Australia is known for its high standard of healthcare, and dentistry is no exception. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate in Australia or an internationally trained dentist seeking to continue your career Down Under, this guide will walk you through the key steps to Practicing dentistry in Australia.
Why Choose Australia?
Australia offers a well-regulated dental profession, competitive salaries, advanced dental technologies, and a high quality of life. The country is in need of skilled healthcare professionals, including dentists, especially in regional and remote areas. This makes it a promising destination for both local students and international professionals.
Pathway 1: For Students in Australia
If you are a high school student or recent graduate in Australia, here’s how to become a registered dentist:
1. Complete a Recognized Dental Degree
Enrolling in a dentistry program that has been accredited is the initial step. In Australia, you can either pursue:
A Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc) (usually 5 years), or
A Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) (usually 4 years), after completing an undergraduate degree.
Top universities offering these programs include:
University of Sydney
University of Melbourne
University of Queensland
University of Adelaide
James Cook University
2. Register with the Dental Board of Australia (DBA)
Upon graduation, you must apply for registration through the Dental Board of Australia. You’ll also be required to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). There are no additional exams if you have graduated from an accredited Australian program.
3. Ongoing Professional Development
After registration, dentists must participate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs to maintain their license. This ensures skills and knowledge stay up-to-date.
Pathway 2: For Internationally Trained Dentists
If you hold a dental degree from outside Australia, you must go through additional steps to be eligible to practice. The process is managed by the NDEB coaching in India.
1. Initial Assessment
Start with the ADC Initial Assessment. You’ll need to submit:
Proof of identity
Dental qualification(s)
Academic transcripts
Evidence of registration or license to practice in your country
Professional references
If successful, you will be eligible to proceed to the next stages.
2. ADC Written Examination
This exam tests your theoretical knowledge in dentistry. It consists of two papers:
Paper 1: Biomedical and dental sciences
Paper 2: Clinical dentistry
The exams are conducted at Pearson VUE test centers worldwide. You must pass both parts to proceed.
3. ADC Practical Examination
After passing the written test, you’ll be invited to sit the ADC Clinical Examination in Melbourne. This two-day exam tests practical skills in various clinical disciplines such as restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, periodontics, and more.
Passing this stage means you’re eligible to apply for general registration.
4. Apply for General Registration
Once all assessments are cleared, you can apply for registration with AHPRA and the Dental Board of Australia. You must also meet:
English language proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or OET)
Criminal history check
Recency of practice requirements
5. Visa and Work Rights
International dentists will need an appropriate copyright live and work in Australia. The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) and Employer-Sponsored visa (subclass 482) are commonly used by healthcare professionals.
Tips for International Candidates
Prepare early: The process from initial assessment to final registration can take 1–2 years.
Take a prep course: Institutes like Atlas Dental Scholars offer coaching specifically for the ADC exams, which can increase your chances of success.
Stay informed: The ADC and AHPRA websites regularly update requirements and guidelines.
Improve your English: Strong communication skills are crucial for both the exam and clinical practice in Australia.
Career Outlook and Opportunities
Once registered, dentists in Australia can work in:
Private practice
Public dental clinics
Hospitals
Academia and research
Dentists in Australia earn a competitive income, often ranging between AUD $90,000 to over $200,000 annually, depending on experience and location. There are also options for specialization in fields such as orthodontics, periodontics, and oral surgery through postgraduate study.
Final Thoughts
AFK coaching in India is a rigorous but rewarding journey. For local students, it involves pursuing a recognized degree and registration. For international dentists, the ADC assessment process ensures high standards and patient safety. With dedication, proper planning, and the right guidance, you can successfully build a dental career in one of the world’s most respected healthcare systems.