ORE - IDA COURSES

Smile Dental Academy is proud to collaborate with the Indian Dental Association to bring world-class Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) courses to India, starting in Mumbai. This exciting partnership combines global expertise with local insight, offering dental professionals in India access to advanced, hands-on training led by internationally recognised educators. Our mission is to empower dentists with the skills and confidence to deliver exceptional patient care and stay at the forefront of modern dentistry.

IDA represents more than 75,000 dental professionals and has 33 state branches and 450 local branches. Through its initiatives and campaigns, IDA reaches out to dental students, dental professionals, educators and the public to safeguard and promote optimal oral healthcare in the country.

Overseas Registration Exam

Dentists with qualifications that are not acknowledged for UK registration may apply to take the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE). Once you have successfully completed the ORE, you can apply for registration. This registration permits dentists to practice in the UK. The ORE evaluates the knowledge and skills of internationally qualified dentists and consists of two components.

  • Part 1 aims to evaluate candidates' application of knowledge in clinical settings. It includes two computer-based examination papers:

    Paper A focuses on clinically applied dental science and clinically applied human disease, while Paper B addresses elements of clinical dentistry such as law and ethics and health and safety.

    All questions align with the learning outcomes specified in the GDC Preparing for Practice document.

    Each paper is three hours long and consists of multiple short answer questions, which include extended matching questions and single best answer questions.

    Candidates are required to demonstrate competence, knowledge, and familiarity with various aspects of dentistry as outlined in the learning outcomes of the Preparing for Practice document. Passing both papers is necessary to move on to Part 2.

  • The Overseas Registration Examination (ORE) Part 2 assesses candidates on their practical clinical skills.

    Every question in Part 2 aligns with the learning outcomes expected of UK dentists, detailed in Preparing for Practice. Candidates are permitted up to four attempts for the ORE Part 2.

    Each Part 2 sitting accommodates a maximum of 144 candidates. The fee for each sitting of Part 2 is £4,235, which must be paid at the time of booking.

For many dentists, the ORE represents a crucial gateway to fulfilling their dream of building a successful dental career in the UK. It offers the opportunity to work in a world-class healthcare system, access advanced clinical training, and enjoy the professional and personal benefits of life in the UK.

Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced practitioner, the ORE allows you to prove your clinical skills and knowledge meet UK standards. Passing the ORE opens doors to NHS and private practice roles, specialist training, and long-term career growth in British dentistry.

Career as a Dentist in the United Kingdom (UK)

Full Pathway

  • GDC ORE Registration

    We support you through the entire GDC registration journey. From verifying documents and guiding your application, to preparing you for ORE Part 1 and 2, we’re with you every step of the way. Whether you're in India or abroad, we help you clear the pathway to becoming a fully registered dentist in the UK.

  • ORE Part 1 & ORE Part 2 Training

    We offer comprehensive ORE preparation courses tailored to support international dentists. Part 1 is delivered online, focusing on theory and clinical knowledge, while Part 2 is a face-to-face intensive training programme held in Mumbai, providing hands-on guidance to help you pass with confidence.

  • Recruitment as a Dentist in the UK

    Through our Smile DSO network of over 1,200 dental practices across the UK, we provide recruitment support for qualified dentists seeking to work in the UK. We assist with job placement, training, and relocation, helping you take the next step in your dental career.

GDC ORE Registration

We support you through the entire GDC registration journey. From verifying documents and guiding your application, to preparing you for ORE Part 1 and 2, we’re with you every step of the way. Whether you're in India or abroad, we help you clear the pathway to becoming a fully registered dentist in the UK.

The General Dental Council (GDC) states to book a place on the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE) you first need to submit an application. You will be added to the ORE candidate list when you successfully complete the process.

Please review the requirements from the GDC.

    • You must hold a primary dental qualification from a dental school outside the UK.

    • The degree must be comparable to a UK dental qualification.

    • You’ll need to provide a Statement of Comparability from UK ENIC (formerly NARIC).

