Dentistry

What is this course about?

In the Dentistry course, you will learn how to diagnose, treat and prevent dental-related problems.
You will be taught how to clean and scale teeth, restore functions to damaged teeth, and correct hard
and soft tissues to bring out the best smile from your patients.

Common undergraduate dental degrees are the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Doctor of Dental
Medicine (DMD), Bachelor of Dental Science and Bachelor of Dental Surgery.

To be able to practice as a dentist in Malaysia, you must enrol in a medical school recognised by the
Malaysian Dental Council (MDC). For a list of recognised medical schools, visit the MDC’s official
website at: http://mdc.moh.gov.my

What subjects will I be taking?

You will gain clinical exposure in the first year and start treating patients in the second year. Some of
the subjects you can expect to take are:

• Dental Technology
• Dental Public Health
• Dental Materials, Technology and Equipment
• Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine
• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics
How long is this course?
A bachelor’s degree in Dentistry takes approximately four to five years to complete.

What are the skills and characteristics required in this field?

You need to have a high degree of skill, judgment and understanding of human behavior as you will
be dealing with all kinds of people including children. You will also need to have an eye for detail,
dexterity and precision as you carry out treatment around and within the confinements of a patient’s
mouth.

Where do I go after my diploma/degree?

After graduation, you are required to work for the Ministry of Health for three years. On completion,
you can choose to pursue your postgraduate studies and specialise in an area of dentistry such as
orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, paediatric dentistry, oral
pathology & oral medicine, forensic dentistry and community dentistry.

What can I do with a degree in Dentistry?

You will be able to find employment in government hospitals, private hospitals, day care centres,
health clinics and pharmaceutical companies. You can also become an academician, teach at an
educational institution, or start your own dental practice.