Key Points Summary

• The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) is the sole regulatory body for dental practitioners in Kenya
• Dentists must hold a recognized Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from an accredited institution
• All practitioners require annual practicing licenses renewed before January 31st each year
• Foreign-trained dentists must undergo credential evaluation and may need to pass additional examinations
• Registration involves provisional and full registration stages with specific requirements for each
• KMPDC Contact: Email - info@medicalboard.co.ke | Phone: +254-20-2726300/2720400

Practicing dentistry in Kenya requires adherence to strict regulatory standards designed to protect public health and maintain professional excellence. Understanding the licensing requirements and procedures is essential for any dental professional seeking to practice in the country.

The Regulatory Authority

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) serves as the primary licensing and regulatory body for all dental practitioners in Kenya. Established under the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (Cap 253), the KMPDC is responsible for registering qualified dentists, regulating professional conduct, and ensuring that practitioners meet the required standards of education and competence. The council operates independently to safeguard public interest while promoting ethical dental practice across the nation.

Educational Requirements

To qualify for dental licensure in Kenya, candidates must possess a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree or its equivalent from a recognized and accredited institution. The KMPDC maintains a list of approved universities both locally and internationally. Kenyan universities offering accredited dental programs include the University of Nairobi, Moi University, and several other institutions whose curricula meet international standards.

For dentists trained abroad, additional verification processes apply. Foreign qualifications undergo rigorous evaluation to ensure they meet Kenyan standards. In some cases, foreign-trained dentists may be required to sit for supplementary examinations or complete additional training before receiving full recognition.

Registration Process

The registration process involves two main stages: provisional registration and full registration. Graduates from recognized Kenyan institutions first apply for provisional registration, which allows them to practice under supervision during their internship period, typically lasting one year. This internship must be completed at KMPDC-approved facilities where new dentists gain practical experience under qualified supervisors.

Upon successful completion of the internship and submission of required documentation including logbooks and supervisor reports, dentists become eligible for full registration. This grants them the authority to practice independently throughout Kenya. The application requires submission of academic certificates, internship completion certificates, identification documents, and payment of prescribed fees.

Annual Practicing License

Registration with the KMPDC is distinct from the annual practicing license. Even after full registration, all dental practitioners must obtain and renew their practicing licenses annually. The licensing year runs from January 1st to December 31st, with renewals due before January 31st each year. Practicing without a valid license constitutes a professional offense and may result in penalties including fines and suspension.

The annual license renewal process requires practitioners to submit proof of continuous professional development (CPD), demonstrate good standing with no pending disciplinary cases, and pay the annual retention fees. The KMPDC has increasingly emphasized CPD as a requirement, ensuring dentists remain updated on current best practices and emerging technologies.

Contact Information and Support

Aspiring and practicing dentists can reach the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council through multiple channels. The council's head office is located in Nairobi along Bishops Road. For inquiries, practitioners can email info@medicalboard.co.ke or call +254-20-2726300 or +254-20-2720400. The KMPDC website provides downloadable application forms, updated fee structures, and comprehensive guidelines for various registration categories.

Obtaining and maintaining a dental license in Kenya involves meeting stringent educational standards, completing required internships, and committing to ongoing professional development. The KMPDC's regulatory framework ensures that only qualified and competent practitioners serve the Kenyan public, maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the dental profession.