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Pediatric Dentist

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Pediatric dentists specialize in oral health for children. They focus on preventive care, treating dental issues, and ensuring healthy smiles from infancy through adolescence.

Average Salary

₹9,00,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Pediatric Dentist

To become a pediatric dentist in India, a specific educational path must be followed. Here's a detailed breakdown:

  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS):
    • Complete a 5-year BDS program from a Dental Council of India (DCI) recognized dental college.
    • This includes 4 years of study and 1 year of compulsory rotatory internship.
  • Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) in Pediatric Dentistry:
    • After completing BDS, pursue a 3-year MDS program specializing in Pediatric Dentistry.
    • Admission to MDS programs is typically based on national-level entrance exams like NEET-MDS.
  • Entrance Exams:
    • NEET-MDS is the primary entrance exam for postgraduate dental courses in India.
    • Some institutions may conduct their own entrance exams as well.
  • Essential Skills:
    • Strong foundation in dental sciences.
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with children.
    • Patience and empathy to handle young patients effectively.
    • Dexterity and attention to detail for performing precise dental procedures.
  • Curriculum Highlights:
    • The MDS program covers subjects like pediatric oral pathology, child psychology, preventive dentistry, and advanced clinical techniques for treating children's dental issues.
    • Hands-on training in managing various dental conditions in infants, children, and adolescents is a key component.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges for Pediatric Dentistry in India

To pursue a successful career as a Pediatric Dentist, choosing the right college is crucial. Here are some of the top institutions in India offering excellent programs in dentistry:

  • Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences (MAIDS), Delhi:
    • Renowned for its comprehensive dental programs and experienced faculty.
    • Offers both BDS and MDS programs with a strong focus on clinical training.
  • Postgraduate Institute of Dental Sciences (PGIDS), Rohtak:
    • A leading dental institute in Haryana, known for its research and academic excellence.
    • Provides MDS programs in various specializations, including Pediatric Dentistry.
  • Government Dental College, Mumbai:
    • One of the oldest and most prestigious dental colleges in India.
    • Offers a wide range of dental courses with a strong emphasis on patient care.
  • Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal:
    • A constituent college of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).
    • Known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and innovative teaching methods.
  • SRM Dental College, Chennai:
    • Part of SRM Institute of Science and Technology.
    • Offers comprehensive dental education with a focus on research and clinical practice.

These colleges are recognized for their academic rigor, experienced faculty, and excellent infrastructure, providing students with a strong foundation for a successful career in Pediatric Dentistry.

Fees

The fee structure for Pediatric Dentistry courses in India varies depending on the type of institution (government, private, or deemed university) and the location. Here’s a general overview:

  • BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery):
    • Government Dental Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year.
    • Private Dental Colleges: ₹1,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year.
  • MDS (Master of Dental Surgery) in Pediatric Dentistry:
    • Government Dental Colleges: ₹30,000 to ₹70,000 per year.
    • Private Dental Colleges: ₹2,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 per year.
  • Factors Influencing Fees:
    • Reputation and ranking of the college.
    • Infrastructure and facilities available.
    • Location of the college (metro cities tend to have higher fees).
    • Availability of scholarships and financial aid.
  • Additional Costs:
    • Hostel fees (if applicable).
    • Examination fees.
    • Cost of books and study materials.
    • Clinical equipment and instruments.
Related Exams

To become a Pediatric Dentist in India, several key exams need to be cleared. Here’s a detailed overview:

  • NEET-MDS (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test - Master of Dental Surgery):
    • This is the primary entrance exam for MDS programs in India.
    • Conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).
    • It assesses candidates on their knowledge of dental subjects covered in the BDS curriculum.
    • A good score in NEET-MDS is essential for securing admission to top dental colleges for MDS in Pediatric Dentistry.
  • Institutional Level Exams:
    • Some dental colleges and universities conduct their own entrance exams for MDS programs.
    • These exams may include written tests, practical assessments, and interviews.
    • Check the specific admission criteria of the colleges you are interested in.
  • Exam Preparation Tips:
    • Focus on a thorough understanding of the BDS curriculum.
    • Solve previous years' question papers to understand the exam pattern.
    • Take mock tests to assess your preparation level.
    • Join coaching classes or online platforms for structured guidance.
    • Stay updated with the latest developments in dental science.
Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High demand for specialized pediatric dental care.
  2. Opportunity to positively impact children's oral health.
  3. Rewarding career with long-term patient relationships.
  4. Potential for higher earning compared to general dentistry.
  5. Diverse work settings: clinics, hospitals, and academia.
  6. Continuous learning and professional development.
  7. Job satisfaction from helping children overcome dental anxiety.
  8. Opportunities for research and innovation in pediatric dentistry.

Cons

  1. Requires extensive education and training.
  2. Dealing with challenging behaviors in young patients.
  3. High stress due to the sensitive nature of pediatric care.
  4. Emotional toll of treating children with severe dental issues.
  5. Need for constant updates on pediatric dental advancements.
  6. Initial investment in specialized equipment and clinic setup.
  7. Managing parental expectations and anxieties.
  8. Risk of exposure to childhood illnesses.