How to Become a Dentist in the Philippines: Your Complete, Compassionate Guide

The Relatable Hook: Is it Really This Hard to Be a Dentist?

Maybe you want to wear that neat white coat, or you’ve smiled at a nice set of teeth and thought, “Could I do that for my job?” If you’re searching for simple answers to how to become a dentist in the Philippines, you’re definitely not alone! Many people think about it—wanting to help others, be called “Doctor,” or have a respected and steady job.

But now for the big question: is it really that tough? With all the requirements, NMAT tests, school fees, and board exams, it might seem confusing. Good news: I’m here to explain everything, step by step, using real info, good tips, and a friendly touch. This guide won’t just tell you what to do—it’ll share how the path feels, why each step counts, and how you can do it.

In This Article

• Why Should You Think About Dentistry? The Hope and the Steps
• Step 1: Getting Ready—Pre-Dental Courses
• Step 2: Entering and Succeeding in Dental School
• Step 3: Passing the Dental Board Exam
• Step 4: Starting Your Career After Graduating
• The Real-Life Hard Parts and Good Parts
• Main Points and What to Do Next

Why Should You Think About Dentistry? The Hope and the Steps

Dentistry in the Philippines isn’t just about fixing teeth. It’s about bringing confidence, ending pain, and really making people’s lives better. Here, the need for oral healthcare is big—whether in busy Manila or small towns where dentists are rare. Dentists sit at the crossroad of science, skill, and caring.

People ask: “Is dentistry a good course in the Philippines?” Here’s the straight answer:

• Big Need: There’s a big need for dentists, especially in the countryside where dental care is hard to get.
• Money Stability: While dentist salary changes based on place and experience, many seasoned dentists make a good and regular income.
• Personal Joy: Dentistry gives freedom, different work hours, and the special chance to see lives change.
• Working Abroad: Dentists from the Philippines can find jobs not just at home but also overseas—even in places like Canada or the U.S., if they meet the rules.

So, what path should you walk? Let’s get started.

Step 1: Getting Ready—Pre-Dental Courses

Before dental school, you have to build some basics during college. Think of it as getting your tools before making a new house.

What is a Pre-Dental Course?

Pre-dental courses are not just extra steps. They help you get key knowledge in biology, chemistry, and body parts so you’ll be ready for dental school. Popular pre-dental degrees in the Philippines include:

• Bachelor of Science in Biology
• BS in Medical Technology
• BS in Psychology

A science course is needed, but lots of students choose BS Biology—it’s like the “all-around option” for pre-dental.

Simple example: If you want to cook a fancy meal, you don’t start there. First, you learn to cut onions and mix flavors. Pre-dental is about knowing the basics.

How Long Will It Take?

A usual pre-dental course in the Philippines is four years. Add another six years for dental school, and you’re looking at about ten years to become a dentist. Yes, it’s long, but each semester helps you learn more and gets you more ready.

Important Subjects and What You Learn

You’ll meet:

• General Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• Anatomy and Body Study
• English and Thinking Skills

See these not as problems, but as help for your future dental lessons.

Grades and NMAT: What Do Dental Schools Want?

• Your Grades: Most schools want your average score to be about 85% (or GPA of 2.0 or better).
• The NMAT (National Medical Admission Test): This is like a ticket to get into dental school. NMAT checks if you’re ready in science, math, and social studies.
• Minimum Score: Most want a percentile rank of 50 or higher, but top schools might want more.
• Advice: Don’t just try to pass the NMAT—review early, use online help, and do practice tests. This is your “first big test”—show them you can handle it!

Step 2: Entering and Succeeding in Dental School

Understanding the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Course

Now you move from books to real care. The DMD program takes six years, split like this:

You start working with dental tools, making models, and doing your first hands-on trials.

You treat real patients (but there’s a teacher watching), doing tasks like fillings and tooth removal.

Top Dental Schools in the Philippines

There are many good choices, but these schools are well known for experience and high passing grades on the board:

• University of the Philippines Manila (UPM)
• Centro Escolar University (CEU)
• University of the East (UE)
• Manila Central University (MCU)
• Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU)
• National University (NU)
• University of Perpetual Help System DALTA (UPHSD)

When picking a school, check the fees, where it’s located, professor skill, equipment and labs, and internship chances.

What Do You Need to Apply?

• Proof you finished a pre-dental degree
• Your grades and GPA
• NMAT scores
• Application forms, maybe essays, and sometimes a school test or interview
• Paper showing you have good behavior
• Some want a medical check-up (so you’re ready for clinic work)

Tip: Only go to schools approved by CHED—quality matters.

The Money Side: Tuition, Fees, Scholarships

Dental school costs money. Here’s the basics:

• Public universities (like UPM): Cheaper; pay about ₱40,000–₱80,000 yearly.
• Private dental schools: More expensive; yearly fees can be ₱120,000–₱280,000 or more.
• Other costs: Books, tools, clinic gowns, board review—can add another ₱50,000–₱80,000 every year.
• Scholarships/loans: Look for CHED, PDA, and private help for students who need it, or who do very well.

Tip: Every peso is for your future. Many students use loans or grants to finish—just ask about your options early.

Step 3: Passing the Dental Board Exam

What is the PRC Board Exam?

