Glasgow Dental Education Centre Celebrates 40 Years
On 3 November 2025, the Glasgow Dental Education Centre marks 40 years of providing postgraduate education to dental teams throughout Scotland. It was the first centre of its kind in the United Kingdom.
Foundation and Funding
The Glasgow Dental Educational Trust was founded in 1979 with funds raised during the centenary celebrations of the Glasgow Dental Hospital and School. The Trust also secured ongoing support from local health boards in the West of Scotland, supported by Margaret Lane, a Dental School graduate, alongside donations from dentists and local groups.
Purpose and Development
The Trust’s goal was to establish the UK's first postgraduate dental education facility. After a £0.5 million renovation, the ground floor of the Glasgow Dental Hospital and School was converted to create the new centre, initially called the West of Scotland Postgraduate Centre for Dental Education.
Official Opening and Mission
The centre officially opened on 3 November 1985. It was designed to provide education and training to general dental practitioners and postgraduate hospital staff. Initially, it operated independently under the Scottish Council for Postgraduate Medical and Dental Education.
"The centre officially opened on 3 November 1985, offering education and training to general dental practitioners and hospital postgraduate staff."
The Glasgow Dental Education Centre remains an essential institution supporting dental professional development across Scotland.
Author's summary: Glasgow Dental Education Centre, established as the UK's first postgraduate dental facility, celebrates 40 years of advancing dental training and education across Scotland.