For students with a passion for healthcare and an interest in dental care, choosing the right country to study dentistry can be just as important as the decision to pursue the career itself. Lithuania, a growing destination for international medical and dental students, offers a practical and rewarding path to becoming a dentist. But a common question many aspiring students ask is: How long does it take to become a dentist in Lithuania?
Let’s walk you through the full journey—from enrollment to graduation—along with what life is like as a dental student in this charming Baltic country.
The Duration of the Dentistry Programme in Lithuania
In Lithuania, dentistry is pursued as a degree. The whole dentistry course lasts five years. This format enables students to start their university studies immediately after graduating from their secondary schools, around the age of 18/19. The five-year course mixes academic learning with practical experience in the clinic. This means that when you graduate, you are already well prepared for practice. Here is how the timeline structured.
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Year-by-Year Breakdown
Years 1 & 2: Foundation and Theory
Basic medical sciences are learnt from first to second year. Students are taught subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology and histology. These materials are necessary in order to develop a thorough understanding of how a human body functions, something that is invaluable to any dentist. Dentistry-specific content also begins to be studied through the early years, with it featuring more during later years. Dental laboratory and instrumental procedure practicals begin early, enabling students to become familiar with dental equipment and lab processes.
Years 3 & 4: Clinical Skills and Hands-On Practice
In the third year, students begin working in clinical environments for more hours. You’ll start practising on simulators and receive supervised work experience with real patients. This practical training is one of the most crucial elements in dental education in Lithuania.
During this time, students study oral surgery, orthodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics and other specialties. Theory and clinical practice go hand in hand, helping bridge the gap between textbooks and real-life scenarios.
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Year 5: Advanced Practice and Final Exams
Year 5 is predominantly focused on clinical placements and practical training. Pupils shadowing practising dentists, treating patients under supervision and being given more clinical independence. These result in end-of-degree exams and presentation of a TFM or TFP. Upon fulfilment of these requirements, students are awarded an MFS Master’s degree in Odontology.
What Happens After Graduation?
After the five-year dentistry degree in Lithuania, you are a general dentist. Graduates are awarded a Master’s degree approved throughout the European Union and in other countries worldwide. If you wish to practise in Lithuania, you will need to be registered in the Lithuanian Dental Chamber and possibly also take a state examination. So if you plan to go back home, or to practise here or elsewhere, you’ll have to meet the licensing or registration requirements. The equivalent degree from most other EU countries, e.g. Portugal, France, Poland, etc., is accepted even with minimal or no additional requirements. Some graduates enrol in postgraduate studies, with a specialisation in oral surgery, orthodontics, or endodontics. These specialisations generally require an extra 2–4 years of coursework, depending on the country and degree.
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Language of Instruction and International Students
One of the main reasons why international students flock to study dentistry in Lithuania is due to the fact that the complete study programme is available in English. This has made it a fantastic destination for foreign students looking to get a European education without needing to learn a new language first. Institutions of higher education also offer courses teaching the Lithuanian language, as some command of the language is useful (if not compulsory) when dealing with Lithuanian patients in the clinical setting. Most students learn enough Lithuanian to communicate easily in the dental clinic.
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Universities Offering Dentistry in Lithuania
The two most famous universities where you can study dentistry in English in Lithuania:
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) – Situated in Kaunas, LSMU is the most significant medical and health sciences university in Lithuania. It has a good reputation and an increasing number of international students.
Vilnius University Faculty of Medicine – Located in the capital of the country, Vilnius University is amongst the oldest and most prestigious universities in Eastern Europe. It also provides a dentistry programme conducted entirely in English for foreign students.
Both institutions combine traditional academic learning with extensive practical experience, helping students develop strong clinical skills throughout their five-year journey.
Student Life and Living in Lithuania
Life as a student in Lithuania is not just about classes and clinics. The nation provides a quiet living environment for students at a low cost of living, encouraging safety. Its cost of living is cheaper than several Western European destinations, so studying here is light on the pocket. The students mostly live in university dormitories or shared apartments rented. Cities like Kaunas, as well as Vilnius, are famous for their history, culture as well as the welcoming environment for the students. Public transportation is cheap and convenient, and much of the population speaks English, especially in academic and urban areas.
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Is It Worth It?
In Lithuania, it takes five years to be a dentist, then you need licensing for whatever area you want to work. Yet the experience is about more than just a diploma. From high-quality academics and practical experience to global recognition and an attractive student lifestyle, Lithuania has it all. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to study high-quality dentistry in Europe but without the costly tuition or cost of living often associated with Western Europe. The course structure, the language of instruction, and the emphasis upon ’hands-on’ learning result in a popular option for students across the world.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering studying dentistry abroad, Lithuania offers a clear, structured, and supportive path to becoming a qualified dentist. In just 5 years’ time, you can be a professional in your dental career. With universities that are serious about studies, a learning environment fitted for the world, leisure just right for study and exploration, Lithuania might be the place for you in the future. We assist in every part of the process – from selecting the best University for your course, to your admission process. If you’re ready to take the first step on your journey to dentistry, we’re here to support you all the way.
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Start Your Journey to Dentistry in Lithuania with Study Medicine & Dentistry Abroad
If you’re passionate about dental care and considering studying dentistry abroad, Lithuania offers a unique opportunity to pursue your dreams. The five-year dentistry program provides a blend of theory and hands-on clinical experience, preparing you to become a skilled dentist. Whether you’re interested in learning in English or exploring a new culture, Lithuania is a fantastic destination.
Take the First Step Today!
At Study Medicine & Dentistry Abroad, we help guide students through the application process, ensuring that you select the best university for your dental studies. If you’re ready to start your dental career in Europe, contact us now and begin your journey to study dentistry abroad in Europe.
Let us support you every step of the way – from university selection to admission. Don’t miss out on the chance to become a dentist in just five years!
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