After completing school education, many students who wish to build a career in the medical field dream of becoming a doctor. Doctors are highly respected in Indian society and are often regarded as a form of God. People strongly believe that if they fall ill, a doctor will save their life. This belief is deeply rooted in the minds and hearts of people.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, almost everyone experienced this reality either directly or indirectly. Doctors and healthcare workers stood on the frontlines and played a crucial role in saving countless lives.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India currently has approximately 3.78 lakh registered dental doctors, and every year around 25,000 to 27,000 dentists graduate. In urban areas, the ratio of dentists to the population is relatively balanced; however, at the rural level, there is a severe shortage of dental doctors.

For admission to the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) course, a student must pass Class 12 from a recognised board with at least 50 percent marks. The student must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as compulsory subjects and must be at least 17 years of age at the time of admission.

Admission to BDS courses across India is conducted through a single national-level entrance examination known as NEET-UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Undergraduate). This examination is mandatory for admission to MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses in both government and private institutions.

NEET is considered a highly competitive and challenging examination. Across India, there are approximately 28,000 to 30,000 BDS seats, while nearly 24–25 lakh students appear for the examination every year. Out of these students, only those who qualify are able to secure admission to MBBS or BDS courses.

The BDS course has a duration of five years, which includes academic study along with a compulsory internship. During the course, students study subjects such as Dental Anatomy and Histology, Physiology and Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pathology, Microbiology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Periodontology, Pedodontics and Public Health Dentistry among others.

After completing BDS, students can choose from a wide range of career opportunities based on their interests. They can work as dental surgeons through state or central government recruitment.

They can serve as commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces, or They can work in railway hospitals also. There is also a strong demand for dental doctors in various government and private hospitals. Additionally, graduates can start their own dental clinics.

Students may also pursue higher education by opting for postgraduate courses such as MDS, Master of Public Health (MPH), or MBA in Healthcare Management.

After completing higher studies, they can work with international organizations such as WHO and UNICEF, or build careers in pharmaceutical companies by contributing to drug trials, clinical research, and medical research.

Overall, a career in dentistry not only offers respect, stability, and growth but also provides an opportunity to serve society and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.