Are you passionate about promoting healthy smiles, treating dental diseases, or pursuing a career in oral surgery? A qualification in Dentistry or Oral Health opens doors to one of the most respected and high-demand fields in healthcare. South Africa’s top universities offer world-class programmes that blend science, clinical training, and patient care.
Here’s your 2026 guide to the top South African universities offering Dentistry and Oral Health degrees:
1. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) – Gauteng
School: School of Dentistry
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
- Bachelor of Dental Therapy (BDentTher)
- Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (BOralHyg)
Why Choose SMU?
SMU is one of South Africa’s leading health-focused institutions, offering comprehensive dentistry programmes with advanced clinical training. With access to state-of-the-art dental clinics and community outreach programmes, students gain both technical and patient care experience.
2. University of the Western Cape (UWC) – Western Cape
Faculty: Dentistry
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
- Bachelor of Oral Health (BOral Health)
Why Choose UWC?
UWC’s Faculty of Dentistry is internationally recognised and offers innovative, research-driven training. The university integrates early clinical exposure, community-based dental education, and access to one of the most modern dental schools in Africa.
3. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Gauteng
Faculty: Health Sciences
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS)
- Diploma and Postgraduate Studies in Oral Health Sciences
Why Choose Wits?
Wits Dentistry is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country. It offers a well-rounded curriculum covering orthodontics, oral pathology, and restorative dentistry—supported by extensive clinical training and access to public health dentistry initiatives.
What You’ll Study in Dentistry & Oral Health:
- Oral Anatomy & Physiology
- Dental Radiography
- Restorative & Preventive Dentistry
- Periodontology & Oral Surgery
- Orthodontics & Prosthodontics
- Community Oral Health
Career Opportunities:
- Dentist (General or Specialist)
- Oral Hygienist
- Dental Therapist
- Orthodontist (with further study)
- Public Health Oral Practitioner
- Dental Researcher or Lecturer