Studying Dentistry in Turkey 2025: A Bright Smile for a Promising Future

In a world where health and beauty are increasingly important, dentistry is a medical profession that combines scientific precision with technical skill to maintain oral and dental health, thus improving individuals’ quality of life. It is a humanitarian profession that gives dentists the opportunity to bring smiles, alleviate pain, and restore self-confidence to patients. With the tremendous development witnessed in the Turkish healthcare sector, the increasing number of modern hospitals and clinics, and investment in advanced medical technology, Turkey has emerged as an attractive destination for ambitious international students aspiring to study dentistry in Turkey in 2025. This comprehensive article will provide you with a detailed guide covering everything you need to know about this vital specialization, from its definition and academic aspects to admission requirements, costs, and career prospects.

What is the specialty of dentistry? And why is it important in 2025?

Dentistry is a branch of medicine concerned with the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders affecting the mouth, teeth, gums, jaws, and surrounding tissues. It is a field that requires in-depth knowledge of medical science and the ability to apply precise manual skills.

The field of dentistry encompasses a wide range ofBranches and sub-specialties, including:

• General dentistry: basic dental care, fillings, tooth extractions, teeth cleaning.
• Orthodontics: Correcting irregular teeth and jaws.
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Treatment of injuries, diseases, and defects in the oral, facial, and jaw area.
• Pediatric Dentistry: Dental care for children and adolescents.
• Prosthodontics: Replacing missing teeth using bridges, crowns, and dentures.
• Endodontics: Treatment of dental pulp and root infections.
• Periodontics: Diagnosis and treatment of gum diseases.
• Cosmetic Dentistry: Improving the appearance of teeth (whitening, veneers, cosmetic crowns).
• Dental Implantation: Dental implants as a replacement for missing teeth.

In 2025 and beyond, the field of dentistry will become increasingly important due to the following global trends:

• Increased awareness of oral health: People are increasingly aware of the relationship between oral health and overall body health.
• Focus on aesthetics: With increasing interest in personal appearance, the demand for cosmetic dental procedures is growing.
• Technological advancements: The use of digital technology (such as 3D imaging, 3D printing, and digital smile design) is revolutionizing dentistry.
• Population aging: The increasing number of elderly people increases the need for dental care to maintain or replace natural teeth.
• Modern equipment and materials: The development of advanced filling materials, laser devices, and precision surgical techniques enables doctors to provide better care.

This continuous development makes dentistry a vital field that provides stable and rewarding career opportunities, and enables its specialists to make a positive and direct difference in people’s lives.

Advantages of studying dentistry in Türkiye 2025

Türkiye offers a range of unique advantages that make it an excellent choice for studying dentistry in 2025:

1. Quality of medical education and clinical training: Turkish dental colleges are known for providing high-quality education that combines modern theoretical curricula with intensive practical training in clinics and university hospitals equipped with the latest technologies.
2. Advanced infrastructure: Türkiye has very modern university dental hospitals and clinics, equipped with the latest imaging equipment, treatment units, and digital dental laboratories, providing an excellent training environment for students.
3. Affordable cost: Compared to many European and North American countries, the costs of studying and living in Turkey are very reasonable, making it an excellent economical option for international students wishing to obtain a high-quality medical education.
4. English-language programs: Many dental colleges in Turkish private universities and some public universities offer their programs entirely in English, making it easier for international students to study and understand specialized medical terminology.
5. Experienced professors: The academic staff in Turkish dental colleges are distinguished by their extensive experience in teaching, scientific research and clinical practice, and many of them have international certifications.
6. Multicultural environment: Türkiye attracts students from all over the world, creating a diverse educational environment that enriches the students’ academic and personal experience and enables them to connect with different cultures.
7. Training and research opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in research, scientific projects and workshops, which equips them with valuable research and applied skills.
8. Diverse job opportunities: Graduating from a prestigious Turkish university opens up a wide range of career prospects for you.Inside or outside Türkiye (after certificate equivalency)).

What will you study in the field of dentistry?

