Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
The BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) stands as a prominent and sought-after degree for aspiring dentists in India, equivalent to the esteemed MBBS qualification. It is the sole educational and professional program for dental surgery, conferring the “Dr” title. Typically the second choice after MBBS, the four-year academic curriculum, followed by a mandatory one-year internship, prepares students extensively in dentures, dental issues, and surgery.
The BDS degree opens avenues in hospitals, pharmaceuticals, and medical device manufacturing, making it a lucrative career path. Graduates are qualified dentists, crucial in preventing, diagnosing, and treating dental ailments. Pursuing BDS requires enthusiasm, hard work, and a focused mindset. Accredited by the Dental Council of India, this course is increasingly in demand among students entering the medical field after 12th grade. In essence, BDS not only represents academic accomplishment but also a gateway to a challenging and rewarding role in dental healthcare.
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Course Duration:
The BDS is a comprehensive 5-year undergraduate degree program, comprising 4 years of academic education and a mandatory 1-year internship. Available in both full-time and part-time formats, it stands as one of the most sought-after courses in the medical field after completing the 12th grade. Numerous esteemed universities in India offer the BDS course.
This program encompasses fundamental subjects such as human anatomy, physiology & biochemistry, dental materials, prosthodontics, microbiology, embryology & histology, general & dental pharmacology and pathology, periodontics, pedodontics, orthodontics, and dentistry. It provides a well-rounded education, preparing students for the diverse aspects of dental practice. The BDS course, with its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensures graduates are equipped to excel in the field of dentistry.
Eligibility Criteria:
Students eligible for the BDS course must have completed the 10+2 examination with a science stream, including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English. This five-year program offers hands-on training in dentistry, allowing students to gain practical knowledge and interact with patients.
To qualify, students need to secure a minimum of 50% marks (40% for reserved categories) in the 12th-grade examination. Additionally, they must participate in an entrance examination conducted by the relevant authorities. This ensures a competitive selection process, aligning with the rigorous academic and practical requirements of the BDS program. Successful completion of these criteria opens the gateway for aspiring individuals to embark on a fulfilling journey in the field of dentistry.
Admission:
BDS admissions are typically through national or university-level entrance exams, with NEET 2020 being a prominent choice. Following exam clearance, candidates undergo a counseling process where seats are allocated based on rank, preferences, and seat availability. India boasts over 292 dental colleges, such as the Dental College & Hospital in Banglore, providing quality education. These institutions contribute significantly to the training of dental professionals, making them pivotal in the country’s healthcare landscape.
- Dental College & Hospital, Mumbai
- Dental College, Gujarat
- Government Dental College & Research Institute, Bengaluru
- Amrita College of Dentistry, Kerala
- Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi
- Faculty of Dental Science, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow
- Dental College, Thiruvananthapuram
- Govt. Dental College & Hospital, Andhra Pradesh
Career & Jobs
Upon completing the BDS course, graduates earn the right to use the title “Dr.” as a prefix to their name. Dentistry offers abundant job opportunities and avenues for higher education, ensuring a 100% job placement rate. Pursuing a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) allows graduates to specialize in various disciplines within dentistry, while those inclined towards research can opt for a Doctor of Philosophy program.
BDS graduates can explore teaching careers in top dental colleges, progressing from professors to Heads of Department (HOD) and even Deans. The profession spans imaging, tissue graft, implants, laser surgery, and trauma, with employment opportunities in medical colleges, hospitals, nursing homes, health corporations, and government health ministries.
Additionally, graduates can establish their own dental clinics or work as dentists in both government and private hospitals, showcasing the diverse and rewarding paths available in the field of dentistry.
Scope
The Job Profiles of the BDS may be the following:
- Dentist Dental Surgeon
- Endodontic
- Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologist
- Oral Surgery
- Orthodontics
- Pedodontics
- Periodontics
- Prosthodontics
Some employment areas for BDS aspirants are:
- Dental Clinics
- Hospitals
- Educational Institutions
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Dental Products Manufactures
- Private Practice