The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) is a highly esteemed undergraduate course that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in dentistry. According to the Dental Council of India, there are over 300 dental colleges in the country, producing approximately 25,000 dental graduates annually.
Learn everything you need to know about BDS in this blog.
Overview of Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) is the fundamental degree required to practise dentistry professionally. This program has a wide range of BDS subjects, spanning clinical, biological, and social sciences.
Here is a table showcasing the key highlights of the blog.
| Key Highlights |
Details |
| Course Name |
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) |
| Course Duration |
5 years (8 semesters) + 1-year mandatory paid internship |
| Entrance Exam Required |
NEET |
| Top Colleges for BDS in India |
Faculty of Dental Sciences, IMS BHU
Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences
Government Dental College and Hospital |
| BDS Syllabus in 2024 |
General Pathology
Microbiology
General and Dental Pharmacology
Dental Therapeutics
Preclinical Conservative Dentistry
Oral Pathology
Oral Microbiology |
| BDS 1st-Year Subjects |
General Human Anatomy
General Human Physiology & Biochemistry
Dental Anatomy & Histology |
| BDS Postgraduate Specialisations |
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Orthodontics
Periodontics
Pedodontics |
| BDS Syllabus: Key Learning Methods |
Group Projects
Case Methodology
Live Demonstrations
Internships |
| Important Books for Subjects in BDS |
Textbook of Physiology by Guyton
Clinical Anatomy by Snell
Contemporary Orthodontics by Proffit |
Also Read: BDS Course: Full Form, Duration, Fees in Private College
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BDS Course Structure
The BDS course is divided into various components to ensure a well-rounded education. Here are the key details:
| Course Component |
Details |
| Foundation |
Basic sciences and introductory dental subjects |
| Core |
Essential dental subjects and clinical practices |
| Electives |
Specialised subjects for advanced learning |
| Projects |
Research and practical projects |
| Seminars |
Regular seminars on current dental practices and research |
| Internships |
One-year mandatory internship for hands-on experience |
| Viva |
Oral examinations to test comprehensive knowledge |
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List of Subjects in the BDS Syllabus
The BDS program offers a well-rounded education in dentistry, combining core subjects that establish essential knowledge with electives that allow for specialised expertise. This blend ensures students are thoroughly prepared for successful careers in dental care.
| Core Subjects in BDS |
Elective Subjects in BDS |
| Human Anatomy, Embryology, Histology, and Medical Genetics |
Aesthetic Dentistry |
| Human Physiology |
Forensic Odontology |
| Biochemistry |
Ethics |
| General and Dental Pharmacology and Therapeutics |
Behavioral Sciences |
| Orthodontics & Dental Orthopaedics |
Oral Implantology |
| Paediatric & Preventive Dentistry |
Public Health Dentistry |
|
Periodontology |
|
Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge |
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Detailed Breakdown of BDS Subjects Year-Wise
The BDS syllabus encompasses both core and elective subjects over four years. The fifth year is dedicated to an internship, which does not follow a specific syllabus. The detailed syllabus for each year is outlined below.
BDS 1st-Year Subjects
| Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
| General Human Anatomy |
Embryology & Histology |
| Dental Materials |
General Human Physiology & Biochemistry |
| Nutrition and Dietetics |
Preclinical Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge |
| Dental Anatomy |
Embryology |
| Oral Histology |
NA |
BDS 2nd-Year Subjects
| Semester 3 |
Semester 4 |
| General Pathology & Microbiology |
Preclinical Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge |
| General & Dental Pharmacology Therapeutics |
Oral Pathology & Oral Microbiology |
| Preclinical Conservative Dentistry |
NA |
BDS 3rd-Year Subjects
| Semester 5 |
Semester 6 |
| General Medicine |
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery |
| General Surgery |
Oral Medicine & Radiology |
| Oral Pathology & Microbiology |
Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics |
| Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics |
Pediatric & Preventive Dentistry |
BDS 4th-Year Subjects
| Semester 7 |
Semester 8 |
| Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics |
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
| Oral Medicine & Radiology |
Prosthodontics & Crown and Bridge |
| Pediatric & Preventive Dentistry |
Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics |
| Periodontology |
NA |
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BDS Syllabus: Core and Elective Subjects
All students pursuing a BDS degree must study the core BDS subjects. At the same time, candidates are required to choose elective BDS subjects from the BDS syllabus for their course learning.
