Dentistry

Postgraduate in Dentistry in Malaysia

After completing BDS/DDS and compulsory service, dentists who wish to become specialists must pursue postgraduate clinical training at Master’s level. These programs develop advanced skills in specific areas such as Orthodontics, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Restorative Dentistry, and more. They are regulated by the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC) and most are offered by public universities, especially UM, UKM, USM, and UiTM.

Master’s dental specialization programmes combine advanced theory, surgical or clinical training, research, and independent patient management. Trainees diagnose complex cases, manage surgical procedures, design treatment plans, handle interdisciplinary dental care, interpret advanced radiographs, and provide specialized oral healthcare for diverse populations including children, special needs patients, trauma cases, and medically compromised patients.

Unlike research-based Master’s degrees, these programmes are clinical and practice-based, requiring rigorous hands-on patient treatment under experienced specialists. Entry is competitive and typically requires excellent clinical records, interviews, and sometimes entrance exams. Upon completion, graduates must register as specialists with MDC to practice as certified specialists in Malaysia.

These programs lead to high-demand careers in hospitals, specialist dental clinics, universities, and private practices. Specialists often earn higher income and may become consultants, clinical educators, researchers, or open specialist clinics.

Duration of Postgraduate in Dentistry in Malaysia

Some fields offer fellowships such as maxillofacial trauma, implant dentistry, cleft surgeries, or forensic odontology. 

Entry Requirements of Postgraduate in Dentistry in Malaysia

• Completed BDS/DDS from an accredited institution
• Full MDC Registration
• Minimum 1–2 years clinical experience after compulsory service
• Good patient portfolio and strong recommendation letters
• Pass interview, clinical test, or written exam (depending on programme)
• Must demonstrate ethical conduct, manual dexterity, and academic capability

Additional requirement for some specialties:

• Medical fitness for oral surgery or sedation-based fields

Tuition Fee of Postgraduate in Dentistry in Malaysia

Fees vary based on specialty, complexity (e.g., surgery costs more), and clinical resources. 

Top Universities for Postgraduate in Dentistry in Malaysia

Public Universities

• Universiti Malaya (UM) – Most specialties including surgery
• Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) – Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, Endodontics, etc.
• Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) – Restorative, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics
• Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) – Prosthodontics, Pediatric, Endodontics, Periodontics

Private Universities (Limited Specialty Programs)

• International Medical University (IMU) – Postgraduate diplomas & selected Master’s
• MAHSA University – Selected specialist pathways & research Master’s
• SEGi University – PG Diplomas and some specialist development tracks

Career Opportunities of Postgraduate in Dentistry in Malaysia

Graduates of a Master in Dentistry can pursue advanced roles such as:

• Dental Specialist (Orthodontist, Periodontist, Prosthodontist, etc.)
• Consultant Dentist / Specialist Practitioner
• Hospital Dental Specialist
• Academic Lecturer / Clinical Educator
• Dental Research Scientist
• Public Health Dentist
• Clinical Director / Dental Practice Owner
• Policy Advisor in Oral Health Services
• Specialist in Aesthetic or Implant Dentistry

Specialist registration is subject to national regulatory body requirements.