The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) is a professional degree program in dentistry in India. It prepares students to become dental surgeons and is a popular course for those interested in dental health and care. Here is a detailed overview:

 

The BDS course typically spans five (5) years, which includes four years of academic education followed by one year of mandatory internship. Some universities might offer a slightly different structure, but the five-year span is standard.

 

Academic Requirements:

  - Candidates must have completed their higher secondary education (10+2) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as main subjects.

  - They should have secured at least 50% marks in these subjects (40% for reserved category students).

 

Age Limit:

  - Candidates must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission or by the end of the year of admission.

  

Admission to the BDS program is typically based on performance in competitive entrance exams. The most common exams are:

 

NEET-UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Undergraduate):

  - Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET-UG is the primary entrance examination for admission to BDS courses across India.

  - The exam covers subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology).

  

State-Level Entrance Exams:

  - Some states conduct their own entrance exams for admission to state quota seats in dental colleges.

 

The BDS course is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to practice dentistry. With the requirement of competitive exams like NEET-UG, it ensures that only qualified candidates enter the field. Post-graduation, the career opportunities are diverse, ranging from clinical practice to academia and research, making it a rewarding career path for aspiring dental professionals.