Dentistry is an important part of the health service. It offers a rewarding and worthwhile career to anyone who has an interest in and a concern for the needs of people, an even temperament and a sense of precision. As a profession Dentistry gives an unusual opportunity to contribute to appearance, well-being and general health. One of its great attractions is its emphasis on caring for people and encouraging them to find the means to care for themselves.?

The Dental Council of New Zealand requires all dentists to register to practise in New Zealand. The minimum qualification is the degree of Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from the University of Otago. Graduates in Dentistry from the University of Otago, which has New Zealand's only School of Dentistry, enjoy an excellent reputation internationally. Their acceptance for practice and postgraduate study in overseas countries is high and many New Zealand graduates hold senior academic and hospital posts abroad.