HEALTH
Dentist (BDS)
Oral health, from check-ups to surgery — usually in clinics, often your own.
Facts checked 17/10/2026
- Class 11–12 subjects
- Same as MBBS: Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English in Class 12.
- First degree
- BDS: 4 years of study plus a 1-year paid internship (5 years).
- Entrance exams
- NEET UG for BDS; NEET MDS (NBEMS) for MDS.
- Licence or registration
- Registration with the State Dental Council and the national register.
What the work is like
Treating teeth and gums, fillings, root canals, braces, extractions; many dentists run their own clinic.
Professional qualificationRun by National Dental Commission (replaced the Dental Council of India in March 2026). You can start after: Class 12 with PCB. Minimum time: 5 years after Class 12.
The full route: exams, training, registration
- Step 1 · Class 12NEET UG (same rules as MBBS).
- Step 2 · 4 yearsBDS study. (reported — check with the official body)
- Step 3 · 1 yearCompulsory paid rotating internship. (reported — check with the official body)
- Step 4Register with the State Dental Council.
- Optional · 3 yearsMDS through NEET MDS. (reported — check with the official body)
- The National Dental Commission started work on 19 March 2026 and replaces the Dental Council of India (reported). How registration works under it is still being set up.
Good to know
- Setting up your own clinic needs money for equipment; many start by working in an established practice.
About pay: it varies a lot by city, employer and skill, and changes year to year, so we don't print salary numbers. Ask us in a session and we'll show you current, sourced figures for your case.
Thinking about dentist (bds)? Message us on WhatsApp. We reply within 24 hours.