    • You must have at least 1,600 hours of clinical experience treating patients, completed during or after your qualification.

    • Observational or simulated experience does not count.

    • This experience must be supported by signed documents and a reference from a supervising clinician.

  • You must prove your English language ability through one of the following:

    • IELTS (Academic version): minimum overall score of 7.0, with no less than 6.5 in any component.

    • Proof of dental study in English (if applicable) may also be considered in some cases.

    • You must submit a recent character reference from a dentist or professional not related to you.

    • The referee must confirm your professional conduct and vouch for your character.

    • Must be issued by the dental council or licensing authority in the country where you are currently or were recently registered.

    • Must be dated within the last 3 months.

  • You need to submit a certified copy of your passport, including photo and signature pages.

  • One recent, signed passport-size photo (signed by your referee).

  • You must pay a £96 application processing fee to the GDC before submitting your application.

ORE Part 1

  • UK Tutors - Former ORE Examiners

  • 100% Online

  • Competitive Pricing

  • Whatsapp Support

  • GDC Registration Support

ORE Part 1 Course

  • Prepare for the GDC’s ORE Part 1 exam with our structured online course. Designed for overseas dentists, it covers all key topics with expert guidance to help you succeed.

  • The course is 100% online.

    10 live sessions (2 hours each) over 6 weeks with interactive webinars, MCQ review, exam strategies. Includes session recordings, revision material, mock-style assessments

    CPD hours and completion certificate.

  • ● Anatomy

    ● Physiology

    ● Orthodontics

    ● Pathology

    ● Pharmacology & Therapeutics

    ● Oral Surgery

    ● Medicine & Oral Medicine

    ● Radiology

    ● Restorative Dentistry

    ● Paediatric Dentistry

    ● Embryology

    ● Medical Emergencies & LBS

    ● Pain, Anaesthesia, Sedation

    ● Histology

    ● Statistics

    ● Periodontology

    ● Dental Materials

    ● Infection Control

    ● Law and ethics in the UK

    ● Preventive Dentistry

  • Complete the course in 10 weeks. You’ll have access to all materials for till you successfully pass.

  • Course fee: INR ₹95000
    Includes GST (18%)

ORE Part 2

  • UK Tutors - Former ORE Examiners

  • In Home Country

  • Competitive Pricing

  • 2 Mocks in UK

  • Online Session Recordings

ORE Part 2 Course

  • Our ORE Part 2 training programme is designed for overseas-qualified dentists preparing for the practical exam. This hands-on course focuses on key clinical stations, delivered by experienced UK-qualified tutors to help you pass with confidence. The course is an exact replica of the ORE Part 2 examination.

    • 3 Days Manikin Skills Training (Mumbai)

    • 1 Day OSCE & Medical Emergencies (Mumbai)

    • 4 Days OSCE, Treatment Planning, and Emergency Training (Online)

    • 2 Days Mock Exams prior to exam (UK)

  • In Person - Mumbai, India

    Day 1:

    • Safe practice.

    • Exam expectations Operating positions Examiners expectations and guidelines

    • Amalgam Class I and Class II cavity preparations Amalgam restoration

    • Composite Class III cavity preparation

    • Composite Class IV tooth preparation and restoration Composite class V cavity preparation and restoration

    Day 2:

    • Labial Veneer tooth preparation Anterior Metal Ceramic Crown preparation Full Gold Crown preparation Posterior Metal Ceramic Crown Preparation

    Day 3:

    • Impression Taking for Definitive Crown

    • Temporary Crown Preparation

    • Rest Seat Preparation

    • Root Canal Treatment

    • Composite Cusp Build Up

    Day 4:

    • CPR on Adult and Child demonstrated on manikins.

    • Demonstration and hand on practise of BLS and AED.

    • Use of ME drugs and equipment.

  • Day 1: Skilled OSCEs - Online

    This day is focused towards Skilled OSCE stations which are a part of the OSCE exam. This day will start with a briefing on how the exam is conducted. 

