How to Become a Dentist?
Explore the path to becoming a dentist in India, from educational requirements to career opportunities, and find out which dental courses after 12th can kickstart your journey
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Dentist
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. And as a dentist, you have the privilege of transforming lives through the power of a smile." – Mahatma Gandhi
Dentists are medical professionals who offer advice and treatment for oral health, addressing issues with teeth, gums, and the mouth. Their main tasks include examining the mouth, neck, and head, treating oral conditions, taking X-rays, creating recovery plans, keeping clinical records, collaborating with consultants, and sometimes managing their practice. They can work in healthcare systems, private practices, or as lecturers at dental schools.
Steps to Become a Dentist:
Step-1
Complete an undergraduate degree, typically in a science-related field, to meet dental school prerequisites.
Step-2
Take and score well on the DAT to qualify for dental school admission.
Step-3
Enroll in a dental school to complete a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program, usually lasting four years.
Step-4
Pass the National Board Dental Examinations and any required state or regional clinical exams to become a licensed dentist.
Step-5
If pursuing a specialty, complete an additional residency program in that field.
Step-6
Work as an associate dentist or in other dental positions to build practical experience.
Step-7
Stay updated with advancements in dentistry through continuing education and professional development opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate from a recognized institution (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.) |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or equivalent. |
| Undergraduate Degree | Basic qualification: B.Sc, BDS, or a Diploma in a related field. |
| Postgraduate Degree | MSc or MDS in Dentistry recommended for advanced learning and specialization. |
| Entrance Exams | A valid score is needed in exams such as INI CET, AIPGDEE, NEET MDS, and NEET. |
- Minimum 50% aggregate in 12th grade from any recognized board (PUC, CBSE, ICSE, ISC). Cut-offs vary by college.
- Valid score in Entrance exams after 12th like INI CET, AIPGDEE, NEET MDS, NEET. Some colleges have their own exams, and state-specific exams are also available.
- Must have a B.Sc, BDS, or Diploma in a related field.
- A relevant Master’s degree can enhance career prospects and learning.
- MSc or MDS in Dentistry can be advantageous for advanced opportunities.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as a Dentist:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Dentists must possess a wide array of skills to succeed in their careers. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Knowledge of the structure and function of teeth and oral tissues is essential. | Knowledge of diseases affecting the mouth and surrounding structures. |
| Techniques for repairing and restoring damaged or decayed teeth. | Knowledge of procedures for treating the inside of teeth (root canals). |
| Principles of diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. | Knowledge of surgical procedures for complex dental issues. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Clinical Skills | Attention to Detail |
| Diagnostic Skills | Time Management |
| Communication | Problem-Solving |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Dentist.
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job roles offered for a Dentist:
Once you become a dentist, you have a range of career options and opportunities to explore in various fields.
Specialize in root canal therapy and other treatments of the inner tooth. They often work part-time and can establish profitable practices.
Perform routine check-ups, diagnose dental issues, and treat conditions like gum disease and tooth decay.
Provide care for all family members, spotting genetic dental issues and making dental visits less intimidating for children.
Manage patient treatment plans and ensure all necessary procedures are completed, handling any issues with care approval and payments.
Focus on preventing and treating periodontal diseases and perform advanced surgical procedures related to gum health.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career Opportunities for a Dentist:
Dentists can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| DreamWeavers InfoCom Pvt. Ltd. | Alpha Medical Coding Solutions | Clove Dental |
| Snazzy | ||
| Apollo Hospitals | ||
| Falconarium Realty Solutions Private Limited | Sabka dentist (Total Dental Care Private Limited) | Oasis Dental Care |
| Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic |
Colleges offering courses for Dentist:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, New Delhi | Mansarovar Dental College, Hospital and Research Centre, Bhopal |
| PT Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak | Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore |
| AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangalore | Faculty of Dental Sciences, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore |
| Army College of Dental Sciences, Secunderabad | Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai |
| PMS College of Dental Science and Research, Thiruvananthapuram | St. Gregorios Dental College, Ernakulam |
End Note
Becoming a dentist is a rewarding journey filled with opportunities to impact lives positively. Whether you’re just starting or looking to specialize, SetMyCareer is here to guide you along Career counselling after graduation with your career goals. Connect with our experts to take the next step in your dental career!
In this Career Outline
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