How to Become a Dentist in New Zealand
Aspiring dentists in New Zealand have the opportunity to study at a range of universities, colleges, and training organisations to become a qualified dental professional. Being a qualified dentist requires a high level of medical and technical knowledge and requires dedication and strong commitment to succeed in the profession. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what you need to know to become a dentist in New Zealand.
What Qualifications Do I Need?
Becoming a qualified dentist in New Zealand requires a five-year full-time Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree, which is offered mainly by the University of Otago and University of Auckland. The University of Otago also offers a seven-year Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS) programme for those who wish to pursue a more specialised role in dentistry.
In addition to the university-level qualifications, applicants may need to complete additional coursework from an accredited dental hygienist school or registrar school. Those who later wish to further specialise in certain areas, such as prosthodontics, endodontics, pediatrics, or orthodontics, may need to undertake further postgraduate study.
Experiences and Skills Needed
As well as formal qualifications, dentists in New Zealand need to have excellent communication, interpersonal, problem-solving and organisational skills. The ability to empathise with patients is also a key attribute, and aspiring dentists should be confident and comfortable in dealing with a range of patient needs.
It is also important to have professional work experience, either through an internship or more informal arrangements. This work experience will enable aspiring dentists to gain exposure to the different aspects of dentistry, develop relevant skills, and build connections in the dental world.
Job and Career Prospects
As a qualified dentist in New Zealand, you can expect to find a range of employment opportunities, including roles at private practice, public health service providers, community health support organisations, and even in research.
You can also expect to work in a competitive environment with experienced dentists. Salaries for dentists in New Zealand can vary depending on the role, experience, and location, and the average wage is around NZ$75,000–NZ$90,000 per year.
Registration and Membership
In order to legally practice, dentists in New Zealand must be registered with the Dental Council of New Zealand, which is the governing body responsible for the registration and regulation of dentists in the country. In order to be approved for registration, dentists must have the appropriate qualifications, complete the Dental Council’s registration process, and meet the Council’s annual professional development requirements.
In addition, dentists in New Zealand must be members of the New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA), which provides advice and support to dentists, advocates on behalf of the profession, and promotes the highest standards of care for its members.
Steps to Becoming a Dentist
Becoming a dentist in New Zealand requires a commitment to learning and development throughout one’s career. The steps to becoming a qualified dentist in New Zealand are outlined below:
- Complete a five-year full-time Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from a recognised university in New Zealand.
- Complete additional coursework from an accredited dental hygienist school or registrar school.
- Gain work experience either through an internship or more informal arrangements.
- Register with the Dental Council of New Zealand.
- Join the New Zealand Dental Association as a member.
- Continuously develop and update your skills and knowledge.
With the right qualifications, skills, and commitment, you can become a qualified dentist in New Zealand, offering quality care to those who need it.
Fees and Costs Involved
The cost of becoming a qualified dentist in New Zealand varies, depending on the type of qualifications, courses, and work experience undertaken. To complete a five-year BDS degree, tuition fees alone can range from NZ$25,000–NZ$45,000, and additional fees for coursework, textbooks, and supplies may also need to be taken into account.
For those who undertake additional postgraduate study, costs such as course fees and living costs need to be taken into account. It is important to research the costs involved before committing to a particular course or qualification.
How to Find a Job in Dentistry
Once you have obtained the necessary qualifications and become a registered dentist in New Zealand, you will need to consider which type of job is right for you. There are a number of options for those looking for a job in dentistry, such as public and private practice, research institutions, or even teaching.
The New Zealand Dental Association provides job listings for qualified members, and there are also dedicated job sites such as DentalJobsNZ.com that list current job opportunities in dentistry in New Zealand. Searching online and attending networking events are also great ways to find a job in dentistry.
Conclusion
Becoming a qualified dentist in New Zealand requires dedication and commitment, but it can be a rewarding and satisfying career choice. With the right qualifications, skills, and experience, you can offer quality care to those who need it, and build a successful career in dentistry.