Here is a detailed list highlighting the core and elective subjects, organised by year and their respective subject details.
| Semester/Year |
Core/Elective |
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
| BDS 1st-Year |
Core |
General Human Anatomy |
Helps students understand the general anatomy of the human body. Emphasises the local areas of the face and neck as they are directly associated with dentistry. Covers medical genetics. |
| BDS 1st-Year |
Core |
General Human Physiology, Biochemistry, Nutrition and Dietetics |
Basics of cells, nerves, and blood. Functioning of nerves, muscles, and hormones. |
| BDS 1st-Year |
Core |
Dental Anatomy and Dental Histology |
Definitions and nomenclature in Dental Anatomy. Tooth numbering systems. Differences between permanent and deciduous dentition. Elevations and depressions on the tooth. |
| 2nd Year |
Core |
General Pathology and Microbiology |
Introduction to Pathology and its different sections. Normal cell structure and cellular functions. Cellular adaptations and intracellular accumulations. |
| 2nd Year |
Core |
Dental Pharmacology and Therapeutics |
General Pharmacology. Effects of drugs on the Autonomic Nervous System. Central Nervous, and Cardiovascular and Renal System. |
| 2nd Year |
Core |
Dental Materials |
Introduction to Dental Materials. Biocompatibility of materials. Physical properties. Mechanical properties. Hydrocolloid impression materials. Gypsum products. |
| 3rd Year |
Core |
General Medicine |
Need for medicines and the aim of giving medications. Understanding symptoms and signs to provide the right medication. Methods of diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of various diseases. |
| 3rd Year |
Core |
General Surgery |
Introduction to Surgery (History and Principles). Inflammation, Aetiology, Pathology and Management. Carbuncle, Cellulitis, Abscess, Ludwig’s angina and Erysipelas. Tetanus and Gas Gangrene. Shock- definition, classification, Pathophysiology and Management. |
| 3rd Year |
Core |
Oral Pathology and Microbiology |
Developmental disturbances of oral and paraoral structures. Developmental disturbances of hard tissues. Benign and Malignant tumours of the oral cavity. Tumours of the salivary glands. |
| 3rd Year |
Core |
Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge |
Introduction to Complete Dentures: components/parts of a Complete Denture. Steps in the fabrication of Complete Dentures. Diagnosis and treatment planning. Clinical history taking. Mouth preparation is done in complete denture and pre-prosthetic surgery. |
| 4th Year |
Core |
Orthodontics and Dental Orthopaedics |
Definition, historical background, aims and objectives of Orthodontics, and need for Orthodontics care. Morphologic development of Craniofacial structures. |
| 4th Year |
Core |
Periodontology |
Definition of Periodontology, Periodontics, and Periodontia. Microstructural Anatomy and Biology of Periodontal Tissues in detail. Gingiva and junctional epithelium. Defensive mechanisms in the oral cavity. Classification of Periodontal diseases. |
| 4th Year |
Elective |
Public Health Dentistry |
Introduction, definition changing concepts, and History of Public Health in India. Characteristic Method and Techniques. Clinical Dentistry and Public Health Dentistry. Survey and Biostatistics. |
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BDS Lab Subjects
Practical learning is an important aspect of the BDS course. BDS subjects Year-wise for lab help students apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on practice.
