- Desire2Study
- Apr 4
- 12 min read
Updated: Apr 6
Table of Contents
Dentistry vs. medicine as career choices
Choosing between dentistry vs. medicine is one of the biggest decisions aspiring healthcare professionals face. Both careers are highly respected, financially rewarding, and require years of education and training. However, many students wonder: is dentistry more competitive than medicine? Or, in terms of financial prospects, how does the salary compare? Some even ask, is dentistry better than medicine in terms of work-life balance and career satisfaction?
When deciding between medicine versus dentistry, there are several important factors to consider, including study length, entry requirements, daily responsibilities, work-life balance, salary expectations, and career growth opportunities. For those considering international education, it’s worth noting that studying medicine in Europe is an increasingly popular choice for students looking for affordable and accessible options. Many aspiring doctors are drawn to the best medical schools in Europe, such as those in Poland, Slovakia, Lithuania or Hungary, where high-quality programs are offered at a fraction of the cost compared to the US or the UK.
This guide will provide a detailed comparison to help you determine which career path aligns with your goals, skills, and interests. We’ll also answer common questions and explore reasons why some believe dentistry is better than medicine.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor or a Dentist?
The journey to becoming a doctor or a dentist is long and demanding, requiring years of education, training, and practical experience. The length of study varies significantly depending on the country, and additional years may be required for specialization. Here's a breakdown of how long it takes in the UK, US, and Europe to become fully qualified in each profession.
United Kingdom (UK)
Medicine:
Medical school typically lasts 5 to 6 years, depending on the university and whether an additional intercalated degree is pursued.
After completing medical school, graduates must undertake a 2-year Foundation Program (FY1 & FY2), where they work as junior doctors under supervision.
Following the foundation years, doctors enter specialty training, which can take anywhere from 3 to 7+ years depending on the chosen specialty.
In total, it can take at least 10 years to become a fully qualified consultant or general practitioner in the UK.
Dentistry:
Dental school lasts 5 years, covering clinical training and academic studies.
After graduation, most UK dental graduates complete a 1-year Dental Foundation Training (DFT) to practice independently within the National Health Service (NHS).
Some dentists opt for further postgraduate training in specialties such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or periodontics, which can take an additional 3-5 years.
Unlike medicine, most dentists can start working in general practice immediately after their 5-6 years of training, making it a quicker route to professional practice.
United States (US)
Medicine:
Becoming a doctor in the US requires a 4-year undergraduate degree, often in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry.
After completing their undergraduate studies, students must pass the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) to gain entry into a 4-year medical school program.
Upon graduation, they begin residency training, which lasts between 3 to 7 years, depending on the chosen specialty.
In total, it takes 11 to 15 years to become a fully licensed physician in the US.
Dentistry:
Similar to medicine, dentistry in the US requires a 4-year undergraduate degree, often in pre-dentistry or a science-based major.
Students then enter 4 years of dental school, where they receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
After graduating, dentists can start practicing immediately, although those who want to specialize (e.g., orthodontics, oral surgery) must complete 2 to 6 additional years of specialty training.
Most general dentists can start their careers after 8 years of education, making it a shorter path compared to medicine.
Europe
Medicine:
In most European countries, medical programs last 6 years and integrate pre-clinical and clinical training.
Unlike the UK and US, European medical graduates do not always require a foundation program, but some countries mandate a 1-year internship before granting full medical licensure.
After completing the 6-year program, doctors may enter specialist training, which can take an additional 3 to 6+ years.
Overall, it takes 9 to 12+ years to become a fully licensed specialist doctor in Europe.
Dentistry:
Dentistry programs in Europe typically last 5 years, and students begin clinical training early in their studies.
Unlike in the UK, most European countries do not require a foundation year, allowing graduates to start practicing immediately.
Specialization options, such as oral surgery or orthodontics, require an additional 3-5 years of postgraduate training.
This means dentists in Europe can begin working sooner than doctors, completing their training in 5 to 6 years.
