BDS IN INDIA

BDS Highlights

The 5-year BDS course (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) is the only recognised professional Dental course in India and is a prerequisite education for people who want to work as dentists in public or private hospitals. 

Candidates can refer to the table below to learn more about the BDS course and the essential points listed below.

All About BDS

BDS full form in medical is Bachelor of Dental Surgery. BDS degree is a 5-year UG course which is designed to train students to become dental surgeons or dentists. The BDS degree curriculum typically covers a wide range of subjects related to dentistry, including dental anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, oral pathology, microbiology, dental materials, and clinical dentistry. 

Throughout the BDS degree, students receive theoretical knowledge as well as practical training in dental clinics and laboratories. They learn about dental procedures, oral health care, diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient management. The duration of a BDS degree course varies depending on the country, but it usually spans around five years, including both academic study and clinical training.

Upon successful completion of the BDS degree and meeting the necessary licensing requirements, graduates can practice dentistry independently or pursue further specialization through postgraduate studies in various fields of dentistry such as orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, or pediatric dentistry.

Why Study BDS?

• Career Opportunities: BDS course graduates become licensed dentists and can practice dentistry in various settings such as private clinics, hospitals, community health centres, and even in research and academia. 
• Healthcare Profession: Dentistry is a vital component of the healthcare industry. As a dentist, professionals play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, preventing dental diseases, and improving the overall well-being of patients.
• Variety of Specializations: Within the BDS course, there are various specializations like orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and more. BDS course allows one to focus on areas that align with their interests and strengths.
• Continuous Learning: BDS course is a field that constantly evolves due to advancements in technology, techniques, and research. This ensures that the learning journey will be ongoing, making the profession intellectually stimulating.
• Financial Reward: Dentists often enjoy competitive salaries, which can improve over time with experience and specialization. This financial stability can provide one with a comfortable lifestyle.
• Job Flexibility: Dentists have the flexibility to work as sole practitioners, join group practices, or even work in public health settings. This flexibility can allow one to find a work environment that suits their preferences and work-life balance.

BDS vs MBBS

A completely separate course from MBBS is BDS. It is difficult to compare the two as a result.

The acronym MBBS, or Bachelor of Surgery or Bachelor of Medicine, is frequently used. The most popular undergraduate medical programme in India is called MBBS, and it is also one of the best ways to become a medical doctor here. BDS is a typical abbreviation for the degree in Bachelor of Dental Surgery. In India, BDS is the most popular degree programme for those who want to pursue a career in Dentistry after high school. 

Candidates can look at the table below to see the comparison between the two courses.

BDS Eligibility Criteria 

BDS course (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) eligibility criteria can vary depending on the country and educational institution you’re considering. However, a general overview of the common eligibility criteria for BDS courses in many colleges:

• Candidates should have passed Class 12 with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
• They must have scored at least 50 per cent marks in Class 12
• Qualifying for the NEET is compulsory

BDS Entrance Exams 2024

Candidates who want to get admission to the BDS course have to qualify for the BDS entrance test.

The NTA releases an online application form. Candidates have to fill out the form by the given deadline and appear for the NEET for admission to the undergraduate BDS course. The exam is held once a year in computer-based mode. Scoring the minimum cutoff is one of the criteria for participating in NEET Counselling.

For the BDS course, seats are allocated based on rank, choice filled by the candidate, availability of seats, and reservation criteria.

BDS Syllabus

The BDS course (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) syllabus covers a wide range of topics related to Dentistry, medical sciences, clinical skills, and professional development.

The exact syllabus can vary between institutions, but here’s a general overview of the subjects and topics commonly included in a BDS course.

Types of BDS Courses

The Dental Council of India stipulates that the BDS course shall be earned over four academic years, with 240 teaching days per year and a year of compensated rotating internship in a licenced Dental college. All applicants will be required to finish a one-year paid rotating internship after passing the last BDS exam.

The BDS course is granted following successful completion of the BDS test and a one-year compensated internship. The applicants pursuing their 5th year BDS Course  must complete their theory in 4 (four) disciplines with 160 Lecture hours in 6 months as follows:

BDS Subjects and Lecture Hours

The subjects and lecture hours in a BDS course (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) program can vary between institutions. However, a general overview of the common BDS course subjects and their approximate lecture hours that are typically included are mentioned below.