| Year |
Lab Subjects |
Subject Details |
| First Year |
Pre-clinical Prosthodontics |
Introduction to dental materials, Basic Prosthodontic procedures, Laboratory techniques. |
| First Year |
Dental Anatomy |
Study of tooth morphology, Carving of tooth models, Understanding of dental structures. |
| Second Year |
Preclinical Conservative Dentistry |
Techniques in cavity preparation & restoration, Use of dental instruments and materials. |
| Second Year |
Pre-clinical Orthodontics |
Basic orthodontic principles, Wire bending, Appliance fabrication for malocclusion correction. |
| Third Year |
Clinical Prosthodontics |
Advanced prosthodontic procedures, including dentures, crowns, and bridges, Implant prosthetics. |
| Third Year |
Clinical Conservative Dentistry |
Clinical application of restorative techniques, Endodontics, Aesthetic dentistry procedures. |
| Fourth Year |
Comprehensive Clinical Practice |
Integrated clinical practice encompassing various dental disciplines, Patient management. |
| Fourth Year |
Oral Surgery Labs |
Hands-on training in oral surgical procedures and extractions, Minor oral surgeries. |
Download BDS Syllabus pdf
BDS Syllabus: Projects
Students pursuing a BDS are required to complete and submit various projects. Some popular project topics include regenerative endodontics, tooth enamel regeneration, and forensic dentistry.
Here are a few common BDS project topics:
- Exploring dental anxiety, smoking, and alcohol use in dental patients.
- Examining the implementation of dental coverage.
- Studying the impact of tumour microenvironment stiffness on osteosarcoma growth.
- Investigating the physiological or behavioural factors contributing to dental pain perception in patients.
- Assessing dentists' perspectives on patient education.
BDS Rotatory Internship
As part of their BDS program, students are required to complete a mandatory rotatory internship across various hospital departments. This internship is designed to provide practical knowledge and hands-on experience in patient care and management. The table below outlines the duration students are expected to spend in each department:
| Department |
Duration of Posting |
| Prosthodontics |
1.5 months |
| Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery |
1.5 months |
| Oral Medicine & Radiology |
1 month |
| Periodontics |
1 month |
| Conservative Dentistry |
1 month |
| Pedodontics |
1 month |
| Oral Pathology & Microbiology |
15 days |
| Orthodontics |
1 month |
| Community Dentistry/Rural Service |
3 months |
| Elective |
15 days |
| Total Duration |
12 months |
Can I Pursue BDS through Distance Learning?
It is important to note that BDS is a rigorous and practical course that cannot be pursued through distance education. The hands-on training and clinical experience required for dental practice necessitates attendance in a traditional educational setting, which is a fundamental aspect of the BDS syllabus.
Specialisations Offered in BDS
After completing the BDS course, graduates can pursue various postgraduate specialisations to further their expertise in specific areas of dentistry. Some popular specialisations include:
| Specialisation Name |
Subjects Covered |
| Paediatric Dentistry |
Preventive Pedodontics, Nutrition and Dietetics, Growth & Development, Applied Anatomy & Genetics |
| Periodontology |
Physiology, Pathology, Etiopathogenesis, Biochemistry, Applied Anatomy |
| Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge |
Tooth Replacements, Tooth and Tissue Defects, Esthetic/Smile Designing, Complete Dentures |
BDS Entrance Exam: NEET 2024 Key Details
NEET 2024 has experienced a significant rise in registrations compared to the previous year. The latest updates reveal a record-breaking 24,06,079 students applying for the exam, surpassing last year's 2.087 million candidates.
Here are the key details of NEET-UG for you:
| Exam Name |
NEET-UG (National Entrance-cum-Eligibility Test) |
| Conducting Body |
National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Purpose |
Admission to BDS, MBBS, and other medical, dental, and ayurvedic programs in India |
| Exam Mode |
Pen and paper mode using an OMR sheet |
| Duration |
3 hours |
| Total Questions |
180 questions |
| Sections |
Physics: Section A (35 questions), Section B (15 questions)
Chemistry: Section A (35 questions), Section B (15 questions)
Botany: Section A (35 questions), Section B (15 questions)
Zoology: Section A (35 questions), Section B (15 questions) |
| Marking Scheme |
+4 marks for each correct answer
-1 mark for each incorrect answer |
| Languages Available |
13 languages |
| Difficulty Level |
Moderate to difficult |
| Age Criteria |
Minimum: 17 years; Maximum: 25 years |
| Eligibility |
Must have studied English, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in 12th standard |
BDS Entrance Exam Syllabus
The NEET-UG exam is required to enter medical, dental, and Ayurveda programs. Divided into four sections, each section is further divided into two parts. Below is a table that summarises the key topics covered in the BDS entrance exam syllabus:
| Physics |
Van de Graaff Generator, Newton’s Law of Cooling, Stefan’s Law, Magnetic Field Lines, Kinematics, Heat Engines and Refrigerators, Gravitation, Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation |
| Chemistry |
Solid State, Properties and Uses of Hydrogen, Polymers, Isotopes, Isotones, Isobars, Hydrocarbons, Cyanides and Isocyanides, Chemistry in Everyday Life, Chemical Kinetics, Atomic Number |
| Biology (Botany/Zoology) |
Reproduction, Physiology, Human Physiology, Genetics and Evolution, Ecology and Environment, Biology and Human Welfare |
Important Books for the BDS Syllabus
Having the right reference materials is crucial for succeeding in the BDS course. Here is a table showcasing some recommended textbooks and their authors.
