Top 5 Countries for Dentists: Where Your Career Can Thrive Globally

Written by

Aqsa Ahmed

Reviewed by

Dr. Sonal
Top 5 Countries for Dentists
Created On : Aug 28, 2024 Updated On : Jul 21, 2025 3 min read

Key Takeaways

  • A breakdown of the top 5 countries where dentists can work in 2025
  • Average annual salaries for dentists in each country
  • Licensing exams and steps required to practise legally abroad

Thousands of dentists every year explore global opportunities. This is not just for higher pay, but also for a better quality of life, career advancement, and sometimes, just a new adventure. But with so many options, there is a question- where should you go?

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top 5 countries for dentists in 2025, with real salary figures, licensing exam details, and why each destination could be your next big move.

Top 5 Countries for Dentists in 2025

CountryAverage Annual SalaryApprox. in INR (₹)Licensing ExamPR Opportunities
USAUSD 100,000₹83,00,000Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE)Yes
CanadaCAD 100,000₹61,00,000National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) examYes
AustraliaAUD 90,000₹50,00,000Australian Dental Council (ADC) examYes
United KingdomGBP 120,000₹1,27,00,000Overseas Registration ExamYes
UAEAED 120,000₹27,00,000DHA for Dubai, DOH for Abu Dhabi, MOH for other emiratesLimited

Which Country is Best for You?

Your GoalBest Country
Earn the highest possible incomeUK / USA
Start practising quicklyUAE
Settle abroad with family (PR route)Canada / Australia
Work in English-speaking countryAll except minor Arabic use in UAE
Prefer low licensing barriersUAE
Open to doing a 2-year degree abroadUSA

1. United States

The US continues to be one of the most popular countries for dentists looking to work abroad. And yes, the salaries are a big reason why. Dentists in the US earn around USD 100,000 a year on average that’s like ₹83,00,000, while specialists like oral and maxillofacial surgeons can earn up to USD 468,000.

But the process isn’t quick or simple. International dentists need to pass the INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination), and most universities require you to complete a 2-year Advanced Standing Program before you’re eligible for licensure. It takes time, effort, and money but if your goal is long-term growth, the US is worth considering.

2. Canada

Canada has become a solid option for dentists who want stable income, clear PR pathways, and a supportive healthcare system. The average annual salary is around CAD 100,000 which comes to around ₹61,00,000 approximately, and the demand for dentists has been growing steadily.

To practise in Canada, internationally trained dentists need to go through the NDEB. Once you clear this, your life will be set.

3. Australia

Australia is another one of the best countries for dentists. This is a place where dentists are valued a lot and dentists get to have a proper work-life balance. Dentists here earn about AUD 90,000 per year, that’s like ₹50,00,000!! The opportunities are available both in major cities and regional areas.

To start practising, you’ll need to clear the Australian Dental Council (ADC) exams. It has a written exam followed by a practical (clinical) exam. Once you’re done with that, you can register with AHPRA and begin working.

Note: If you need help preparing for licensing exams, you should enroll in the best Preparation Course. For example, Academically’s ADC Preparation Course offers live and recorded lectures, study materials, practice questions, AI-based mock tests, personalised guidance and much. All this to make you pass on the first attempt. What are you waiting for?

4. United Kingdom

The UK has seen increasing demand for dentists in recent years, especially in NHS and mixed practices. Average salaries are around GBP 120,000 annually which comes to around ₹1,27,00,000, and there is a steady demand for dentists too.

To get licensed, you’ll need to pass the Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) conducted by the General Dental Council (GDC). Once registered, you can start applying for positions.

5. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

If you’re looking for a quicker start and better take-home pay, the UAE is worth considering. Dentists in the UAE start with salaries around AED 120,000. It is almost like ₹27,00,000, and because there’s no income tax, what you earn is what you keep.

The licensing process is straightforward, you’ll need to clear an exam depending on the emirate you choose:

  • DHA for Dubai
  • DOH for Abu Dhabi
  • MOH for other emirates

Once you’re licensed and have your eligibility letter, you can apply for jobs and begin the visa process. Many Indian dentists prefer the UAE because of quick process and no english proficiency exams.

Pros and Cons of Each Country for Dentists

CountryProsChallenges
USAHighest pay, advanced tech, specialisation optionsCompetitive, expensive, time-consuming
CanadaPR friendly, growing dental demandMulti-step exam process, slower licensing
AustraliaClear pathway, relaxed lifestylePractical exam can be tough
UKHigh salary, NHS/private balanceORE dates can be limited, visa delays
UAEFast licensing, tax-free incomeNo PR pathway, private job dependent

Final Thoughts

The demand for dentists is high in many countries. But choosing the best one to move is very important. Because when you move to a new country, there are a lot of things to consider, like licensing exams, visa process, work culture, and many more

So, take your time and choose the one that fits your needs. If you are confused about what to choose and which one will be best for you, talk to our experts at Academically who will help you create path for you.

 

FAQs

Q. Which country is best for dentists in 2025?

A. In 2025, the UK, USA, and Canada are among the top countries for dentists. This is based on salary, career growth, and immigration opportunities.

Q. Can Indian dentists practice abroad?

A. Yes. Indian dentists can practice abroad. But most countries require you to clear licensing exams (like INBDE, NDEB, ORE, ADC).

Q. Which country has the easiest licensing exam for dentists?

A. Licensing exams in UAE like DHA, DOH or MOH are considered to have one of the quickest and most straightforward licensing processes.

Q. Do I need to repeat my dental degree abroad?

A. In countries like the USA, you need to complete a 2-year Advanced Standing Program. In others like Canada and Australia, you can take equivalency exams without repeating your degree.

Q. Can I get PR after working as a dentist abroad?

A. Yes. You can get permanent residency (PR) in countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK.

Aqsa Ahmed
Aqsa Ahmed
about the author

Aqsa Ahmed is an aspiring medical writer with a strong passion for communicating healthcare topics to non-medical audiences. Motivated by a love for contemporary literature, she believes in using literature to increase awareness about complex medical topics and diagnostic procedures in an attempt to eliminate prejudice surrounding medical science and improve public health understanding.

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