Becoming a dentist in Europe is a rewarding and challenging journey that requires dedication, education, and practical training. Dentists play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and ensuring the overall well-being of patients. If you aspire to pursue a career in dentistry in Europe, it’s essential to understand the educational requirements, licensing procedures, and the path to success. This article will guide you through the steps to become a dentist in Europe and shed light on the various aspects of this profession.
For those who are keen to work in the healthcare sector, Lenstore has researched the average salaries per country for a number of healthcare roles.
From doctors to midwives to radiologists, this list shares how much you can expect to earn in each role.
These Are The Countries Paying The Highest Salaries For Dentists
| Rank | Country | Dentist Yearly Salary (£) |
| 1 | United States | £179,267 |
| 2 | Belgium | £149,773 |
| 3 | Denmark | £146,021 |
| 4 | Norway | £126,460 |
| 5 | Netherlands | £123,116 |
| 6 | Finland | £118,692 |
| 7 | Iceland | £114,129 |
| 8 | Japan | £112,111 |
| 9 | France | £106,823 |
| 10 | Italy | £95,879 |
Which Countries Pay The Highest Salaries For Healthcare Roles?
| Country | Optometrist Yearly Salary (£) | Dentist Yearly Salary (£) | Doctor Yearly Salary (£) | Midwife Yearly Salary (£) | Neurologist Yearly Salary (£) | Chiropractor Yearly Salary (£) | Radiologist Yearly Salary (£) |
| United States | £95,768 | £179,267 | £153,476 | £83,879 | £195,461 | £45,720 | £315,819 |
| Norway | £95,177 | £126,460 | £123,042 | £50,071 | £184,422 | £77,837 | £271,590 |
| Belgium | £54,598 | £149,773 | £151,599 | £85,646 | £166,647 | £73,726 | £159,986 |
| Japan | £98,252 | £112,111 | £104,878 | £43,904 | £205,616 | £73,740 | £302,787 |
| Iceland | £83,203 | £114,129 | £116,532 | £65,409 | £174,058 | £65,009 | £256,334 |
| Finland | £56,958 | £118,692 | £144,704 | £45,194 | £116,020 | £70,160 | £166,924 |
| Denmark | £97,066 | £146,021 | £89,330 | £91,113 | £190,530 | £93,724 | £179,152 |
| Italy | £67,203 | £95,879 | £94,052 | £61,585 | £140,612 | £59,435 | £135,119 |
| Portugal | £42,489 | £71,111 | £62,723 | £28,262 | £88,910 | £34,000 | £130,923 |
| Netherlands | £76,332 | £123,116 | £123,116 | £74,802 | £159,716 | £84,847 | £235,204 |
The US has an average salary of £95,768 for an optometrist, £153,476 for a doctor and £308,573 for a radiologist.
If Europe is a destination that you’re willing to explore as well as move to for a career, look no further than Norway. Norway offers high average salaries for its healthcare roles, with dentists earning £126,460 and chiropractors earning £77,837.
Educational Requirements
- Undergraduate Education: The path to becoming a dentist in Europe typically starts with an undergraduate degree in a relevant field, such as biology, chemistry, or pre-dentistry. It’s essential to maintain a strong academic record during your undergraduate studies as this will be a crucial factor in your dental school application.
- Dental School: After completing your bachelor’s degree, the next step is to gain admission to a dental school in Europe. Dental programs are usually five to six years long and include both theoretical coursework and clinical training. Some popular dental schools in Europe include King’s College London, the University of Gothenburg, and the University of Munich.
- Licensing Examinations: Once you graduate from dental school, you’ll need to pass national licensing examinations in the country where you wish to practice. The specific requirements for these exams can vary between European countries. Be sure to research and understand the licensing process for your desired destination.
Dentist Jobs in Europe
After completing your education and obtaining the necessary licenses, you can explore a range of job opportunities as a dentist in Europe. Dentists can choose to work in various settings, including:
- Private Practices: Many dentists in Europe run their own private practices, providing a wide range of dental services to patients. This path offers autonomy and the opportunity to build a loyal patient base.
- Public Healthcare Institutions: Dentists can also work in government-funded healthcare institutions, where they provide dental care to a broader population. These positions are often stable and come with benefits.
- Academic and Research Roles: Some dentists opt for careers in academia, teaching and conducting research in dental schools or universities. These roles contribute to the advancement of dental science.
- Specialized Dentistry: Dentists can pursue further specialization in fields like orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry. These specialized roles often come with higher earning potential.
Dental Hygienist Salary in Europe
Dental hygienists are an essential part of the dental team, working alongside dentists to provide preventive dental care to patients. The salary of a dental hygienist in Europe can vary based on several factors, including experience, location, and type of practice. On average, dental hygienists in Europe can expect a competitive salary, which is often higher in more affluent countries.
The salary of a dental hygienist in Europe typically ranges from €25,000 to €50,000 per year, depending on the country. Countries in Western Europe, such as Germany and the Netherlands, tend to offer higher salaries, while those in Eastern Europe may have lower pay scales.
Average Doctor Salary in Europe
Medical doctors, including dentists, are among the highest-paid professionals in Europe. The average doctor salary in Europe varies significantly from one country to another due to differences in healthcare systems, living costs, and demand for healthcare services. Here’s an overview of the average doctor salaries in a few European countries:
- Germany: In Germany, doctors, including dentists, can earn an average annual salary of around €80,000 to €120,000.
- United Kingdom: The average salary for dentists in the UK is around £50,000 to £90,000 per year.
- France: French dentists typically earn an annual salary ranging from €60,000 to €100,000, depending on their experience and location.
- Sweden: In Sweden, dentists can expect to earn between SEK 600,000 to SEK 800,000 per year.
- Spain: Dentists in Spain have an average annual income of €40,000 to €70,000.
It’s important to note that these figures are approximate, and individual salaries may vary based on factors such as specialization, experience, and location within each country.
Orthodontist Salary in Europe
Orthodontists are dental specialists who focus on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, which often involves using braces and other orthodontic appliances. These specialists typically earn higher salaries than general dentists due to their advanced training and specialization.
The salary of an orthodontist in Europe can vary significantly based on location, experience, and demand for their services. On average, orthodontists in Europe can expect an annual salary ranging from €60,000 to €150,000 or more.
Countries with higher living costs, such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and Scandinavia, generally offer higher salaries for orthodontists. The demand for orthodontic services also influences earning potential, with urban areas often providing more opportunities for specialized dental practitioners.
In conclusion, becoming a dentist in Europe is a well-respected and financially rewarding career path. However, it requires years of education, training, and dedication. Whether you’re interested in becoming a general dentist or a specialized orthodontist, the European dental field offers a range of opportunities to suit your interests and aspirations. Be sure to research the specific requirements and salaries in the country where you plan to practice, and always stay up-to-date with the latest developments in dental science and technology to excel in this dynamic field.
