Dentistry

Dentistry at degree level trains you to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases of the teeth, gums and oral cavity. You study the biological sciences in depth before moving into clinical dentistry, covering areas such as restorative dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontology and paediatric dentistry. From your second year onwards, you spend increasing amounts of time in dental clinics treating real patients under close supervision, developing your manual dexterity and communication skills alongside your clinical knowledge. A typical week combines lectures, laboratory practicals, simulation-suite sessions using dental manikins, and timetabled patient clinics. Some programmes offer intercalated research years or Erasmus exchange opportunities. By graduation you are competent to practise as a general dentist.

Entry to the BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) at TCD or UCC requires you to sit the Leaving Certificate and the HPAT (Health Professions Admission Test), with both scores combined for CAO ranking. Points requirements are among the highest of any Irish degree, consistently in the very high range. You generally need at least six Leaving Cert subjects including Higher Level Chemistry and either Biology or Physics, plus strong grades in English and Mathematics. There is no dedicated QQI/FET progression route into dentistry, as the clinical nature of the programme means direct LC/HPAT entry is standard. The HEAR and DARE schemes provide reduced-points access for eligible students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds or with disabilities. Mature applicants (aged 23 or over) may apply through the CAO mature route and are considered on the basis of HPAT performance, relevant experience, and interview.

Demand for dentists in Ireland remains consistently strong, with a recognised shortage of practitioners in rural and disadvantaged urban areas. The HSE and private sector both actively recruit newly qualified dentists, and many graduates are employed or self-employed within months of registration. Ireland's growing and ageing population is expected to sustain demand for dental services throughout your career. The profession also offers flexibility, with opportunities for portfolio careers combining clinical practice, research and teaching.