Your Everything Guide to Dentistry
Duration
0 - 5 years
Average Salary
MYR 3,000 - 4,000
Average Fees
MYR 70,000 - 600,000
Job Demand
Want to know more? Find out everything you need to know about studying Dentistry in Malaysia.
You’re the right fit for this course if you:
Are dedicated to healthcare
Have strong dexterity
Seek to learn and grow
#1 Basics of Dentistry
a) What is Dentistry?
Dentistry focuses on diagnosing, preventing and treating oral diseases and conditions. It encompasses various specialities, including orthodontics, periodontics and oral surgery.
b) Dentistry Paths to Shape Your Career
General Dentistry
Orthodontics
Periodontics
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| General Dentistry | Provide comprehensive oral care to patients of all ages |
| Orthodontics | Specialise in correcting teeth and jaw alignment issues |
| Periodontics | Focus on the prevention and treatment of gum diseases |
| Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Perform surgical procedures related to the mouth, jaw and face |
c) AI’s Role in Dentistry
Will AI Replace Me?
- No, AI Won’t Replace You - It Will Empower You:
AI enhances diagnostic accuracy and streamlines administrative tasks, allowing dentists to focus more on patient care. - How You and AI Can Work Together:
Utilise AI-powered tools for early detection of oral diseases and personalised treatment plans, improving patient outcomes. - Future-Proofing Your Career:
Embracing AI technologies keeps you at the forefront of dental innovations, ensuring your skills remain relevant in a rapidly evolving field.
#2 Navigating Your Academic Journey
a) Entry Requirements & Qualifications
| Pathway | Requirements | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-university | SPM, ideally with credits in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and English | Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Surgery, including academic coursework and clinical training. Graduates are required to register with the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC) and complete compulsory service. |
| Degree | Completed Pre-University/Foundation with a minimum CGPA in relevant subjects | Register with the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC). Complete a mandatory 2-year housemanship or compulsory service in government dental clinics or hospitals. Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, Phd. |
| Post-graduate | Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Surgery with relevant experience | Pursue subspecialties, engage in academia and research, take on leadership roles or explore international opportunities in high-demand regions. |
b) What Will You Study in Dentistry?
You’ll focus on core subjects to build a strong foundation. These subjects include:
Anatomy
Physiology
Biochemistry
Dental Materials
c) Key Skills for Dentistry
Here are some key skills that will help you succeed in a Dentistry course:
Don’t worry if you’re still developing these skills — a Dentistry degree will help you build them along the way!
Just be prepared for the journey ahead.
#3 Career Options For You
a) Top Career Paths
Once you’ve completed your degree, a variety of career paths open up to you, including:
General Dentist
Orthodontist
Periodontist
Oral Surgeon
Industry Insights
Dentistry offers a fulfilling career filled with opportunities for specialisation and professional advancement.
b) Top Recruiters in Malaysia
Curious about where a career in Dentistry could take you? Discover some of the top recruiters in Malaysia:
Government Dental Clinics
Private Dental Practices
Dental Departments in Hospitals
Academic Institutions
#4 Other Courses
Don’t think Dentistry is for you? Check out these courses in Malaysia and find out the perfect path for your future in Medicine, Health & Sciences!
FAQ's
What are the entry requirements for dentistry programmes in Malaysia?
To pursue a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in Malaysia, applicants must meet specific academic and language proficiency requirements. Below is a detailed overview:
1. Academic Qualifications:
A-Levels/STPM:
Achieve grades of BBB, ABC, or AAC in three subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
Australian Matriculation (SAM/SACE International):
Attain a minimum Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 80, including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
Canadian Pre-University (CPU):
Secure an average of 80% in three subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
Foundation in Science or Matriculation Programme:
Maintain a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0 in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
Unified Examination Certificate (UEC):
Obtain grade B4 in five subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Advanced Mathematics.
Diploma in Health Sciences:
Complete a minimum 2.5-year (5 semesters) diploma with a CGPA of 3.0, including at least two Bs in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, and credits in English and Mathematics at SPM/O-Level or equivalent.
2. Secondary Education (SPM/O-Level):
Achieve 5 Bs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics (or Additional Mathematics), and one other subject.
3. English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0.
MUET: Band 4.
TOEFL: Minimum score of 550.
4. Additional Requirements:
Health Status: Applicants must be free from serious physical or mental illnesses and communicable diseases that could impede dental practice.
Aptitude Assessment: Some universities may require an aptitude test, interview, or entrance examination as part of the selection process.
How long does it take to complete a dentistry degree in Malaysia?
A Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) typically requires five years of study, encompassing both pre-clinical and clinical training.
What career opportunities are available with a dentistry degree from Malaysia?
Graduates can work in government hospitals, private dental clinics, community health centres, or academic institutions. The demand for dental services is expected to grow, offering a stable career path.
Which universities in Malaysia offer recognised dentistry programmes?
Several institutions offer accredited dentistry programmes, including:
- University of Malaya (UM)
- International Medical University (IMU)
- International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)
- MAHSA University
- Penang International Dental College (PIDC)
It's essential to ensure that the chosen programme is recognised by the Malaysian Dental Council.
What are the pathways to specialise in a particular field of dentistry?
After obtaining a basic dental degree, dentists can pursue specialisation through postgraduate programmes, which typically require an additional three years of study in fields such as orthodontics, periodontology, or paediatric dentistry.
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