Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a dentist?

A dentist is a healthcare professional qualified to maintain oral and dental health, diagnose diseases and disorders of the teeth, gums, and surrounding oral–maxillofacial tissues, and provide treatment and rehabilitation across these areas.

What qualities are important for becoming a dentist?

Dentistry requires strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, patience, spatial reasoning, a solid background in the biological sciences, and a well-developed sense of aesthetics. A disciplined and consistent work ethic is also essential for academic and clinical success.

How long does dental education take, and how is the curriculum structured?

Dental education spans five years.
The first three years focus on basic medical sciences, theoretical coursework, and preclinical laboratory training. The final two years consist of intensive, supervised clinical practice.

Is dental school difficult?

Dentistry is a demanding program that combines rigorous theoretical instruction with extensive practical training. Foundational science courses and preclinical laboratory work require steady, disciplined study.

Does the program include hands-on training?

Yes. Students begin by practicing on models and phantom heads in preclinical laboratories. As they progress, they transition into clinical practice, where they treat real patients under supervision.

How important are manual skills in dentistry?

Manual dexterity is one of the core requirements of the profession. Through repeated practice and structured training, every student can develop the skill level necessary to perform clinical procedures safely and effectively.

When do students begin treating patients?

Students begin clinical rotations and direct patient care in the fourth year.

Are clinical procedures subject to additional fees?

No. Students are not charged any additional fees for the clinical procedures they perform as part of their training.

Is dental education expensive?

The university provides high-cost equipment required in preclinical training, such as laboratory motors. Low-cost consumables (soap blocks, plastic teeth, etc.) are purchased by students.
In the clinical phase, most of the instruments and materials needed for patient care are supplied by the university.

What degree do graduates receive?

Dentistry is an undergraduate professional program. At the end of the 5-year education period, the student is awarded a master's degree and a master's diploma in addition to the bachelor's degree.

What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates may work in:

• Public hospitals,

• Oral and dental health centers,

• Private clinics and hospitals,

• or establish their own private practices.

They may also pursue careers in companies producing or marketing dental materials, instruments, and oral healthcare products.

Can graduates open their own dental clinic?

Yes. Upon completing their degree and meeting licensing requirements, dentists may independently open and operate their own clinics.

Are there specialization options in dentistry?

Yes. Türkiye recognizes eight dental specialties.
Graduates may enter specialty programs by taking the DUS (Dentistry Specialization Exam) and completing 3–4 years of postgraduate clinical training.

Is dentistry a profession that can be practiced abroad?

In many countries, yes. However, requirements vary by country and may include equivalency procedures, additional exams, or adaptation programs.

How is the faculty’s curriculum aligned with ADEE standards?

The curriculum is structured in accordance with the learning outcomes defined by the Association for Dental Education in Europe (ADEE). It meets European standards in areas such as clinical competence, professionalism, ethics, and patient safety.

How is digital dentistry taught within the program?

Technologies such as CAD/CAM systems, digital scanners, advanced simulation tools, and digital prosthodontics workflows are integrated into both preclinical and clinical training. Students learn these applications systematically as part of the curriculum.

How is clinical competence assessed?

Students are evaluated through structured clinical examinations (including OSCE-type assessments), case analyses, clinical performance records, and end-of-term competency exams.

What educational opportunities do preclinical laboratories provide?

Preclinical labs include simulation units, phantom heads, model teeth, prosthodontic workbenches, and modern dental instruments, enabling students to build their skills progressively before entering the clinic.

What role does the university’s dental hospital play in clinical training?

Lokman Hekim Dental Hospital exposes students to a diverse patient population and real clinical workflows. All diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are performed under the supervision of faculty members.

Are there opportunities for research and academic projects?

Yes. Students can participate in research groups, faculty-led studies, scientific clubs, university research centers, and national or international conferences through abstracts, posters, and project work.

What international training and internship opportunities are offered?

Students can benefit from Erasmus+ exchange programs, bilateral agreements, international summer schools, and short-term clinical internships, allowing them to gain experience in Europe and beyond.

What entrepreneurship and innovation opportunities are available?

Through LHUSTEK, students may engage in health-technology projects, digital dentistry innovations, entrepreneurship programs, and research-based product development. Mentorship is provided for students who may wish to establish their own clinics or develop new healthcare solutions.