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Unlock the secrets to a career in dentistry with our guide on how to become a dentist, from educational requirements to practical experience.
We trust dentists for our oral health and for giving us beautiful smiles. In India, the demand for skilled and compassionate dentists has steadily increased. The need for dentists spans urban centers, rural communities, and underserved areas. This presents a wealth of opportunities for aspiring students dreaming of practicing dentistry. So, students must clearly understand how to become a dentist.
Adults and children in India need dental fillings, root canals, and extractions. It is due to a high occurrence of dental cavities. Oral cancer cases have increased as a result of lifestyle variables. These include tobacco and alcohol use, demanding early detection and treatment by dentists. As the population grows and ages, such issues become more prevalent.
These issues range from routine oral care to complex treatments. Dentists are experts at addressing diverse dental needs. They ensure the well-being and confidence of their patients. It can range from routine check-ups and cleanings to restorative procedures. These include orthodontics and cosmetic treatments. Thus, increases the need for the study of dentistry. In this guide we will delve into the question how to become a dentist and the qualifications of dentists.
How to become a dentist is a question that gets asked frequently.‘Becoming a dentist is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. By following these steps, you can lay a solid foundation and embark on a fulfilling dental career.
To pursue a career in dentistry, focusing on these subjects is beneficial. These subjects will provide the foundational knowledge needed for a dental degree. Different dental schools have require specific subjects such as
After completing the 12th, prepare for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). This exam accepts students for dental degrees. To be a dentist, one must pursue a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program. This is a 5-year undergraduate program. Various dental colleges and universities across India offer this program. Admission to BDS programs is based on your performance in the entrance examinations. It also depends on the centralized counseling process conducted by respective authorities. The BDS program includes both theoretical coursework and clinical training. The curriculum covers subjects such as:
You will then undergo a one-year internship at a recognized dental college. It provides practical exposure to different dental requirement and specialisations.
You can pursue a Master of Dental Surgery program after BDS. This is vital if you wish to specialize in a specific area of dentistry. It provides in-depth knowledge and advanced clinical training in specific dental specialties. It is a 3-year program. It includes both coursework and clinical training in the chosen dental specialization.
Candidates will be eligible for MDS if they own a 2 years PG diploma recognized by the Dental Council of India.
In India, there are many diploma programs in dentistry offering specialized training. These diploma courses offer an alternative pathway for students. It helps them gain practical skills without pursuing a BDS or MDS program.
Eligibility: Students must pass Class 12th with 50% marks. They must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biochemistry in +2. To pursue a postgraduate dental diploma, one must have the following:
This is only a sample of the diploma programs in dentistry offered in India; it is not an exhaustive list. There are around 50 colleges in India offering UG diploma courses.
MDS offers various specializations in dentistry. Common specializations in dentistry, along with the salary of dentists in India, are:
These surgeons are experts in jaw, face, and mouth operations. Procedures include tooth extractions, dental implants, jaw surgeries, and treatment of oral diseases. Salary range- 6 to 15 lakhs per year
They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists use braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances to align and straighten teeth. The salary range is 4 to 10 lakhs per year.
They specialize in the restoration and replacement of missing teeth with dental prostheses. They use crowns, bridges, and dentures. Prosthodontists specialize in creating and fitting dental prostheses. These include dentures, dental implants, and dental crowns or bridges. Salary range- 4 to 10 lakhs per year.
Periodontists specialize in managing conditions like gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Salary range- 4 to 8 lakhs per year.
They specialize in preserving and restoring teeth, including root canal treatments. Endodontists specialize in performing root canal treatments and saving infected or damaged teeth. Salary range- 4 to 8 lakhs per year.
These specialists diagnose and manage oral diseases and disorders. They achieve this through clinical examination and radiographic imaging. Salary range- 4 to 8 lakhs per year.
Pediatric dentists are specialists in children’s oral health care. These include preventative care, pediatric dental issues, and behavior management. Salary range- 4 to 8 lakhs per year.
Oral pathologists specialize in the diagnosis and study of oral and maxillofacial regions. Salary range- 4 to 8 lakhs per year.
Average salary of a dentist depends on many things. These include experience, region, practice style, and specialty demand. Thus, theaverage salary of a dentist in Indiais subject to variation. It depends on the number of patients and the dentist’s experience level. The table below shows the average salary of a Dentist in India:
Specialization | Salary Range per year (in INR) |
General Dentistry | 2 – 8 lakhs |
Orthodontics | 4 – 8 lakhs |
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | 6 – 12 lakhs |
Periodontology | 4 – 6 lakhs |
Prosthodontics | 5 – 8 lakhs |
Conservative Dentistry | 4 – 8 lakhs |
Oral Medicine and Radiology | 4 – 8 lakhs |
Pediatric Dentistry | 4 – 6 lakhs |
Oral Pathology | 3 – 5 lakhs |
Dentists owning private practices have the potential to earn higher incomes. Those employed in government hospitals, dental colleges, and corporate healthcare setups don’t. Salary figures can vary. Metropolitan cities tend to offer higher salaries compared to rural regions.
The career prospects for dentists are promising. They offer numerous opportunities for growth and success. There are various jobs for Dentists in India. While some popular career paths are mentioned below, it is not limited to that. Dentists can also explore many other avenues. These include dental consulting, insurance, education, and entrepreneurship. Somejobs for dentists in India are:
Dentists have promising job possibilities that provide a rewarding career. It is filled with financial security and room for growth. It also can positively impact people’s lives.
Being a dentist in India takes persistence, commitment, and enthusiasm for oral wellness. Dentists have a positive impact on people’s dental health and general well-being. Aspirants can begin a satisfying career in dentistry when given the proper guidance. Throughout their journey, students should stay updated with the latest developments in dentistry. They should actively participate in dental conferences, workshops, and seminars. They need to enhance their knowledge and skills continuously. Thus, studyingfor dentistry is not an easy task. Networking with experienced dentists and seeking mentorship can provide valuable guidance and support. Now that you have a clear picture of how to become a Dentist in India, it’s time to kick-start your study for dentistry.
Evaluate numerous career choices to choose the right career path for yourself. Dive in to our guide on Career Advice.
It takes 5 years to become a dentist. The undergraduate dental program, BDS, spans 5 years. Students are eligible to practice as dentists after completion of the BDS program. The Master of Dental Surgery takes an extra 3 years to complete. The total time required to become a dentist, including BDS and MDS, is approximately 8 years.
No, obtaining an MBBS is not necessary to work as a dentist. The road to a dentistry career in India is distinct from one that leads to becoming a doctor of medicine. MBBS is not required to become a dentist in India. But aspiring dentists need to complete the BDS program. This is to be followed by optional specialization through the MDS program. This will help students advance their careers in specific dental disciplines.
Yes, NEET is required for admission to dental colleges in India. It serves as the qualifying exam for admissions to undergraduate BDS programs. These include government and private colleges. Thus, clearing NEET-UG and obtaining a good score is essential for students. It is great for those aspiring to pursue a dental career in India and secure admission to BDS programs.
Generally, in India, doctors with an MBBS degree tend to earn more than those with a BDS degree. But an individual’s earning potential can vary significantly. This is based on several factors. These include experience, expertise, patient volume, and demand for specific specialties. Ultimately, the earning of both MBBS and BDS graduates depend on different factors.
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