MDS (Master of Dental Surgery) is a postgraduate degree in dentistry in India, offering advanced knowledge and training in various dental specializations. Here's an overview of the MDS program in India:
Eligibility Criteria
- BDS Degree: Candidates must have a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from a recognized institution.
- Internship: Completion of a one-year compulsory rotatory internship is required.
- Entrance Exams: Admission is primarily based on entrance exams like NEET MDS, conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).
Specializations
MDS offers various specializations, including:
- Oral Medicine and Radiology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Periodontology
- Orthodontics
- Prosthodontics
- Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry
- Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics
- Public Health Dentistry
- Oral Pathology and Microbiology
Admission Process
- NEET MDS: Candidates must qualify for the NEET MDS exam.
- Counseling: Based on NEET MDS scores, candidates participate in a centralized counseling process for seat allocation in various colleges.
Duration
The MDS program typically lasts three years, including both theoretical and practical training.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue careers in:
- Clinical Practice: Work as specialized dentists in hospitals and private clinics.
- Academics: Join dental colleges as faculty members.
- Research: Engage in dental research and contribute to advancements in dental sciences.
- Public Health: Work in government health departments and NGOs focusing on public dental health.
Top Institutions
Some prestigious institutions offering MDS in India include:
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
- Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, New Delhi
- King George's Medical University, Lucknow
- Government Dental College and Hospital, Mumbai
- Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal
The MDS program in India provides comprehensive training and opens up various avenues for professional growth and contribution to the field of dentistry.
