How to Pass the UK ORE Dental Exam: Complete 2025 Guide

If you’re a dentist who trained outside the UK and are aiming to practice in the United Kingdom, the Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) is your gateway to success. Administered by the General Dental Council (GDC), the ORE is a crucial licensure exam that ensures international dentists meet the UK’s clinical and professional standards. This ultimate guide will help you understand everything you need to know—from eligibility to passing strategies—to confidently navigate the ORE and step into your UK dental career.

What Is the ORE?

The Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) is designed to evaluate whether overseas-qualified dentists possess the necessary clinical skills and knowledge to practice safely in the UK. The exam is split into two parts:

• ORE Part 1: Focuses on applied clinical knowledge through multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
• ORE Part 2: Assesses hands-on clinical skills, communication, and practical aptitude.

Successfully passing both parts of the ORE grants eligibility to register with the GDC and legally practice as a dentist in the UK.

Who Needs to Take the ORE?

If you received your dental qualification outside the UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you’ll likely need to take the ORE unless:

• You are from a country with a reciprocal agreement (like some older Australian, New Zealand, or South African qualifications).
• You have specialist registration or temporary registration (e.g., academic or supervised roles).

Always check the GDC eligibility criteria directly, as exceptions are few and very specific.

Eligibility Requirements

To be accepted for the ORE, you must:

1. Hold a primary dental qualification that's recognized and equivalent to a UK BDS.
2. Demonstrate clinical experience (at least 1600 hours, excluding internships).
3. Prove your English language proficiency—commonly with IELTS (minimum 7.0 overall with no band below 6.5) or OET (score of B in all four components).
4. Provide proof of identity, registration, and fitness to practice.
5. Pay all necessary fees.

Understanding ORE Part 1: The Knowledge Exam

Structure

Part 1 of the ORE is a computer-based exam that tests clinical knowledge through:

• Paper A: Clinical dentistry (MCQs)
• Paper B: Clinical dentistry plus aspects of law, ethics, and health & safety

Each paper is three hours long and typically includes Single Best Answer (SBA) and Extended Matching Questions (EMQs).

Content Covered

• Restorative dentistry
• Oral surgery
• Paediatrics
• Orthodontics
• Radiology
• Pathology
• Law and ethics
• Cross-infection control
• Medical emergencies

Tips for Success in Part 1

1. Master the basics: Solid understanding of UK clinical guidelines is essential.
2. Use standard textbooks: Like “Oxford Handbook of Clinical Dentistry” and “MCQs for Dentistry.”
3. Mock exams: Practice under timed conditions to simulate the real exam.
4. Join study groups: Especially ones with candidates who recently passed.
5. Don’t skip ethics & law: These sections are often underestimated but can make or break your score.

Understanding ORE Part 2: The Clinical Exam

Once you pass Part 1, you’re eligible to take Part 2, which consists of four main components:

1. Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)

• 20 stations testing clinical reasoning, practical skills, and communication.
• Scenarios may include simulated patients, clinical judgment, consent taking, or explaining procedures.

2. Dental Manikin (DM)

• You’ll be asked to perform operative tasks on a dental manikin—such as class II cavity preparations and crown preparations.
• A true test of your hand skills under pressure.

3. Medical Emergencies (ME)

• You’ll need to demonstrate CPR and handle simulated medical emergencies.
• This includes oral questioning.

4. Diagnostic and Treatment Planning (DTP)

• You’ll be given radiographs, models, or patient histories to assess and plan treatment.
• Tests your ability to synthesize diagnostic data and formulate treatment.

Preparing for Part 2: Hands-on Mastery

1. Enroll in training courses: UK-based ORE Part 2 courses often provide mock OSCEs, manikin practice, and personalized feedback.
2. Understand NHS protocols: Learn how dentistry works within the National Health Service.
3. Refine your communication skills: Use role-playing to prepare for patient scenarios.
4. Polish your speed and accuracy: You’ll be timed—especially for manikin and OSCE stations.
5. Know your instruments and materials: You’ll need to be confident with UK-standard equipment.

Booking the Exam: Timeline and Fees

Booking Process

• ORE exams are not offered year-round and places are limited.
• Booking occurs through the GDC portal, and slots fill up very quickly—especially for Part 2.
• There’s often a waiting list, so be prompt and persistent.

Fees

• ORE Part 1 Fee: ~£806
• ORE Part 2 Fee: ~£2929
  Note: Fees are subject to annual changes

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Limited Exam Slots

• Solution: Stay updated on GDC announcements and set calendar reminders for opening dates.

High Pressure in Clinical Tasks

• Solution: Practice in simulated settings and seek real-time feedback.

Adjustment to UK Systems

• Solution: Immerse yourself in NHS workflows, documentation styles, and ethical guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many attempts are allowed?

A: You get four attempts at each part of the ORE.

Q: Is there a time limit to complete the exam?

A: Yes, you must complete both parts within five years of your first successful Part 1 attempt.

Q: Can I work in the UK while preparing?

A: Only in limited roles—like academic or non-clinical settings. You cannot practice dentistry without full GDC registration.

After Passing the ORE: What’s Next?

Congratulations! Once you’ve cleared both parts:

1. Apply for full registration with the GDC.
2. Begin the job hunt—dental positions in the NHS or private clinics.
3. Consider further training or specialization if desired.
4. Start building your professional UK dental career.

Final Thoughts: Is the ORE Worth It?

The ORE is undoubtedly a challenging, time-consuming, and costly process—but for many, it’s a life-changing pathway. It unlocks the opportunity to practice in a globally respected healthcare system, offering career stability and access to high-quality continuing education.

With focused preparation, the right guidance, and a structured study plan, you can pass the ORE and start your UK dental journey with confidence.