Can a Dental Therapist Become a Dentist in the UK?

April 7, 2025

In the UK, dental therapists play a vital role in supporting oral health by providing preventive and restorative care. But what if a dental therapist wants to take the next step in their career and become a dentist? The good news is — yes, it is possible. With the right qualifications and commitment, a dental therapist can train to become a fully qualified dentist.

What’s the Difference Between a Dental Therapist and a Dentist?

Before looking at the pathway, it’s helpful to understand the difference between the two roles:

  • Dental therapists are trained to carry out a range of treatments such as fillings, extractions of baby teeth, scaling, polishing, and providing oral health education. They often work alongside dentists to support patient care.
  • Dentists have a broader scope of practice, including diagnosing oral diseases, carrying out more complex restorative work, prescribing medication, and performing surgical procedures.

Because of this difference in responsibility and training, additional study is required to move from dental therapy to dentistry.

Pathway to Becoming a Dentist

Here’s how a dental therapist can become a dentist in the UK:

1. Meet Entry Requirements for a Dental Degree (BDS)

Despite their existing qualifications, dental therapists must meet the standard academic requirements to apply for a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree. This usually includes:

  • A-levels (or equivalent) in subjects such as Biology and Chemistry
  • GCSEs including Maths and English
  • Some universities may also accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas or other relevant qualifications

2. Apply Through UCAS

Applications are made via the UCAS system, usually a year in advance of the course starting. Entry is highly competitive, so a strong personal statement, academic background, and reference are important.

3. Take the UCAT

Most UK dental schools require applicants to sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) as part of the admissions process.

4. Consider Graduate Entry Dentistry Courses

Some universities offer graduate entry programmes (usually 4 years instead of 5) for those who already have a degree. A dental therapy degree may be considered, depending on the university.

Examples of universities offering graduate-entry routes include:

It’s important to check with each university whether a dental therapy degree is accepted and if any bridging modules are needed.

5. Complete the Dental Degree (BDS)

Once accepted, you’ll undergo five years of intensive study (or four years for graduate entry), including academic, practical, and clinical training.

6. Foundation Training and Registration

After graduation, you must complete one year of Dental Foundation Training (DFT) and register with the General Dental Council (GDC) as a dentist.

Benefits of a Background in Dental Therapy

Dental therapists often bring a strong foundation of clinical experience and patient care skills into their dentistry studies, which can be a great advantage. Their familiarity with the dental environment can help them stand out both during their studies and in future job applications.

Final Thoughts

While the transition from dental therapist to dentist is not automatic, it’s certainly achievable with dedication and the right qualifications. For those passionate about expanding their role in dentistry, it’s a rewarding route that opens up new opportunities in clinical care, specialisation, and leadership within the profession.

If you’re considering making the move, speak to dental schools directly, explore course requirements early, and start preparing for the UCAT and application process.