    You will be given guidance on the exam approach for each station as well as effective time management - a crucial part of passing your exam. We will also offer support in understanding which points to keep in mind, with a focus on understanding exam criteria which will be explained for each station. 

    The day consists of: 

    ● Lectures

    ● Demonstrations

    ● Topics covered include:

    ● Dental Charting

    ● Dental Surveyor

    ● Hand Washing

    ● Instrument Identification

    ● IOTN

    ● Intra-Oral X-Ray arrangement

    ● RPD designing

    ● Rubber Dam Application

    ● Splinting (Avulsed tooth)

    ● Suturing

    ● Waste Disposal

    ● X-ray Holders

    ● New OSCES

    Day 2: Actor & Written OSCEs - Online

    This day will start with a briefing on how the exam is conducted.

    You will be given guidance on exam approach appropriate to each station as well as effective time management - which is key to passing the exam. 

    You will also be given guidance on communication skills (extra classes in communication skills are also available) as well as the points to keep in mind, with a focus on exam criteria explained for each station. 

    Day 3: Dental Treatment Planning - Online

    This section of the course will explain how the exam is conducted. Lectures will explain how to approach the exam with guidance on completing exam forms with effective time management. 

    Guidance on:

    ● Oral History

    ● Provisional diagnosis, special investigations, radiographic request

    ● Radiographic report writing

    ● Contemporaneous notes

    ● Written treatment plan

    ● Oral treatment plan

    Day 4 : Medical Emergencies - Online

    This day is focused on Medical Emergencies in Dental Practice. Relevant updates will also be included if applicable.

    ● Lectures explaining relevant exam topics.

    ● Explanation of structured scenarios.


    Topics of discussion include:

    ● Adrenal Insufficiency

    ● Asthma

    ● Anaphylaxis

    ● Angina and Myocardial Infarction

    ● Basic Life Support

    ● Choking

    ● Epilepsy

    ● Hypoglycaemia

    ● Hyperventilation

    ● Needle stick injury

    ● Syncope

  • Our intensive 2-day mock and revision course in the UK, designed to simulate real ORE Part 2 exam conditions. You’ll practise all key stations, receive personalised feedback, and build confidence ahead of your exam. Ideal for candidates 4–8 weeks before their test date.

    Day 1: Manikin Mocks/ Revision

    Day 2: OSCE, Treatment Planning & Medical Emergencies Mock

  • Course fee: INR ₹387000
    Includes GST (18%)

Work in the UK as a Dentist

  • Guaranteed Job Placement Across 1,200+ Clinics

    Our Smile DSO network will secure you a clinical role in one of our trusted NHS or mixed practices across the UK — giving you real patients, real experience, and real earnings from day one.

  • Salary starting £40,000

    Start a paid, mentored role upon completion of ORE Part 2, with the potential to earn £70k–£120k+ per year after completing year 1.

  • 5 Year Visa

    We provide full visa sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route, supporting you through every step of your UK relocation and compliance process.

  • Relocation Package worth up to £40,000

    We provide everything you need to settle confidently into life in the UK — including help finding accommodation, setting up a bank account, and navigating life as a new arrival. You’ll also receive a generous welcome bonus.

  • Mentorship & Training Pathway

    Work under the guidance of experienced UK dentists, with access to hands-on courses, CPD training, Diplomas and Masters Programmes and a clear route to private dentistry or even practice ownership.

Recruitment as a Dentist

  • Are you an overseas-qualified dentist looking to practise in the UK? We provide a structured recruitment pathway to help you secure a role and begin your dental career in the UK with confidence.

    From GDC registration and visa guidance to job matching and relocation support, we offer end-to-end assistance tailored to international dentists.

    Our goal is to ensure a smooth, supported transition into UK practice with long-term career growth.

