Dentistry is the profession concerned with the prevention and treatment of oral diseases, including diseases of the teeth and supporting structures and diseases of the soft tissues of the mouth and oral cavity. The dentistry also encompasses the treatment and correction of malformation of the jaws, misalignment of the teeth and birth anomalies of the oral cavity, such as cleft palate. The dentistry also includes general practice and also includes many specialities and subspecialties, including orthodontics and dental orthopedics, paediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, oral and maxillofacial pathology and maxillofacial surgery etc.

What do MDS students study?

The MDS course equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to address the dental and oral health issues that are commonly faced by people. As part of the curriculum, the course promotes the development of critical analysis, research skills, and advanced clinical skills. It trains students in advanced techniques and methods for providing dental care and solutions. Additionally, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of oral treatment and healthcare, and enables students to perform oral surgeries.

Eligibility for MDS

To be eligible for admission to an MDS program in India, a candidate must have completed a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from a recognized dental college or university in India. Additionally, the candidate must have completed a one-year compulsory rotating internship after obtaining the BDS degree. Candidates must also qualify for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for MDS (NEET-MDS) conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) in India. The eligibility criteria may vary from college to college, so it's always best to check the specific requirements of the college you're interested in.

Courses

MDS Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics - The specialization involves addressing issues related to cavities, malformations, discoloration, unsightly or broken teeth, as well as the management of endodontic and periapical diseases and dental pain.

MDS Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery - Oral and maxillofacial surgery refers to a dental specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries, and deformities in the jaws, face, neck, and the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region.

MDS Orthodontics - This particular field of dentistry places a greater emphasis on researching and treating malocclusions, which are caused by misaligned jaws, uneven teeth or a combination of both.

MDS Prosthodontics - The field of Prosthodontics educates students to provide prosthesis treatment to patients while also imparting knowledge about applied medical, behavioral, and clinical sciences.

MDS Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry - This specialisation focuses on various aspects such as preventive measures through diet, dental prophylaxis, and nonsurgical dental restorations. The course also includes the study of early diagnosis and treatment of oral injuries as well as rapid diagnosis of different dental malformations.

MDS Periodontics - This specialisation focuses on the treatment and prevention of disorders related to the structure and parts of teeth, including gums, periodontal membranes, cementum, and alveolar bone.

MDS Oral Medicine and Radiology - The Oral Medicine and Radiology specialization is dedicated to the study and treatment of disorders related to the mouth and its surrounding structures. In addition, students receive comprehensive training on oral manifestations of medical conditions and treating medically challenged patients in the dental field.

MDS Oral Pathology - This field of specialization focuses on the study of the nature, characteristics, causes, effects, and treatment of diseases that affect the oral and maxillofacial regions, as well as research related to the immune system to aid in providing proper healthcare.

MDS Public Health Dentistry - One area of focus in this specialization is the prevention and treatment of dental diseases, alongside efforts to promote dental health through initiatives aimed at populations.