Book review

How often have you been asked to provide advice on a career in dentistry and the selection of dental schools to include in an application for university entrance? If, in common with most colleagues, your answer is ‘on a regular basis’, and in giving advice you are uncertain about specific details, or where to direct ‘wannabe’ dentists, and possibly their parents for up-to-date information, then CU@DENTALSKL – a guide to UK dental schools and dentistry as a career can come to your rescue.

CU@DENTALSKL, the only comprehensive guide to a career in dentistry and dental schools in the UK, has just been republished as an expanded up-to-date second edition. Having proved very popular with those aspiring to embark on a career in dentistry, the book has also found great favour in school and sixth form libraries, as well as on the shelves of careers advisors. This generously illustrated, handsomely produced guide, over and above fulfilling its primary purpose, provides valuable insight into the different emphases and characteristics of the various primary dental degree programmes presently available in the UK. The typical reaction of established practitioners to the information about curricula and illustrations of dental school facilities included in the guide is: ‘Well, it certainly wasn't like that in my day’. Dental education and dental schools have certainly changed in recent years, and in no small measure. As may be gleaned from even an initial skim through CU@DENTALSKL, future generations of professional colleagues are clearly being educated and trained in attractive, modern and innovative facilities that are fit for purpose – an increasing number of which are in outreach community settings. What has been achieved by the Deans and Heads of dental schools in the UK in recent years, working in partnership with their universities, NHS Trusts, the Departments of Health and other stakeholders is remarkable and most commendable.