Entry Requirements for Medicine and Dentistry
Both medicine and dentistry are highly competitive fields, known for their rigorous selection processes and demanding academic standards. Entry requirements vary significantly by country, but in general, students are expected to demonstrate academic excellence, strong science backgrounds, and relevant admissions test scores.
United Kingdom (UK)
Medicine: Applicants typically need A-Level grades of AAA to A*AA, with Biology and Chemistry being mandatory subjects. In addition to academic performance, students must take entrance exams such as the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test), BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test), or GAMSAT for graduate entry. Medicine in the UK is extremely competitive, with acceptance rates often below 10% at top universities.
Dentistry: Requirements are slightly more flexible but still high, usually A*AA to ABB at A-Level (or equivalent), again with Biology and Chemistry. Most dental schools in the UK also require the UCAT or BMAT, and students are expected to demonstrate a clear interest in dentistry through work experience or volunteering in dental settings.
United States (US)
Medicine: Admission requires a 4-year undergraduate degree (usually in a science-related field), a high GPA (typically 3.5 or above), and a strong MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) score. In addition, students must have completed prerequisite coursework in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English. Medical school admissions in the US are extremely competitive, especially for top programs.
Dentistry: Similarly, candidates must have a 4-year undergraduate degree, along with a good GPA (generally 3.3 or higher), and a competitive DAT (Dental Admission Test) score. Some dental schools also require interviews and evidence of shadowing or clinical experience. Like medicine, dentistry is also a highly selective field in the US.
Europe
Entry into medicine or dentistry in Europe is generally more accessible than in the UK or US, particularly for international students. Many European medical and dental universities do not require entrance exams, though some may have their own internal assessments or interviews. Grade requirements also tend to be lower; for example, many programs accept students with high school diplomas and good science marks, without demanding the highest-level scores.
Countries such as Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Latvia and Cyprus are popular destinations for international students who want to study medicine or dentistry in English-taught programs. Entry requirements vary but are typically more flexible. Some universities use a first-come, first-served model, while others base admission on a short written test in Biology and Chemistry or even Physics.
European universities are especially appealing because of their lower tuition fees, smaller class sizes, and the opportunity to obtain an internationally recognised degree. Additionally, many are part of the EU Bologna Process, ensuring standardised qualifications across Europe.
What Is Harder to Study: Medicine or Dentistry?
When it comes to comparing the difficulty of studying medicine vs. dentistry, there's no straightforward answer—it really depends on your personal strengths, learning style, and what aspects of healthcare you're most passionate about. However, both degrees are academically challenging, time-intensive, and require serious commitment from day one.
Medicine is often viewed as broader in scope. Medical students must master a huge volume of information about the human body, diseases, pharmacology, and clinical skills. The curriculum typically involves lectures, labs, and clinical placements in various specialties like surgery, general practice, psychiatry, and internal medicine. The workload is heavy, and the path is long, especially with the extra years required for foundation training and specialisation. Medicine also requires high emotional resilience, as students frequently work in fast-paced hospital settings, seeing critically ill patients.
Dentistry, while more specialised, is no less demanding. Dental students not only learn complex subjects like anatomy, pathology, and oral surgery—they also begin practical hands-on training from an early stage. There’s a steep learning curve when it comes to developing manual dexterity and mastering the technical skills needed for procedures such as fillings, crowns, and root canals. Dentistry is physically demanding, requiring precision and concentration during long hours of clinical work.
What makes dentistry challenging in a different way is the combination of academic pressure with early patient interaction and technical perfection. While medicine may feel overwhelming due to its breadth and the number of specialisms, dentistry often demands a faster transition from theory to real-life practice.
In truth, both medicine and dentistry are tough in their own ways. Medicine might be harder in terms of content volume and career length, while dentistry could be more demanding when it comes to technical skills and hand-eye coordination. Ultimately, the “harder” path is the one that doesn’t align with your personal interests and abilities—so choosing the right career should come down to passion and purpose, not just perceived difficulty.
