Dentistry is a profession which involves of curing the health problems that afflict the mouth, teeth, gums and other soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. Dentists help people retain their appearance and health. It is a fact that Dentistry is changing quickly, creating many openings and challenges. Now days, dentists are assuming very significant roles in the whole system of healthcare. When the awareness about oral health increased and new fields like Periodontics, oral pathology and orthodontics was introduced, the scope of this field has been enhanced. In India, training in dentistry is through a 5 year course in Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), which includes 4 years of study and one year of internship. The Dental Council of India regulates the Dental education in India.

Qualifying Exam

Candidates need a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) to practice as a dentist. There is no specialization there at the bachelor level. The BDS is a 4-year course which is followed by a requisite one year of rotating internship. After graduation, candidates may pursue the PG in Master of Dental Surgery (MDS).

Other Courses in Dentistry are

• Dental Hygienist Certificate Course
• Dental Mechanic Certificate Course
• Diploma Course in Dental Assistance.

PG training is for three years in a specialized subject. The Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) course is offered in the following subjects –

• Prosthodontics
• Periodontics
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics
• Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics
• Oral Pathology & Microbiology
• Community Dentistry
• Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry
• Oral Medicine Diagnosis and Radiology.

Selections of the candidates to the PG courses are through state/national entrance examinations. In addition to this, 2 years certificate courses are offered in Dental Hygiene and Dental Mechanics

Who is eligible to apply?

Candidates who have passed their 10+2 with physics, chemistry and biology, with a minimum of 50% marks are eligible to apply for admission in the BDS course. It has a four-year duration followed by internship of one year. The All India Entrance Examination (AIEE) conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is general for both the BDS and the MBBS courses. The candidates are selected on the basis of the base marks obtained in the examination. Based on merit scored by the candidates, the institutions are allocated.

How to prepare for the exam and interview.

Candidates should be quick in manual and diagnostic skills. They also require a good visual memory and exceptional skills in judgment. They must be able to make quick, synchronized movements of both hands to grasp, assemble or manipulate objects with a scientific knack. Good senses in business, self-discipline, and first-rate communication skills will also help dentists who are self employed go a long way.