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (DDS/DMD) program is typically 5 years long in Türkiye, and covers a combination of basic sciences, medical sciences, and clinical sciences of dentistry:

• First Years (1-2): Basic and Medical Sciences:
  • Anatomy: The anatomy of the human body, head, neck, and mouth.
  • Physiology: The functions of the body’s organs.
  • Biochemistry: The chemical processes in the body.
  • Histology: The study of tissues at the microscopic level.
  • Pathology: The study of diseases and their effects on the body.
  • Pharmacology: The study of drugs and their effects.
  • Introduction to Dentistry: History of Dentistry and Professional Ethics.
• Middle Years (3): Pre-clinical Sciences:
  • Dental materials: A study of the materials used in dentistry (fillings, crowns, etc.).
  • Introduction to Clinical Specialties: Getting acquainted with specialties such as conservative dentistry, prosthodontics, periodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery.
  • Practical training in laboratories: practicing dental procedures on models and artificial teeth (phantoms) to develop manual skills.
• Final years (4-5): Clinical science and practical training:
  • Training in university clinics: Applying acquired knowledge and skills to real patients under the supervision of professors in all dental specialties.
  • Diagnosis and treatment of oral and dental diseases: Learn how to diagnose and treat various dental conditions.
  • Minor oral surgery: tooth extraction, abscesses.
  • Pediatric dentistry: Dealing with children and providing them with dental care.
  • Fixed and removable prosthetics: fitting of crowns, bridges, and dentures.
  • Root canal treatment: nerve removal procedures.
  • Gum diseases: Diagnosis and treatment of gum infections.
  • Orthodontics: Simple cases and principles of orthodontics.
  • Community Dentistry and Public Health: The role of the dentist in promoting oral health in the community.
  • Research and graduation projects: Students are often required to conduct scientific research or a graduation project.

Clinical training is the backbone of the dental program, with students spending long hours in clinics, enabling them to gain the necessary practical experience before graduation.

Admission requirements for studying dentistry in Türkiye 2025

Admission requirements for studying dentistry at Turkish universities for international students vary depending on the type of university (public or private) and the language of instruction:

1Public universities:

• High school diploma: Very high average (usually 90% or higher in the science track – mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology). Competition for places in dentistry at public universities is very high.
• Admission tests:
  • The YÖS exam: This is the Turkish aptitude test for foreign students, required by most public universities. Very high YÖS scores are required to compete for places in dental school.
  • The SAT (SAT I) test: Some public universities accept the SAT test as an alternative to the YÖS, and require a minimum score of 1300-1400.
• Proficiency in the language:
  • Turkish language: If the program is in Turkish, proof of language proficiency is required through the TOMER test at level C1, or the student can study a preparatory year for the Turkish language.
  • English Language: If the program is in English, proof of proficiency is required through tests such as TOEFL (minimum 80-90) or IELTS (minimum 6.0-6.5), or the student can pass the university’s language placement test.

2. Private (endowment) universities:

• High school diploma: competitive grades, usually lower than those required for public universities (may start at 70-80%, but are higher at prestigious universities). Academic degrees are accepted.
• Admission tests: Most private universities do not require YÖS or SAT tests as a basic requirement, and are satisfied with the high school GPA.
• Proficiency in the language:
  • Turkish language: Same requirements as for state universities if the program is in Turkish.
  • English language: Same requirements as government universities (TOEFL/IELTS) or passing the university’s language placement test.
• Additional documents: Some universities may require a letter of motivation, a resume, or a personal interview (especially for medical specialties).

Important advice: You should always check the official website of the university you wish to apply to in order to find out the latest and most accurate admission requirements for the academic year 2025-2026, as these requirements change periodically.

Cost of studying dentistry in Türkiye 2025

Türkiye offers a variety of options in terms of cost, making it suitable for different budgets:

1. Fees for public universities:

• Public universities are the most economical option. Annual tuition fees for studying dentistry at these universities typically range from US$1,000 to US$7,000.
• These fees are very reasonable compared to the quality of education and facilities available, and are considered a major competitive advantage.
• Programs taught in English may be slightly more expensive.

2Private university fees:

• Annual fees for studying dentistry at private (endowment) universities typically range from US$12,000 to US$25,000 or more.
• Private universities with high rankings, prestigious academic reputations, and state-of-the-art facilities may have higher fees within this range.
• Many private universities offer options for paying fees in installments (annual or quarterly) to make things easier for students.

Cost of living in Türkiye 2025:

In addition to tuition fees, students must estimate living costs, which vary depending on the city and the student’s lifestyle.