Even after your DMD, you can’t work alone yet. You need to pass the Dental Licensure Exam from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

Who Can Take the Exam?

• Filipino citizen
• Finished dental school approved by CHED
• Your grades
• Filled out application and payment

What’s in the Exam?

1. Written Test:

Covers:

• General and Tooth Anatomy, Body Functions, Illnesses
• Dentures, Braces, Gums and Teeth Cleaning (these are main “fields” in dentistry)
• Public health and how to help the community

2. Hands-on/Practical Test:

You show your skills—using tools, working with fake teeth and materials, doing actual simple treatments.

Is It Hard to Pass?

Passing rates change—sometimes 50% pass, sometimes closer to 70%. Review classes help, but how hard you studied in school is most important.

Test tip: Learn to keep calm, manage your time, and organize your learning.

If You Don’t Pass?

You can try again, but you’ll need to pay again and study more. Failing happens—it’s more regular than most people think.

Oath and Your License

When you pass, you take an oath and get your card. This card is what lets you work as a real dentist.

Step 4: Starting Your Career After Graduating

Finishing school and getting your license is big—but now your real journey starts.

Where Can You Work?

1. Private Practice

• Work by yourself, with a group, or with other dentists.
• You can open your own clinic or join an already working one.

2. Hospital Dentistry

• Be part of a hospital team, solving more difficult dental cases.

3. Teaching

• Teach students in dental schools, and help train new dentists.

4. Public Health Dentistry

• Work in city or town health centers, government programs, or the Department of Health (DOH).

5. Military Dentistry

• Give dental care to soldiers.

Making Your Career Grow: Specializing and Continuing to Learn

After some work, you may really like one part of dentistry:

• Braces (Orthodontics): Straighten teeth
• Mouth Surgery (Oral Surgery): Surgical dental treatments
• Children’s Dentistry: Helping kids with their teeth
• Other fields: Gum care, root canal, fake teeth, teeth beauty, and more

Some need extra school—many top dental schools in the Philippines and nearby countries offer this. You also need to earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits to keep your license active—means always learning and getting better.

How Much Can You Earn? The Job Market

New dentists might start at about ₱20,000–₱30,000 a month in government jobs or countryside areas. In private clinics, or if you have more experience or are in big cities, you can earn a lot more.

Your pay will depend on:

• Place (Manila or province)
• Special training
• Clinic name and your own promotions
• People who suggest you to others

Some want to work abroad—and it is possible. Many Filipino dentists later get the extra papers to work in Canada, the U.S., Australia, and more.

Real-Life Hard Parts and Good Parts

Of course, it’s not always easy. Here’s some quick thoughts:

The Hard Parts

• Cost: School and equipment can be expensive—but help is out there like scholarships or loans.
• Lots of rivalry: More dentists in cities; countryside needs more, but pay there is not as high.
• Stress and tiredness: You work long hours leaning over patients; good habits and self-care keep your health up.

The Good Parts

• Big effect in people’s lives: Fixing a smile or stopping a toothache means a lot.
• More freedom: You can choose your hours and even run your own clinic.
• Good pay: Hard work can bring good money and a steady job.
• Never stop learning: There’s always something new, like digital dentistry or new dental materials.

Your Healthy Takeaway: The Empowering Conclusion

Here’s your quick checklist to be a dentist in the Philippines:

• Finish a pre-dental degree (usually BS Biology or Medical Technology)
• Get a good NMAT score (at least 50+, higher for top schools)
• Apply to a CHED-approved dental school and complete six hard years of lessons and clinic work
• Pass the PRC Dental Licensure Exam (both written and hands-on)
• Start your career—pick private clinics, teaching, public health, or where you love best
• Think about extra training for a bigger or more modern practice

Can You Really Do This?

Yes, you can! Like any dream, being a dentist needs patience, hard work, and a real wish to help. If you care about making people smile, this might be the right job for you.

What’s your next step?

• Look up which dental schools match your budget, where you live, and what matters to you.
• Talk to students or current dentists—maybe even visit a dental ceramics lab to see what’s possible.
• Study for the NMAT with heart and focus.
• Search for scholarships, loans, or jobs at school—you have options if you look early.
• Remember: This is not just work. You’re helping fix the oral health of real people in the Philippines.

The world needs more kind, smart dentists—maybe more than ever. Your next patient may already be waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to become a dentist in the Philippines?

Usually, 10 years (4 years pre-dental + 6 years for DMD).

2. What are the top dental schools in the Philippines?

University of the Philippines Manila, Centro Escolar University, University of the East, Manila Central University, and others.

3. Do dentists earn good money in the Philippines?

Yes—but your pay depends on where you work, how long you’ve worked, and what type of clinic.

4. Can dentists work in other countries?

Yes, with extra paperwork and tests. Many Filipino dentists do well overseas.

5. Do the provinces need dentists?

Definitely! Towns and faraway places often need dentists the most.

More To Explore

• Interested in new tools? See what a digital dental lab can do for your future work.
• Need tips for students? Check out our dental practical guide for easy tricks and help.
• Want to hear a patient’s side? Visit patient dental for a look at different dental stories.

Remember: Your dream job is built one step at a time—college classes, NMAT, dental school applications, board exam review, and finally, caring for patients. Start today, and soon, you’ll give a patient a smile that lasts.