Career As Dentists: Best Institutes, Eligibility & Job Prospects 2023

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Career as Dentists manage the health and well-being of their patients’ oral health (i.e., teeth, gums and surrounding tissue) by checking for, treating, and fixing cavities, tooth decay, gum sensitivity and gum disease. Dentists are responsible for identifying existing dental and oral problems, figuring out a plan for reversing or fixing damage, and implementing the plan. Dentists work in hospitals, private and public dental practices/offices, colleges and universities (teaching) and health/wellness clinics.

Dentists are also cosmeticians of a sort – they can completely change a patient’s appearance. Specialisations such as: 

    • Periodontics (care of gums and the diseases that might afflict them)
    • Oral pathology (diagnosis for diseases that affect the mouth)
    • Orthodontics (straightening and aligning teeth and jaws)

Dentists have to work very closely with patients, so patience, compassion, and good bedside manners are necessary. Furthermore, removing teeth and cleaning sensitive gums involves dealing with some amount of blood. A keen eye for detail is another necessary trait for someone looking to pursue dentistry, since spotting cavities and other deformities or abnormalities early can prevent further complications. Lastly, dentistry requires the use of complicated medical/dental tools and machinery.  

Eligibility Criteria As Dentists 2023

    • Bachelor of Dental Surgery or Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS) degree, and,
    • Completion of the 10+2 exam in the science stream plus English, with a minimum of 50 percent marks in each course. 

BDS is a five year programme (the last year is an internship). You will need a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) from a Dental Council of India (DCI)-approved school to follow the options below, among others:

    • Prosthodontics
    • Oral pathology and microbiology
    • Oral and maxillofacial surgery
    • Oral medicine and radiology
    • Periodontics or orthodontics

Some other courses in dental education are the Dental Hygienist Certificate Course, the Dental Mechanic Certificate Course, and the Diploma Course in Dental Assistance.

Dentistry Job Prospects 2023

In both the public and the private sector, dentists may work in: 

    • Dental departments in hospitals
    • Nursing homes
    • Dental clinics
    • Health departments 
    • Teaching departments of dental colleges
    • Pharmaceutical research into oral care products and medicines
    • A private practice, which allows for greater independence 
    • Dental hygienist, assistant or consultant to models and actors – which is obviously highly lucrative

Dentists Salary 2023

In 2023, the average annual salary for dentists in India is approximately ₹6.5 lakhs (equivalent to INR 54,166 per month). The top 10% of dentists earn ₹9 lakhs or more annually, while the lowest 10% earn ₹3 lakhs or below.

Dentists salaries are influenced by various factors, including:

  1. Location: Dentists practicing in urban areas generally command higher salaries compared to those in rural regions.
  2. Specialization: Dentists specializing in specific fields like orthodontics or oral and maxillofacial surgery typically earn more than general dentists.
  3. Experience: Dentists with more years of experience usually earn higher incomes than those with less experience.
  4. Education: Dentists graduating from renowned dental institutions often enjoy higher earning potential than their counterparts from less prestigious schools.

Here are the average annual salaries for dentists in some prominent Indian cities:

  • New Delhi: ₹7.5 lakhs
  • Mumbai: ₹7 lakhs
  • Bengaluru: ₹6.5 lakhs
  • Chennai: ₹6 lakhs
  • Pune: ₹5.5 lakhs

While considering a dentistry career in India, it’s essential to weigh the salary aspect. However, remember that remuneration isn’t the sole consideration. Dentistry offers a fulfilling vocation that lets you impact people’s lives positively.

Additional factors to ponder regarding dentist salaries in India include:

  1. Cost of Living: The cost of living in India is notably lower compared to the United States, amplifying the value of dentist salaries.
  2. High Demand: The demand for dentists in India is substantial, resulting in a plethora of job openings.
  3. Healthcare Investment: The Indian government’s substantial investments in healthcare are fostering fresh avenues for dentists.

Ultimately, your decision should encompass both salary considerations and the intrinsic rewards of contributing to healthcare and people’s well-being.

Dentistry Institutes 2023

FAQS

Demand for dentists is expected to increase as larger numbers of older people require dental services. Because each generation is more likely to keep their teeth than the previous generation, more dental care is expected to be needed in the years to come.

The highest dental salary in the US is the salary of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. They can earn anywhere from $264,500 to $400,000 annually.

The scope of dentistry is constantly evolving, as new technologies and treatments are discovered to help improve and maintain oral health. The demand for dentists is expected to increase in the future, as more people are aware of the importance of dental health, and the need for specialized dentists is growing
 
 
Time management is a major factor of stress for dentists. Working long hours as a dentist can be extremely stressful and demanding, which requires great time management. Every patient needs the dentist’s undivided attention, but as time passes and one grows weary, it can be challenging to offer the greatest care
Highest Paying Dentistry Jobs
  1. Pedodontist. National average salary: ₹35,002 per month. …
  2. General dentist. National average salary: ₹20,085 per month. …
  3. Periodontist. National average salary: ₹31,112 per month. …
  4. Prosthodontist. National average salary: ₹5,24,000 per year. …
  5. Endodontist. …
  6. Oral and maxillofacial surgeon. …
  7. Orthodontist