Cost of Education: Studying Medicine vs. Dentistry
The cost of pursuing a degree in medicine or dentistry can vary significantly depending on where you choose to study. Tuition fees, living costs, and potential additional expenses (like exams or materials) all contribute to the overall financial commitment. It's important to consider not just the cost, but also what you receive in return—such as access to clinical placements, facilities, and academic support.
United Kingdom (UK):
Medicine: Tuition fees for domestic (UK) students are currently capped at £9,250 per year. However, international students can expect to pay anywhere from £20,000 to £50,000 per year, depending on the university and course structure. Additional living costs—especially in cities like London—can push the overall expense even higher.
Dentistry: Costs mirror those of medicine, with £9,250 per year for UK students and £20,000 to £50,000 per year for international applicants. Some dental schools may charge on the higher end of the spectrum due to the equipment and facilities required for hands-on training.
United States (US):
Medicine: Tuition fees for medical schools in the US typically range from $40,000 to $80,000 per year, with private institutions often being more expensive than public ones. Additionally, most students must complete a 4-year undergraduate degree before entering medical school, increasing the total cost of becoming a doctor.
Dentistry: Similar to medicine, dental programs can cost between $40,000 and $80,000 per year, not including the cost of a bachelor's degree. Dental students may also incur extra expenses for instruments, lab fees, and licensing exams.
Europe:
Medicine: In many European countries, students can enter medical school directly after high school. Tuition fees are more affordable compared to the UK and US, averaging around €12,500 per year for a 6-year program. Countries like Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Romania are popular among international students for offering English-taught programs and modern medical education.
Dentistry: Tuition for dental degrees in Europe typically costs around €13,000 per year for a 5-year course. In many cases, students begin clinical training earlier than in other systems, providing practical experience throughout their studies.
European universities are recognised for their high-quality education and lower tuition fees, making them a compelling choice for students looking to study abroad. For international applicants, especially those from outside the EU, Europe provides a more accessible and cost-effective alternative without compromising educational standards.
When comparing the cost of education in medicine vs. dentistry, it's clear that both paths are expensive, particularly in the US and UK. However, studying in Europe can significantly reduce financial pressure while still offering respected qualifications and diverse career opportunities.
Which Career Has a Faster Route to Employment?
If you're choosing a career path, comparing dentistry vs. medicine can help you understand which field suits your interests more. One of the key differences when comparing dentistry vs. medicine is how quickly graduates can start working independently in their chosen profession. For students who are eager to begin earning and practicing as soon as possible, this can be a major deciding factor.
Dentistry, across most regions, generally allows for a faster and more direct route into employment. After completing a 5-year dental degree, graduates in the UK typically undergo 1 year of foundation training before becoming fully licensed to work as general dental practitioners. In Europe, many countries allow dentists to practice immediately upon graduation, without the need for a separate foundation program or residency. This streamlined approach means that within 5 to 6 years, most dental graduates are fully qualified and able to either join private practices, work in public health settings, or even establish their own clinics.
Medicine, on the other hand, involves a significantly longer training pathway. In the UK, after 5 to 6 years of medical school, graduates must complete a 2-year Foundation Programme, followed by specialty training which can last anywhere from 3 to 8 years, depending on the field. Similarly, in the US, aspiring doctors must complete 4 years of undergraduate study, 4 years of medical school, and then residency training that can span 3 to 7 years. Even in Europe, where students can enter medical school straight after high school, most programs last 6 years, and some countries still require an internship or national exam before full licensure.
While the pathway to becoming a doctor is longer and more complex, it’s designed to provide a broad and deep foundation in patient care, diagnostics, and systemic health issues. For many, the extra years are worth the investment, especially if they aspire to specialise in areas such as surgery, internal medicine, or paediatrics.
That said, if your goal is to enter the workforce sooner, begin earning earlier, and potentially build your own business or career more quickly, dentistry clearly offers a more time-efficient route. With fewer years of post-graduate training and a straightforward transition to practice, it can be an appealing option for those seeking an earlier return on their educational investment.
