The undergraduate course lasts for 5 years. The three dental schools are part of the Colleges of Medicine:
University of Helsinki
University of Oulu
University of Turku

The primary degree which may be included in the register is Licentiate in Odontology (hammaslääketieteen lisensiaatti, HLL). Graduates can only register in Finland when they have completed 9 months' salaried, supervised training, working as a dentist under the supervision of an experienced dentist.

There is a minimum of 2 years pre-training (working as a dentist after basic education), before entering specialist training. Training lasts for 3 years (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 6 years) and includes a University examination. The 4 main specialties are Orthodontics, Dental Public Health, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Clinical Dentistry.
To become a Doctor in Odontology a thesis (like a PhD) must be completed.

Practising dentistry in Finland