  • Our Smile DSO (Dental Service Organisations) network gives you access to over 1,200 partner dental practices across the UK, including NHS, mixed, and private practices. These practices are actively recruiting and offer:

    • Mentorship and clinical supervision

    • Supportive, multicultural teams

    • Ongoing professional development opportunities

    • Competitive earnings and performance-based growth

    We match you with practices based on your clinical experience, preferred location, and career goals. Whether you're looking for a busy NHS practice or a private environment with cosmetic opportunities, our network offers flexibility and choice.

  • Once you’ve passed ORE Part 2 or hold a GDC-recognised qualification, you are eligible to apply for full registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) in the UK.

    We provide complete, step-by-step support throughout the registration process to ensure a smooth and timely application.

    Our support includes:

    • Guidance completing the GDC online application and portal submission

    • Preparation and verification of all required documents, including:

      • ORE Part 1 & 2 certificates (if applicable)

      • Primary dental qualification (notarised and apostilled)

      • Certificate(s) of Good Standing from dental councils

      • Health and character declaration

      • Valid passport and ID photo

    • English language requirements:

      • If you have passed ORE Part 2, your English language proficiency is considered met by the GDC.

      • If you are applying via a recognised overseas qualification, we help determine whether IELTS (minimum 7.0 in each section) or OET (Grade B in each section) is required, or whether you are eligible for an exemption (e.g. if you studied in English or practised in an English-speaking country).

    • Criminal record checks – assistance with UK DBS applications and required overseas police clearance

    • Arranging professional indemnity insurance, which is mandatory for registration

    Our goal is to help you submit a complete, compliant application, minimising delays and enabling you to start work as a UK-registered dentist as soon as possible.

  • We offer personalised placement support, ensuring your career starts with the right fit. Our process includes:

    • One-to-one consultation with our recruitment team

    • CV review and guidance to meet UK dental industry standards

    • Interview preparation and mock interviews

    • Matching with practices aligned to your skill set and preferences

    • Coordination of job offers, contracts, and onboarding timelines

    We also liaise directly with practices to ensure a smooth employment setup and offer post-placement support to help you succeed in your new role.

  • Relocation package worth up to £40,000. Moving to a new country can be daunting — we’re here to make it easier. We provide assistance with:

    • Visa sponsorship (Skilled Worker Visa, if required)

    • Finding accommodation near your practice

    • Understanding local transport, banking, and NHS systems

    • Induction and onboarding into UK dental practice protocols

    • Access to free CPD, compliance training, and hands-on workshops

    • Ongoing clinical mentorship to help you adapt to UK patient care and regulations

    You’ll feel supported both professionally and personally as you settle into life and work in the UK.

10 Step Pathway to Work as a Dentist in the UK

  • Timeframe: Day 0
    Cost: £941
    Get started with Smile Dental Academy’s 10-week ORE Part 1 course, which includes live online teaching, mock exams, revision materials, and full support for your GDC application – including document verification, English test guidance, and referee help.

  • Timeframe: Weeks 1–10
    Cost: £96 (GDC application fee)
    While completing your training, you’ll also finalise and submit your GDC application. This includes passport verification, degree certificates, good standing, IELTS, and more – all supported by our team.

  • Timeframe: Weeks 10–20
    Cost: —
    Wait for GDC to approve your application (can take up to 60 working days). Once approved, you’ll be notified when ORE Part 1 exam slots open and be guided through booking the next available date.

  • Timeframe: Weeks 20–24
    Cost: £584 (exam) + £1,100 (travel & accommodation)
    Fly to London for your first exam. You’ll usually stay for 5–7 days. Smile Dental Academy can assist with travel planning and accommodation guidance.

  • Timeframe: Weeks 25–30
    Cost: £3,831
    Once you’ve passed Part 1, you can immediately enrol in Smile Dental Academy’s Part 2 course, which includes manikin practice, OSCE preparation, and a full 2-day mock exam in London.

  • Timeframe: Weeks 30–50
    Cost: —
    Attend in-person and online training sessions with our expert tutors. You’ll build confidence in clinical tasks, communication stations, and mock scenarios used in the actual exam.

