1. What is a Dental Surgeon?

A dental surgeon is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases and conditions. Their work includes treating tooth decay, performing surgeries (like extractions or implants), correcting dental irregularities, and educating patients about oral hygiene. They use high levels of manual dexterity to carry out complex surgical and dental procedures. They work in various settings, including private practices, hospitals, and academic institutions

Dental surgery offers a dynamic and intellectually rewarding career, with opportunities to make a lasting impact on patients' lives and contribute to the broader healthcare system.

2. Education and Training Pathway

Step 1: Undergraduate Dental Degree (5 years) : To become a dental surgeon in Rwanda, you must complete a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree at:

• The University of Rwanda – College of Medicine and Health Sciences (UR-CMHS)
  -> Visit UR-CMHS website

During your studies, you'll gain both academic and hands-on clinical training in areas such as general dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics.

Step 2: One-Year Internship : After graduation, students complete a 12-month supervised internship, gaining practical experience in key dental specialties under licensed professionals.

Step 3: Licensing : Once the internship is completed, graduates must register with the Rwanda Medical and Dental Council (RMDC) to be licensed as general dental surgeons.

Step 4: Specialization (Optional) : Dental surgeons who wish to specialize can pursue postgraduate training through residency programs designed to provide specialized skills in various dental and maxillofacial practices. Those programs help them gain expertise in diagnosing and treating complex dental and oral conditions, performing surgeries, and providing comprehensive patient care.

3. Admission Requirements to Dental School

Admission to a BDS program in Rwanda requires:

• A-level subject combinations: PCB, MCB, BCG, or Associate Nurse
• Two principal passes: Biology and Chemistry (Grades A, B, or C)
• Subsidiary pass in either: Mathematics, Physics, Geography, or Fundamentals of Nursing
• Foreign qualifications: Must be evaluated and equated by NESA ( Examination and School Inspection Authority (NESA)
• Additional requirements may be set by individual universities

4. What Do Dental Surgeons Do?

Dental surgeons play a vital role in healthcare, with responsibilities including:

• Consulting, diagnosing, and treating oral diseases in patients.
• Alleviating oral pain and discomfort.
• Administering and prescribing medications.
• Performing dental procedures and surgeries.
• Counseling patients and their families on oral hygiene and preventive care
• Collaborate with other medical specialists on head and neck conditions
• Planning and executing public health programs and providing oral health education.
• Teaching and mentoring dental students and junior professionals.
• Engaging in research to advance dental knowledge.
• Contributing to the development of dental health guidelines and policies.

5. Key Skills for Dental Surgeons

To succeed in dentistry, professionals must develop both clinical expertise and essential soft skills:

• Manual dexterity and precision
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Integrity, tact and understanding.
• Problem-solving and diagnostic ability
• Attention to detail
• Empathy and patience
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Commitment to continuous learning
• Leadership and decision-making in clinical settings

6. Job Market in Rwanda

• Health Workforce Job Application
• MIFOTRA : e-recruitement for public services

7. Studying Dentistry Abroad: Key Considerations

If you plan to pursue dental education outside Rwanda, consider the following:

• HEC Recognition: Ensure the university is recognized by the Higher Education Council (HEC) of Rwanda.
• Meet Admission Criteria: You must have two principal passes in Biology and Chemistry.
• Registration with RMDC: All foreign dental students must register with the Rwanda Medical and Dental Council and obtain an index number.

Without these requirements, your degree may not be recognized for professional practice in Rwanda.

8. Professional Associations for Dental Surgeons in Rwanda

Becoming a member of a professional body can help with continuing education, networking, and career growth:

• The Rwanda Medical and Dental Council (RMDC)
  -> Visit RMDC website
• The Rwanda Dental Association -> Visit their website

9. Other Professions in Dentistry

Dental Therapist

Who they are: Dental professionals offering preventive and basic restorative care.

Education Pathway:

• Bachelor  in Dental Therapy

Key Skills:

• Oral health education
• Dental hygiene

Job Market:

• Dental clinics