights and social justice, this scholarship supports students who align with Molly’s values.
• Dental Board of Western Australia Scholarship (University of Western Australia): The Dental Board of Western Australia provides funds to the University of Western Australia to assist eligible students facing financial hardship in pursuing their Doctor of Dental Medicine studies.

Jobs and Careers

Graduates of dentistry programmes in Australia are in strong demand both locally and internationally. Career paths include:

• General Dentist: Most graduates start their careers as general dentists, providing a wide range of dental services to patients.
• Specialist Dentist: With additional training, dentists can specialise in orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, or endodontics.
• Dental Hygienist: Dental hygienists work alongside dentists and focus on preventive oral care, cleaning, and patient education.
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: These specialists perform surgical procedures on the mouth, jaws, and face, often collaborating with other medical professionals.
• Orthodontist: Orthodontists use braces or other orthodontic devices to correct misaligned teeth and jaws.
• Pediatric Dentist: Paediatric dentists specialise in treating children and adolescents, ensuring their dental health and comfort.
• Periodontist: Periodontists focus on treating gum diseases and conditions related to the gums and supporting structures.
• Prosthodontist: Prosthodontists specialise in restoring and replacing damaged or missing teeth with prosthetic devices such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.

Australia’s health workforce strategy also encourages international graduates, especially those trained regionally, to contribute to dental care in underserved areas.

Salary

After completing a dentistry program in Australia, dentists can expect to earn a competitive salary, ranging from $82,000 to $140,000 annually. Salaries may vary depending on experience, specialisation, location, and whether they work in private practice or the public sector.

Top Universities for Dentistry in Australia

To learn more about the dentistry universities in Australia, find details on the top-ranking Dentistry degrees in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 below:

1. University of Melbourne
2. University of Queensland
3. Griffith University
4. University of Adelaide
5. University of Sydney
6. University of Western Australia

Study Dentistry in Australia

If you want to study for a dentistry degree in Australia, arrange a free consultation today. Our expert team can assist with course selection, scholarship availability and how to apply. You’re in good hands.

FAQs

Is studying biology to do a dental course mandatory?

While it’s not always mandatory, having a background in biology can be highly beneficial for dental courses. It provides a solid foundation for understanding oral health and the biological aspects of dentistry.

How long does it take to become a dentist in Australia?

The duration varies based on the programme. Typically, it takes around 5 to 7 years to become a dentist in Australia, including undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The exact time frame may depend on the course structure and any prior qualifications.

How much does it cost to study dentistry in Australia?

Studying dentistry in Australia costs between AUD35,000 to AUD120,000 per year, depending on the university, location, and degree structure.