SS
← Back to Dentist

How to become a Dentist in South Africa

Diagnoses and treats oral health problems in clinics, hospitals and private practices.

Step-by-step path

  1. STEP 1
    Education
    BDS degree + HPCSA registration
    1–6 yrs
  2. STEP 2
    Entry job
    First role: Community Service Dentist
    0–2 yrs
  3. STEP 3
    Mid-level growth
    Move into: Dentist
    3–6 yrs
  4. STEP 4
    Senior transition
    Reach: Senior Dentist
    7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level
~ 7–10 years
Education bds degree + hpcsa registration, then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1
R45 000
/month
Year 5
R90 000
/month
Year 10
R150 000
/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL
  • Clinical dentistryHigh
  • Patient communicationHigh
MID-CAREER
  • Patient communicationHigh
  • Practice managementMedium
SENIOR
  • Practice managementMedium
  • SpecialisationHigh

Compare this career

Compare salaries
Dentist vs Medical Doctor
Compare salaries
Dentist vs Registered Nurse
Compare salaries
Dentist vs Pharmacist
Compare salaries
Dentist vs Physiotherapist
Compare careersSee higher paying jobs