On Saturday 29 November 2025, the Royal College of Surgeons of England once again provided a prestigious and historic setting for the Smile Dental Academy Graduation Ceremony.
With over 120 graduates celebrated on the day, the event marked another major milestone in postgraduate dental education, bringing together clinicians, educators, regulators, and leaders from across the profession to recognise excellence, dedication, and clinical achievement.
The ceremony welcomed an exceptional panel of dignitaries, reflecting the academy’s standing within UK dentistry. Among those in attendance were Tom Whiting, chief executive officer of the General Dental Council, and Dr Shamir Mehta, lead clinical advisor at the GDC.
The event was further strengthened by the presence of Dr Roshini Karia, president of the College of General Dentistry; Dr Nicola Gore, vice president of the college; and Dr Abhi Pal, past president, alongside Dr Sara Hurley, former chief dental officer for England.
The event also welcomed international best selling author Dr Rana Al-Falaki, programme director for the Diploma in Coaching, Mentoring and Education, as well as Neil Carmichael, former member of Parliament and executive chair of the Association of Dental Groups.
Dr Sumair Khan, implant programme director at Smile Dental Academy, also joined the celebrations. The ceremony was hosted by Smile Dental Academy’s Dr Jin Vaghela and Dr Kish Patel.
Raising standards in dentistry through quality education
Graduates from across Smile Dental Academy’s diploma programmes were recognised, representing a wide spectrum of postgraduate training pathways. These programmes continue to focus on developing confident, ethical, and highly skilled clinicians through a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, structured mentoring, and real world clinical experience. The diversity of graduates reflected the academy’s inclusive approach to education, supporting dentists and wider dental professionals at different stages of their careers.
Smile Dental Academy has continued to build its reputation as one of the UK’s leading postgraduate training providers. The academy is driven by a clear vision: to raise standards in dentistry through high quality education, mentorship, and clinical excellence. The graduation ceremony was a powerful reflection of this mission, celebrating not just qualifications, but personal and professional growth.
Central to the academy’s success are its diploma programmes, all of which prioritise practical, patient focused training. Delegates treat patients at the academy’s training centre under the close supervision of an experienced and diverse teaching faculty. With the largest lecturing faculty in the UK, comprising leaders at the forefront of their respective disciplines, Smile Dental Academy ensures that graduates leave with both technical excellence and clinical confidence. This structured, supportive approach prepares clinicians to deliver high quality care from day one.
Support throughout the learning journey remains a defining feature of the academy. Delegates benefit from regular online case clinics, mentoring and coaching, and access to one to one guidance from faculty. This framework creates a collaborative learning environment, encouraging reflection, discussion, and continuous improvement. Graduates frequently cite this level of support as a key factor in their development, both clinically and professionally.
Education, integrity and lifelong learning
The ceremony itself was elevated by a series of thoughtful and inspiring addresses from leading figures within dentistry. Speakers reflected on professionalism, regulation, leadership, and the evolving responsibilities of modern clinicians. Collectively, their messages reinforced the importance of education, integrity, and lifelong learning in shaping the future of the profession.
A highlight of the afternoon was the recognition of outstanding clinical work produced by graduates. Selected cases demonstrated advanced decision making, technical skill, and a strong commitment to patient centred care. These presentations served as a reminder of the high standards expected of Smile Dental Academy graduates and the calibre of training delivered throughout the programmes.
The conferring of diplomas was a moment of pride and celebration, shared by graduates, their families, and faculty members. As each graduate crossed the stage, the atmosphere within the Royal College reflected not only individual achievement, but a collective commitment to excellence within dentistry.
Following the formal proceedings, guests enjoyed afternoon tea within the college, offering an opportunity for reflection, networking, and celebration. Conversations flowed between graduates, educators, regulators, and industry leaders, reinforcing the strong sense of community that defines Smile Dental Academy.
The Smile Dental Academy Graduation 2025 stood as a testament to the academy’s continued impact on postgraduate dental education. The academy continues to shape confident, skilled, and forward thinking clinicians who are well equipped to meet the challenges of modern practice.
Recognition and progression
Smile Dental Academy also offers graduates significant international recognition and professional progression. The academy is PACE accredited, meaning that delegates’ work counts towards continuing education credits in the United States of America and Canada. In addition, eligible graduates can progress to associate fellowship of the College of General Dentistry, further strengthening their professional standing.
During the ceremony, Smile Academy fellow badges were formally presented, symbolising achievement, commitment to excellence, and ongoing connection to the academy’s professional community.
Smile Dental Academy provides structured progression routes from diploma level through to masters level MSc programmes. These pathways enable graduates to build on their clinical training with advanced academic study, research, and leadership development, supporting those who wish to progress into higher education, specialist interests, or senior clinical and educational roles.
As the class of 2025 moves forward in their professional journeys, they do so with advanced skills, strong values, and a clear commitment to excellence. The ceremony was not simply a celebration of qualifications, but a powerful affirmation of education, collaboration, and the shared responsibility of advancing dentistry for the benefit of patients and the profession alike.
This article is sponsored by Smile Dental Academy.