The decision depends on your career goals, interests, and personal priorities—speed of entry into the profession versus the breadth and variety of medical practice.
Doctor vs. Dentist Salary
Earning potential is an important factor in choosing a career.
United Kingdom (UK):
Doctors: Foundation year doctors earn £30,000-£40,000, with consultants earning £80,000-£120,000.
Dentists: Newly qualified dentists earn £35,000-£45,000, but private practitioners can make £100,000+.
United States (US):
Doctors: General physicians earn $200,000-$300,000, with specialists exceeding $400,000.
Dentists: General dentists earn $150,000-$250,000, with specialists like orthodontists making $300,000+.
Dentists often reach high earnings faster, especially in private practice, whereas medical doctors take longer to reach top salaries.
Work-Life Balance: Which Career Offers More Flexibility?
Doctors: Often work long, unpredictable hours, especially in hospitals. Night shifts and on-call duties are common.
Dentists: Usually work structured hours, particularly in private practice, providing a better work-life balance.
Many consider why dentistry is better than medicine, and one key reason is the better control over working hours.
What Skills and Qualities Do You Need to Be a Doctor or a Dentist?
Whether you choose to become a doctor or a dentist, both careers demand a strong set of core skills and personal qualities. Communication is absolutely vital—healthcare professionals must be able to explain complex procedures clearly, listen carefully to patients, and work effectively with colleagues. Empathy, patience, and emotional resilience are equally important, especially when dealing with anxious patients or delivering difficult news. A strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are also essential in both fields.
That said, there are a few differences between the two. Dentists often work in more hands-on, precision-focused environments where manual dexterity and fine motor skills are crucial. They also tend to manage smaller teams or their own practices, requiring good business acumen and time management. Doctors, meanwhile, may work across a broader range of medical conditions and specialities, so they need to be comfortable with complex diagnostic reasoning, multitasking, and long-term patient care. Both roles require lifelong learning and the ability to adapt to rapidly evolving medical knowledge and technologies.
Dentist vs. Doctor: Pros and Cons
Pros of Medicine
✔️ Diverse career options
✔️ High earning potential in specialized fields
✔️ Ability to make life-saving decisions
Cons of Medicine
❌ Long and demanding training
❌ High stress and long hours
❌ On-call responsibilities
Pros of Dentistry
✔️ Shorter training period
✔️ More predictable working hours
✔️ High earning potential in private practice
Cons of Dentistry
❌ Limited scope of practice
❌ Expensive equipment and clinic setup costs
❌ Requires excellent manual skills
How to Choose Between Medicine and Dentistry?
One major difference between dentistry vs. medicine is the focus on oral health versus general body systems. Choosing between medicine and dentistry comes down to understanding your personal interests, strengths, and long-term career aspirations.
Consider whether you prefer broad medical knowledge or specialized dental care.
Think about your career goals, work-life balance preferences, and income expectations.
Evaluate your strengths: Are you better at hands-on procedures (dentistry) or problem-solving and diagnostics (medicine)?
Weigh up your priorities—whether it's income potential, patient relationships, the type of work environment you prefer, or how long you're willing to train—before making your decision.
FAQs on Medicine vs. Dentistry
Which is better: dentistry or medicine?
There is no definitive answer—both are excellent careers. It depends on personal preferences, work-life balance priorities, and career goals.
Is dentistry more difficult than medicine?
Both are challenging but in different ways—dentistry requires precision and manual skills, while medicine covers a broader range of conditions.
How competitive is getting into medicine or dentistry?
Both fields are highly competitive, requiring top grades, entrance exams, and strong personal statements.
Why dentistry is better than medicine?
Dentistry offers a shorter study period, structured working hours, and high earning potential. Many dentists also enjoy greater work-life balance.
Why medicine is better than dentistry?
Medicine offers diverse career opportunities, the ability to save lives, and a broader range of specializations. Many doctors find deep satisfaction in their work.
Both medicine and dentistry are rewarding careers. Your choice should depend on your passion, career aspirations, and preferred lifestyle.
