Top 5 Universities in the UK for Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Students
Dentistry is a highly respected and rewarding profession, blending science, art, and healthcare to help individuals maintain oral health and overall well-being. In the United Kingdom, dental education is rigorous and well-structured, aimed at preparing students for careers as dental practitioners, specialists, researchers, and educators. While the term Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) is primarily used in countries like the United States and Canada, the UK offers an equivalent qualification known as the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), which is recognized globally and leads to registration with the General Dental Council (GDC), allowing graduates to practise as dentists in the UK and many other countries.
Here are the top 5 universities in the UK for students aspiring to become professional dentists through a BDS or equivalent dental surgery program.
1. King’s College London – Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences
Location: London, England
Program: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
King’s College London (KCL) consistently ranks as the best dental school in the UK and one of the top globally. Its five-year BDS program combines cutting-edge research, comprehensive theoretical education, and hands-on clinical training.
Students benefit from placements in some of London’s most prestigious teaching hospitals, including Guy’s, King’s College, and St. Thomas’ Hospitals. KCL places a strong emphasis on early clinical exposure, interprofessional learning, and patient-centered care. The curriculum integrates the latest technological and scientific advances in dentistry, preparing graduates for a wide range of dental careers or postgraduate specializations.
2. University of Birmingham – School of Dentistry
Location: Birmingham, England
Program: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
The University of Birmingham is home to one of the UK’s most respected dental schools. The BDS course is a five-year, full-time program offering comprehensive education in dental science, clinical practice, and patient care.
A distinctive feature of Birmingham’s program is the state-of-the-art Dental Hospital and School of Dentistry, which combines education, research, and treatment under one roof. This provides students with excellent clinical exposure and training throughout their course. The university’s strong emphasis on scientific research and evidence-based practice ensures that graduates are not only competent practitioners but also critical thinkers and problem-solvers.
3. University of Manchester – School of Medical Sciences (Dentistry Division)
Location: Manchester, England
Program: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
The University of Manchester offers a highly regarded five-year BDS degree that focuses on developing a deep understanding of oral diseases and treatments, as well as advanced clinical skills.
Manchester’s dental school is one of the largest in the UK and boasts a reputation for innovation and excellence in teaching and research. Clinical training starts early, and students get to work in diverse clinical settings across the region. The school also provides opportunities for intercalation, where students can pursue an additional degree in fields like biomedical sciences or public health, enriching their overall expertise.
4. University of Glasgow – Dental School
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Program: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
The University of Glasgow has a long-standing reputation for excellence in dental education. Its five-year BDS program is well-structured, combining fundamental science with clinical practice in a modern learning environment.
Glasgow’s dental hospital and school are integrated, offering students a wide variety of clinical experiences. The university also places a strong focus on patient communication skills, professionalism, and ethics—essential qualities in today’s healthcare environment. Graduates from Glasgow are known for their competence, compassion, and readiness to enter dental practice or pursue postgraduate studies.
5. Queen Mary University of London – Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry
Location: London, England
Program: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
Queen Mary’s BDS program, taught at the historic Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, is one of the most competitive in the UK. The curriculum is designed to develop a well-rounded dentist with strong scientific knowledge, technical expertise, and clinical confidence.
Students benefit from training in both community-based settings and the Royal London Dental Hospital, one of the largest in the country. With a focus on early patient contact, modern facilities, and research-informed teaching, Queen Mary provides an outstanding platform for future dental professionals.
Final Thoughts
While the UK doesn’t offer a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in name, the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) offered by these top universities is globally equivalent and fully accredited by the General Dental Council. Students graduating from these programs are qualified to practise in the UK and in many other countries after meeting local licensure requirements.
These five universities stand out for their academic excellence, modern clinical training facilities, patient-focused teaching, and international recognition. Whether you’re a UK resident or an international student aspiring to pursue a career in dentistry, these institutions provide an outstanding education and the perfect foundation for a successful dental career.