| Subject |
Book Title |
Authors |
| Physiology |
Textbook of Physiology |
Guyton |
| Human Physiology for BDS Students |
A.K. Jain |
| Human Anatomy, Embryology, Histology & Medical Genetics |
Clinical Anatomy for Medical Students |
Snell (Richard S.) |
| Medical Embryology |
Sadler, Langman’s |
| Oral Radiology |
Principles of Oral Diagnosis |
Coleman |
| Oral Diagnosis & Oral Medicine |
Mitchell |
| Oral Manifestations of Systemic Diseases |
Jones |
| Orthodontics & Dental Orthopaedics |
Contemporary Orthodontics |
William R. Proffit |
| Orthodontics For Dental Students |
White and Gardiner |
| Paediatric & Preventive Dentistry |
Pediatric Dentistry (Infancy through Adolescence) |
Pinkham |
| Occlusal Guidance in Paediatric Dentistry |
Stephen H. Wei |
| Dentistry for the Child and Adolescence |
McDonald |
| Public Health Dentistry |
Dentistry Dental Practice and Community |
David F. Striffler and Brian A. Burt |
| Principles of Dental Public Health |
James Morse Dunning |
| Periodontology |
Glickman’s Clinical Periodontology |
Carranza |
| Essentials of Periodontology and Periodontics |
Torquil MacPhee |
| Preventive Periodontics |
Young and Stiffler |
| Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge |
Syllabus of Complete Denture |
Charles M. Heartwell Jr. and Arthur O. Rahn |
| Essentials of Complete Denture Prosthodontics |
Sheldon Winkler |
| Ethics |
Medical Ethics |
Francis C.M. |
| General Psychology |
S.K. Mangal |
Also Read: NEET UG Medical College Predictor
BDS Syllabus: Teaching Methodology
The teaching methodology in BDS incorporates various techniques to enhance learning and practical skills.
1. Group Projects
Collaborative projects to develop teamwork skills.
2. Case Methodology
Analysis of real-life dental cases to apply theoretical knowledge.
3. Live Demonstrations
Practical demonstrations by experienced professionals.
Top Colleges for BDS
Choose the best institution for BDS with this list of top colleges in India, their locations, admission processes, and average course fees. Admission to these colleges is primarily through the NEET exam, with course fees varying significantly across institutions.
Here is a list of the top colleges for BDS in India.
| Name of the College |
College Location |
Average Course Fee |
| Faculty of Dental Sciences, IMS BHU |
Varanasi |
Below 1 lakh |
| Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences |
New Delhi |
INR 1 - 1.5 lakhs |
| Government Dental College and Hospital |
Mumbai |
INR 2 - 2.5 lakhs |
| Government Dental College and Hospital |
Nagpur |
INR 2 - 2.5 lakhs |
| Dr R Ahmed Dental College and Hospital |
Kolkata |
Below 1 lakh |
| Manipal College of Dental Sciences |
Mangaluru |
INR 25 - 30 lakhs (approx.) |
With a well-structured BDS syllabus that includes core and elective subjects, practical lab work, projects, and a mandatory internship, students are thoroughly prepared for a successful career in dentistry.
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