Dentistry

Bristol’s Dentistry course provides a thorough grounding in biomedical sciences and training in clinical skills delivered by highly respected staff. The School of Oral and Dental Sciences has excellent facilities and refurbished clinical, teaching and research spaces. Students are expected to develop a high standard of professional responsibility and be able to engage with people of all ages and backgrounds. Dentistry suits those with artistic flair who can demonstrate manual dexterity and the ability to carry out detailed work.

Dentistry courses

BDS Dentistry (A206)

Why study Dentistry at Bristol?

The school is committed to the highest standards in education. The restructured curriculum, which is designed to cover all aspects of ‘Preparing for Practice’ as published by the General Dental Council, provides a thorough understanding of biomedical sciences and enables students to begin treating patients in year two. Teaching is delivered through lectures, small-group tutorials, supervised clinical skills training and patient treatment, and e-learning resources. Research and travel opportunities are provided within elective projects.

What kind of student would this course suit?

A dental student must enjoy communicating and interacting with the general public and be able to empathise with people of all ages, social backgrounds and cultures and those with special needs: a student with an excellent academic record, particularly in the sciences, and good time management and organisational skills.

Hand/eye coordination is essential as well as excellent dexterity. Joining this profession requires a lifelong commitment to continued professional development so an interest in learning is essential. Finally, students interested in pursuing a career in dentistry should seek opportunities for work experience to fully inform themselves about the career and the profession.

How is this course taught and assessed?

The majority of this programme is spent learning and working in a clinical environment whether in the skills laboratory or on clinic. In years one and two of the programme, scientific and technical knowledge is taught using traditional lecture, seminar and group teaching alongside laboratory and technical work.

We use a wide range of assessment methods and pride ourselves on the quality of the reflective process and feedback we give our students to support their professional development. Most teaching is based in Bristol Dental Hospital and from year three students have the opportunity to gain community-based teaching experience in a new, purpose built facility at South Bristol Community Hospital.

Health

Certain health conditions may be incompatible with some careers in dentistry. You will be required to complete a health assessment questionnaire and undergo pre-course screening for blood-borne viruses. The health assessment and blood tests are to indentify the few whose health status may place them and/or future patients at risk.

Conduct

Practising dentistry demands the highest standards of professional and personal conduct. In accordance with General Dental Council guidelines on 'Fitness to Practise', some students may not be suitable for a career in dentistry. For example, students who have been convicted of criminal offences may not be considered. All dental students are required to undergo a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check and register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) in line with other health-related programmes in the UK. For further information, please visit the University guidelines on disclosure

What are my career prospects?

After foundation training, you may choose to practise in the NHS or in a community-based dental clinic. Alternatively you may wish to work privately or in a dental hospital where you can specialise in areas such as oral surgery, restorative or paediatric dentistry or orthodontics. BDS graduates also have the opportunity to serve in all branches of the armed forces. You may also choose to gain postgraduate qualifications, enabling you to undertake research at universities and/or teach in a dental school.

What do you particularly like about studying at Bristol?

The fantastic teaching and the integration of my course with the Dental Hospital makes me feel even as a student, that I am making a difference in the community. Not forgetting the amazing location of the University within the heart of Bristol.

Matthew Roach
BDS Dentistry