Overview

Oral health touches every stage of life, and treating and preventing the diseases that affect it requires both scientific rigour and hands-on clinical skill. The BDS Dental Surgery at Newcastle University prepares students for exactly this combination, covering everything from tooth decay to oral cancer within a professionally accredited programme. The degree is recognised by the General Dental Council, entitling graduates to practise across the UK and in many countries worldwide. Students train within Newcastle Dental Hospital, one of the largest integrated teaching and hospital complexes in the country, benefiting from a £5.5 million investment in purpose-built Dental Clinical Simulation Facilities alongside dedicated research laboratories in oral biology and dental materials science. Clinical exposure begins early and builds steadily, with students moving from observing patient care to managing their own patients under supervision as the course progresses. This degree suits those committed to a caring and highly practical profession, and by the final stages students are spending roughly half their time on direct patient care, developing skills across general practice, restorative dentistry, and advanced techniques such as orthodontics and dental implants.

What You'll Learn

The scientific basis of dentistry, including cell biology, metabolism and anatomy of the head and neck

Interpersonal skills and communication for clinical practice

Immunology, basic pharmacology and craniofacial and tooth biology

Dental materials science and microbiology for the dental team

Disease prevention, treatment planning, and management of dental decay and fillings

Root treatments, gum disease management, and denture-making

Safe use of radiographs, administration of local anaesthetics, and management of cross-infection

Advanced techniques including orthodontics, dental implants and intravenous sedation

Professionalism and personal and professional development throughout every stage

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to draw on a thorough understanding of the scientific and clinical foundations of dentistry, from cellular biology through to the diagnosis and treatment of complex oral disease, and will be equipped to critically evaluate evidence-based approaches and apply them to real patient care. Progressive clinical training, beginning with observation and building toward independent patient management under supervision, develops the practical skills needed to carry out a full range of dental procedures safely and confidently. Students will also have the opportunity to specialise through an intercalated degree or an elective period of study in an area of dentistry that interests them, deepening their expertise while reinforcing the professionalism and reflective practice expected of a registered dental surgeon.