Overseas-trained dentists face hurdles while millions lack NHS dental care

In the UK, thousands of overseas-trained dentists are facing significant obstacles in securing licenses to practice, leading to a dire shortage of dental care. As of 2023-24, nearly 2,749 dental vacancies exist, while 4.5 million patients cannot access NHS dental services. These dentists, particularly from countries like India and Egypt, struggle notably with the Overseas Registration Exam, which is restricted to only 600 candidates per sitting, resulting in long waits of months or even years to achieve registration. This bureaucratic bottleneck has forced many qualified dentists to work in unskilled roles, including fast food restaurants, illustrating a troubling waste of their skills and a disservice to patients in need of dental care. Reports from the Association of Dental Groups highlight the frustrations faced by these professionals, who often have extensive experience yet cannot find an avenue to practice in the UK due to a registration system that many consider inefficient and outdated. They express disappointment over an inability to register for the exams despite multiple attempts, as exam slots are often taken within seconds of opening. With patients resorting to DIY dentistry due to the lack of appointments, the situation continues to exacerbate, prompting calls for urgent reforms to allow qualified overseas dentists to fulfill their potential and address the significant pressing needs of the UK dental health system.