Misconceptions: Some think that the course is entirely practical.

Typical grades needed:

GCSE: Five or six subjects grade A/B including mathematics and English. Some institutions want six A grades

A –level: AAB – ABB: chem/biol + 1 other subject – check with the institution you want to apply to. Some institutions may still require all sciences.

UCAS advice

a) You have four choices that must be submitted by 15 th October. Applicants may add up to two alternative non-Dentistry courses. However if they receive offers for these courses and are rejected for Dentistry, they will not be considered in Clearing should they perform better than expected in the examinations.

b) They need to show evidence of manual dexterity, work experience and awareness of problems experienced by dentists. Evidence of paid or voluntary employment in any field, preferably dealing with people in an environment widely removed from your home.

c) Details must be provided of discussions with dentists and work-shadowing in dental surgeries. Discuss any specialised fields of dentistry you might be interested in.

d) Evidence of high and potential achievement; a caring and committed attitude towards people; an understanding of the demands of the dental training and practice; the ability to communicate effectively; a willingness to accept responsibility.

Interview advice:

Work-shadowing in a dental surgery is essential and as a result questions will be asked about your reactions to the work and your understanding of the different types of treatments which a dentist can offer.

Questions asked :

• What is conservative dentistry?
• What does integrity mean?
• Do you think the first year syllabus is a good one?
• What are the qualities required to be a good dentist?
• What are prosthetics, periodontics, orthodontics?
• What causes tooth decay?

The interview assesses personality, verbal and communication skills and knowledge of dentistry.

Reasons for rejection:

• Lack of firm commitment to dentistry.
• Lack of breadth of interest.
• Lack of motivation for a health care profession.
• Poor English.
• Poor communication.
• More interested in running a business and making money than caring for people