Overview
Master of Dental Surgery is a postgraduate degree in Dentistry. The duration of the Master of Dental Surgery is a three-years but there is a provision of a two-years MDS course for the candidates who have completed a Post Graduate Diploma course recognised by DCI.
MDS provides aspirants with training in different disciplines in dentistry. The main objective of the course is to train students to become registered dental specialists. The MDS course prepares candidates to be both practitioners and advisory consultants in their chosen areas of specialisation.
The Master of Dental Surgery course further aims to develop research skills, advanced clinical skills, and critical skills that are important for specialist registration.BDS graduates who wish to pursue an MDS course will have to clear the entrance exam conducted either by different states or by colleges. Students have to score minimum required marks to get admissions in the college of their choice. MDS degree provides a backbone to a dentist’s career as it helps them to apply for higher posts such as directors in hospitals or colleges. MDS graduates get paid very well according to their job position.
Eligibility
Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) must meet the requirements of the relevant examination and institution. Common criteria include:
- Educational Qualification: A recognised Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree or an accepted equivalent qualification.
- Internship: Completion of the one-year compulsory rotating internship by the prescribed deadline.
- Professional Registration: Valid provisional or permanent registration with the appropriate dental council, as required.
- Entrance Qualification: Meeting the qualifying criteria of the applicable entrance examination.
Foreign nationals must fulfil the prescribed qualification, registration, and institutional requirements. Temporary registration may be required for postgraduate training.
Applicants should refer to the relevant admission prospectus for session-specific requirements.
MDS Admission Process
Admission to MDS programmes is generally based on entrance examination performance, followed by counselling and seat allocation.
The process typically involves:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm that you meet the qualification, internship, and registration requirements.
- Apply for the Entrance Examination: Complete registration and submit the required documents and examination fee.
- Appear for the Examination: Take the applicable entrance test.
- Check Results: Confirm your qualifying status and rank.
- Participate in Counselling: Register for counselling and select preferred institutions and specialisations.
- Complete Admission: Attend document verification and pay the required fees after seat allotment.
Selection depends on rank, category, preferences, seat availability, and applicable counselling rules.
MDS Entrance Examinations
- NEET MDS: The principal entrance examination for admission to participating MDS programmes.
- INI CET: An admission route for MDS programmes at participating Institutes of National Importance.
Candidates should confirm which examination applies to their preferred institution.
MDS Specialisations
| Specialisation | Area of Study |
|---|---|
| Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge | Restoration and replacement of missing or damaged teeth to improve oral function, comfort, and appearance. |
| Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics | Assessment and correction of tooth alignment and jaw relationships. |
| Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics | Preservation and restoration of natural teeth, including the management of dental decay and conditions affecting the tooth pulp and root canals. |
| Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Surgical management of conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, face, and associated structures. |
| Periodontology | Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. |
| Oral Medicine and Radiology | Assessment of oral conditions and the use of imaging to support diagnosis and treatment planning. |
Operative dentistry generally forms part of conservative dentistry rather than being listed as a separate MDS specialisation. Available specialisations and seats vary across institutions.