Dental Courses after 12th - Eligibility Criteria & Top Institutes

Dentistry is a popular medical field focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing oral health issues. Apart from MBBS, there are several dental courses available after class 12th that do not require the NEET exam. To become a dentist, most students pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dentistry and then work in private practices or public healthcare centres.

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In India, dentistry ranks as the second most popular medical course after MBBS. These dental courses after 12th prepare students to practice dentistry either independently or under hospital supervision. The courses cover the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the teeth, tongue, and jaw, and they do not require NEET.

This article lists various dental courses available after 12th, including the eligibility requirements, course duration, and top colleges offering these programmes. For eligibility, students typically need to have completed 12th grade with subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB).

Dental Courses After 12th

Several dental courses offer excellent career opportunities and help students build strong knowledge in the field. The following table highlights the top five dental courses after 12th, including their eligibility criteria and the colleges that offer these programmes. These courses provide students with the skills needed for a successful career.

Detailed Overview of Dental Courses

Here are the details of each dental course, including its duration. These courses cover a wide range of dental fields, from basic dental assistant training to advanced specialisations like BDS. Each programme provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in the field of dentistry.

1. BDS

In India, BDS is the only recognised professional dental course, required for students who wish to work as dentists in private or government hospitals. This course focuses on dental sciences and procedures and lasts five years, consisting of four years of classroom instruction and one year of mandatory rotating internship.

Fees for this course can range from Rs 15,000 to Rs 15 Lakhs. The BDS programme is essential for those who are aiming to practise dentistry independently or under supervision.

BDS Course Duration: This is a five-year undergraduate programme.

Also Check: Top B.D.S. Colleges in India

2. BSc Dental Technology

Students can learn all the laboratory procedures in dentistry through this course after class 12th. They will also be trained to use modern dental technologies and treatment methods. Although it is one of the lesser-known dental courses after 12th in India, it provides important skills for a career in dentistry.

BSc Dental Technology Duration: This is a three-year degree programme.

Also Check: Top Dentistry Colleges in India

3. Diploma in Dental Assistant

Students who wish to work as dental assistants should pursue such dental diploma courses after 12th. A dental assistant is responsible for ensuring that all required precautions are followed before, during, and after dental treatment to ensure a smooth and effective process.

This diploma in dental after 12th teaches students that they must make sure that all medical equipment is sterile and in good operating order.

Diploma in Dental Assistant Duration: This is a two-year diploma programme

4. Diploma in Dental Hygiene

This diploma after the 12th teaches students about oral hygiene and preventive dentistry. They will become experts in oral health, learning to assess, diagnose, and treat issues like gum diseases, tooth problems, jaw injuries, and other dental complications. It prepares them for a career in dental care and patient health management.

Duration: This is a two-year dental diploma programme

5. Integrated Dental Photography Certificate Course

Photography has become an important skill for dentists. It is used for educational purposes, in journals, briefings, and treatment decisions. It also serves in medico-legal matters, laboratory communication, forensic investigations, and as a marketing tool.

Anyone can take a photo, but understanding how to capture high-quality images with the right angles is important. Dentists must also be able to quickly organise and use the photos for effective treatment planning and communication, which saves time and improves patient results. This skill has become necessary in modern dental practices.

Duration: This is a four-month certificate course

Dental Jobs Roles

Students who complete dental courses after class 12th can find work in companies that manufacture dental implants and materials. They can also explore different career opportunities in the dental field. These roles allow graduates to contribute to oral healthcare and work in various environments, including private practices and public health centres.

Here are some of the well-known job profiles that graduates can apply for:

• Dentist
• Dental Surgeon
• Lecturer
• Dental Consultant
• Dental Assistant
• Dental Hygienists
• Community Dental Health Specialist
• Cosmetic Dentist
• Technicians in Dental Laboratories

Scope of Dentists

Dentists with the right qualifications have many career opportunities. They can work in government hospitals, private clinics, or even teach at educational institutions. Some dentists also start their practice for more independence and control over their work. Here are some of the key points:

• Qualified dentists are in high demand across various healthcare backgrounds.
• Government hospitals and community health centres often hire dentists.
• Private clinics offer additional job opportunities for dentists.
• Many dentists choose to start their practice for more flexibility.
• Dentists can pursue postgraduate education to teach in schools or colleges.
• Dentists' salaries typically range from Rs. 3.5-6 LPA, based on their skills and experience.

Dentistry is a promising field with diverse career options. After completing dental courses, graduates can work in hospitals, and clinics, or even run their practice. With further studies, they can also pursue teaching roles. Overall, it offers a fulfilling career with great earning potential and growth opportunities.