• Average monthly cost: Typically ranges from US$350 to US$700.
• Accommodation:
  • Government housing (KYK): about $50-$150 per month (cheapest option).
  • Private accommodations: $150-$400 per month.
  • Shared/private apartments: $200-$600 per month or more depending on location and city.
• Food: $100-$200 per month (you can save by cooking at home or eating at discounted university cafeterias).
• Transportation: Approximately $20-$40 per month using a discounted student transportation card.
• Health insurance: Mandatory for obtaining residency, approximately $100-$150 per year for government insurance (SGK).
• Personal expenses: $50-$150 per month (books, school supplies, entertainment).

advice:Larger cities such as Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir have a higher cost of living compared to smaller cities.

Best universities to study dentistry in Türkiye 2025

Many Turkish universities offer excellent dental programs, and here are the most prominent ones based on rankings and reputation:

1. Hacettepe University:
   • It is considered one of the best Turkish universities in general, and in medicine and dentistry in particular.
   • Located in Ankara, it is famous for its modern facilities, advanced university hospitals and strong scientific research capabilities.
2. Istanbul University – Faculty of Dentistry:
   • It is one of the oldest and most prestigious dental colleges in Türkiye, and has a long history of graduating outstanding dentists.
   • It is located in Istanbul and offers excellent clinical training.
3. Ege University:
   • Located in Izmir, it is one of the leading state universities and has a strong and reputable Faculty of Dentistry.
4. Gazi University:
   • It is located in Ankara and has a prestigious dental school that offers outstanding education and clinical training.
5. Ankara University:
   • A prestigious dental college in the capital, offering strong medical programs and good clinical training.
6. Istanbul Medipol University
   • A rapidly growing private university with very modern, state-of-the-art teaching hospitals, making it an excellent environment for training dentists.
7. Bahçeşehir University:
   • A prestigious private university in Istanbul, offering dentistry programs in English, and distinguished by its location and international connections.
8. Yeditepe University:
   • A private university in Istanbul, offering dental programs in English, with very modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art laboratories.

Career prospects for dental graduates in Türkiye and worldwide in 2025

Dentistry is a globally in-demand profession, offering broad and stable job opportunities, due to the ongoing need for oral healthcare.

Potential areas of work:

• Working in private clinics: A dental graduate can open their own clinic or work in existing dental clinics.
• Government and private hospitals: Working as a general dentist or specialist in hospital dental departments.
• Medical centers and health centers: Providing basic dental care services.
• Education and academic research: After completing postgraduate studies (Master’s/PhD or specialization), one can work as a university professor or researcher in dental colleges.
• Dental equipment and materials manufacturing companies: in the research and development, or marketing and sales departments.
• Public Health and Society: Working on oral health awareness programs and providing preventive services.
• Specializations: After graduation, one can specialize in one of the previously mentioned branches (orthodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, etc.), which increases specialization, demand, and salary.

In Turkey, the healthcare sector is experiencing significant growth and investment in modern hospitals and clinics, creating a continuous demand for qualified dentists. Medical tourism in Turkey, particularly in the field of cosmetic dentistry, also offers additional opportunities.

Tips to boost your career opportunities:

• Academic and clinical excellence: Excellence in study and practical training is absolutely essential.
• Continuous practical training: Participating in workshops and advanced training courses to keep up with the latest technologies and practices in dentistry (such as digital dentistry, dental implants, lasers).
• Learning Turkish: Mastering the Turkish language is crucial for effective communication with patients and colleagues in Türkiye.
• Building a network of relationships: Attending medical conferences, workshops, and industry events will enable you to connect with experts.
• Focus on manual skills and precision: Dentistry relies heavily on manual dexterity.
• Soft Skills: Good communication skills with patients, empathy, problem-solving, and clinic management.
• Specialization: Consider specializing in one of the branches of dentistry after graduation to increase your opportunities and specialization.
• Interest in scientific research: Participating in research enhances your academic and professional profile.

Studying dentistry in Turkey in 2025 offers an exceptional opportunity for ambitious students seeking a career that combines a passion for health sciences with precise technical skill. With a robust medical education system, modern hospitals and clinics, and reasonable costs (especially at public universities), Turkey is an ideal destination to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful dentist. If you are ready to take on this long and rewarding educational journey, Turkey provides the environment and support you need to achieve your ambitions and bring smiles to the world.