Dentist (BDS)
Dentists in India diagnose and treat oral diseases, perform procedures like extractions, fillings, root canals, and preventive care. With rising dental awareness and a shortage of dentists in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, BDS graduates enjoy strong demand in both private practice and government hospitals. Post-BDS specialisation via MDS significantly boosts earning potential and clinical scope.
Actions for your grade
- Score 85%+ in Science and Maths in board exams to qualify for PCB in Class 11
- Explore NEET UG eligibility criteria and syllabus overview
- Visit a government dental college open day if available nearby
Your complete path from Grade 10 to Dentist (BDS)
Every step you need — from now to your first job.
Requires PCB in Class 12 with minimum 50% aggregate; high NEET UG cutoff for government seats.
- NowScience Stream
- ExamsNEET UG
- DegreeBachelor of Dental Surgery — BDS (5 years incl. 1-year internship)
- CollegesMaulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences Delhi · Government Dental College Mumbai · Nair Hospital Dental College Mumbai
- CareerDentist (BDS)
NEET UG score required; annual fees range ₹3–8 LPA — evaluate ROI vs government seat.
- NowScience Stream
- ExamsNEET UG
- DegreeBachelor of Dental Surgery — BDS (5 years incl. 1-year internship)
- CollegesManipal College of Dental Sciences · Saveetha Dental College Chennai · SRM Dental College Chennai
- CareerDentist (BDS)
MDS entrance is NEET MDS (separate exam post-BDS internship); dramatically increases specialist earnings.
- NowScience Stream
- ExamsNEET UG
- DegreeMaster of Dental Surgery — MDS (3 years; specialisations: Orthodontics, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, etc.)
- CollegesMaulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences Delhi · Manipal College of Dental Sciences · Saveetha Dental College Chennai
- CareerDentist (BDS)
Entrance exams
| Exam | Eligibility | Difficulty | Window |
|---|---|---|---|
NEET UG NTA | Class 12 PCB, 50%+ | Very Hard | May |
Where to Study
Institutes known to offer this career pathway in India.