Dentistry is a profession dealing with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases and disorders, with primary emphasis on the health of teeth and gums. In a sense, dentistry is a medical sub-specialty. Good oral health is critical to human psychological and physical well-being since the state of the teeth affect speech and expression, and, also, systemic diseases frequently manifest themselves in the oral cavity. Therefore, we all require proper suggestions of dentists to keep our teeth healthy and fit for long years. Thus dentistry as a profession is becoming more demanding and remunerative, attracting young aspirants.

Courses and eligibility:

The basic course offered in dentistry is a 4 year Bachelor’s in Dental Science (BDS).The minimum requirement for BDS is 10+2 pass in science stream with biology as the core subject. Admission is made based on the marks obtained in the entrance exam. Those who complete BDS should get registered with the Dental Council of India for private practice. Master's in Dental Science (MDS) requires two years of additional training.

Career Prospects:

BDS graduates can be employed as practitioners in government hospitals, private nursing homes, industrial and corporate hospitals. Several dentists hold positions as commissioned officers in armed forces. Others are employed by the veterans administration and in public health dentistry at the state or local level. Graduates can also be employed as part-time teachers, administrators, and investigators in dental schools and in dental research laboratories like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).Besides, as private practitioners, they can have their own dental clinics. Indian dentists have a wide scope in countries like USA, UK and Australia.

Remuneration:

Dentistry is a well-remunerative career option. Graduates employed in government hospitals earn Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 per month. Private hospitals and nursing homes offer more lucrative pay packages to dentists. A private practitioner can earn anywhere between Rs 20,000 to Rs 1 lac per month depending upon his/her personal reputation.

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