As the oldest and largest Surgical Royal College in the world, the Edinburgh College has been at the forefront of surgical and dental innovation and progression for over 500 years. Throughout this time, it has promoted learned practice; training; and developing, setting and upholding professional standards. This presentation will review the contribution the College has made globally to the practice of dentistry, highlight its present contribution to supporting and promoting excellence for the whole dental team including career development, and discuss future initiatives to enhance the profession.