Keep in mind that these hours are approximate and can vary based on the institution’s specific curriculum design for the BDS course.

The following table mentions the BDS course subjects with their lecture hours:

BDS Course Fees

For graduates to broaden their knowledge in both practical and theoretical areas, which will help them acquire a better career in the future, the subjects presented in the BDS course curriculum are crucial and necessary.

For graduates with outstanding income packages, there is a considerable demand for BDS positions in India and overseas. Graduates of the BDS course can advance their careers in a variety of fields, including Medicine and Dental Science, in numerous private and public hospitals around the world.

Candidates can look at the Top colleges along with their BDS course fees mentioned in the table below:

Top Dental Colleges Based on NIRF ’23

The NIRF rankings are typically released annually by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and they assess various institutions in India based on several parameters, including teaching, learning, and resources, research and professional practices, graduation outcomes, outreach and inclusivity, and perception.

Candidates can check the list of top Dental Colleges based on NIRF Ranking 2023 along with their BDS course fees in the table below.

BDS Course Fees in Government Colleges 

15 government colleges offer BDS courses in India. KGMU, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Institute of Medical Sciences, and Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences are some of the top government colleges that offer BDS courses.

BDS Course Fees in Private Colleges 

 Christian Medical College, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, and Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research are some of the top private colleges that offer BDS courses.

Candidates can check private colleges along with their BDS course fees in the table below: 

BDS Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

The paradigm of healthcare is expanding due to an increase in diseases which has led to the demand for quality and hassle-free medical services. Healthcare professionals who have in-depth knowledge of the field are always in demand. Oral health is one of the primary concerns of people, especially in urban areas.

The BDS course offers a wide range of options to professionals. Graduates in BDS course can choose to work in both the government and private sectors.

In the government sector, the BDS course professionals can work in the Defence Service, Indian Railway or opt for state government jobs. In the private sector, BDS course professionals are easily recruited by hospitals, dental clinics, pharmaceutical companies, and dental product manufacturers.

BDS Core Industries

After finishing a 5-year degree BDS course, some of the BDS graduates open their clinics too.

BDS course graduates can even go for higher studies, i.e. pursue MDS. They can also choose related courses such as a Master in Health Administration or an MBA in Healthcare department.

The BDS course graduates can work in the following key areas:

BDS Top Recruiters

Students anticipate increased job opportunities in the foreseeable future. The government intends to give dentists better future career prospects by enhancing work opportunities, which explains the sharp rise in Dental practitioners and patients.

The top employers of BDS course graduates are shown below.

BDS course graduates are simple for hospitals and dental clinics to hire because they have a solid understanding of Dental-related issues. Higher education students have the option of eventually choosing to become lecturers in the classroom. Dental professionals are hired for a variety of positions based on their qualifications and skills.

The table below lists a few career descriptions for BDS course graduates along with their typical salaries:

What After BDS? 

After completing BDS in India, there are several options available for further career advancement or specialization:

• MDS (Master of Dental Surgery): Many BDS graduates opt to pursue a specialization through MDS. MDS allows for in-depth study and expertise in a particular area of dentistry.
• Clinical Practice: After BDS, one can choose to start their dental clinic or work in established dental clinics or hospitals. Gaining experience in clinical practice helps in honing skills and building a patient base.
• Government Jobs: There are opportunities for BDS graduates to work in government hospitals, health departments, and other public sector organizations. These positions may include dental surgeon roles in primary health centres, district hospitals, or dental colleges.
• Teaching and Research: Some BDS graduates can work as faculty members in dental colleges or universities, teaching and mentoring future dentists, as well as conducting research in dental sciences.
• Private Practice: Many BDS graduates choose to work in private dental clinics as associates or partners. This allows for flexibility in working hours and the potential for higher earnings based on the clientele and services offered.
• Dental Public Health: Graduates can work in the field of dental public health, focusing on promoting oral health and preventing dental diseases at the community level. This may involve working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations.    
• Further Studies: Apart from MDS, graduates can pursue further studies in related fields such as Hospital Management, Health Administration, Public Health, or Health Informatics. Candidates can go for courses such as Master of Public Health (MPH), Master in Health Administration, MBA in Healthcare Management, MBA in Hospitality Management, etc.