  • Timeframe: Weeks 50–60
    Cost: £4,235 (exam) + £1,200 (travel & accommodation)
    You’ll travel again to London for 7–10 days for your ORE Part 2 exam. Our UK mock training prepares you thoroughly for what to expect in both clinical and OSCE elements.

  • Timeframe: Weeks 60–70
    Cost: £621
    Once you’ve passed Part 2, you’re eligible to register with the General Dental Council. Pay your Annual Retention Fee and receive your GDC number – your UK dental licence!

  • Timeframe: Weeks 70–80
    Cost: £3,839 (visa + health surcharge)
    With Smile’s support, connect to 1,000+ UK dental practices. Once offered a job, apply for your Skilled Worker visa. The visa fee is £719, plus a £624/year NHS health surcharge for 5 years.

  • Timeframe: Month 18–24
    Cost: —
    Once your visa is approved, you can relocate to the UK and begin work as a fully registered, GDC-approved dentist – supported by Smile’s clinical onboarding and mentorship network.

FAQs

What is the ORE and who needs to take it?

The Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) is for dentists who qualified outside the UK and the EEA and wish to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) to practise in the UK. It tests your knowledge and clinical skills against UK standards.

What does the ORE Part 1 involve?

Part 1 is a computer-based exam that tests your knowledge of clinical dentistry, human disease, ethics, and basic sciences. It consists of two papers: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Extended Matching Questions (EMQs).

What is covered in your ORE Part 1 training course?

Our Part 1 course includes structured teaching, recorded and live sessions, full mock exams, over 2,000+ questions, revision materials, and expert tutor support. We ensure you're fully prepared for the GDC exam format.

How long is the ORE Part 1 course?

The course runs over a 3-month period, with flexible access to learning materials and live sessions. You can study at your own pace while receiving regular guidance.

What does the ORE Part 2 exam involve?

ORE Part 2 tests your clinical skills and includes OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations), manikin-based exercises, treatment planning, and a medical emergencies component.

Do you provide hands-on training for ORE Part 2?

Yes. Our ORE Part 2 training is highly practical and includes mock OSCEs, manikin training, treatment planning workshops, and simulated emergency scenarios with feedback from experienced UK clinicians.

Do you help with the ORE registration process?

Absolutely. We offer full guidance with GDC application forms, document checks, eligibility support, and help preparing a complete and compliant application for ORE registration.

How do I prove my English language proficiency?

You can submit an IELTS Academic (minimum score 7.0 overall, 6.5 per section) or an OET (minimum Grade B in all components). Other qualifications may be considered depending on your background.

Can I get help finding a job after passing the ORE?

Yes. We provide recruitment support for candidates who pass ORE, including job matching across our network of over 1,200 dental practices in the Smile DSO Group, interview coaching, and visa guidance.

Do you assist with visa sponsorship and relocation?

Yes. For eligible candidates, we can help you secure a job with visa sponsorship, assist with relocation planning, and provide support in settling into your new role in the UK.

What is the estimated total cost as an Indian Dentist wishing to work in the UK?

1.     GDC & ORE Fees

  • Application processing fee: £96

  • ORE Part 1 exam fee: £584

  • ORE Part 2 exam fee: £4,235

  • GDC first registration fee (if registering in January): £621
    Subtotal (GDC & ORE): £5,536

2.     UK Visa Costs

  • Visa application fee: £719

  • Immigration Health Surcharge (5 years): £3,120
    Subtotal Visa: £3,839

3.     Travel & Accommodation (2 Trips)

  • Flights £1100

  • Accommodation (4 nights × £100 × 2): £1100
    Subtotal Travel: £2,200

4.     Smile Dental Academy Training (Online & Mumbai)

  • Part 1 OSCE mock: ₹95,000 → £941

  • Part 2 programme: ₹387,000 → £3,831
    Total Training Cost: £4,772

Total Estimate

£16,347