ORE/ LDS - IDA COURSES

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) 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 rovide assistance with:

• GDC First-Year Registration Fee
  Full support and payment of your initial registration with the General Dental Council.

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

• Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship
  End-to-end assistance and sponsorship for your visa application under the Skilled Worker route.

• Mentorship & Clinical Supervision
  One-year mentorship in an NHS or mixed practice to build confidence, communication, and case management.

• Placement as a Dental Assistant/Observer (if needed pre-registration)
  Opportunity to gain UK clinical exposure while awaiting registration or visa clearance.

• Assistance with Accommodation
  Support in finding temporary or permanent housing near your assigned practice.

• Bank Account & NI Number Setup
  Help in opening a UK bank account and registering for your National Insurance number.

• DBS Application Support
  Assistance with your Disclosure & Barring Service clearance required for working with patients.

• NHS Performer Number (if eligible)
  Guidance through the NHS performer number process depending on pathway eligibility.

• Pastoral Support
  Help with settling in, transport orientation, local community introductions, and optional buddy pairing with other international dentists.

• Induction and onboarding into UK dental practice protocols

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

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

Salary Progression:

Year 1: Newly Registered Dentist

• Salary: £40,000 per annum

• You begin working under guidance, usually in a mentorship/associate hybrid model. You may assist with NHS and basic private cases.

Year 2: Developing Clinician

• Salary Range: £55,000 – £65,000 per annum

• You will now have one year of NHS/private experience. You’ll begin treating your own cases more independently, contributing to higher productivity and income, including entry-level cosmetic and restorative treatments.

Year 3 and Beyond: Experienced Associate

• Salary Range: £75,000 – £100,000+ per annum

• By this point, most dentists:

  • Have completed additional CPD or diploma-level courses (e.g. aesthetic dentistry, aligners, endodontics)

  • Manage a wider and more complex NHS/private caseload

  • Operate with greater autonomy and higher patient throughput

  • Are eligible to work in high-performing practices or private setups

• Note: Salary depends on region, practice size, clinical scope, and private revenue share.