BDS Course 1st Year Syllabus and Subjects List 2024

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BDS is a professional degree program in dentistry that is designed to provide students with a wide range of knowledge and skills related to oral health, dental diseases, dental science, and clinical practice.

It emphasizes the importance of oral health and the role of dentists in healthcare.

It prepares students to become qualified and skilled dental professionals who can treat, diagnose, and prevent various dental and oral health issues.

This article will include information about the bds course details, course fees, course duration, eligibility criteria, subject covered, potential career options, top colleges, salary, and more.

What is BDS Course?

The BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) course is a professional degree course after the 12th and is awarded to the students who successfully complete the program of study in the field of dentistry.

The BDS curriculum is comprehensive and covers various aspects of dental education and practice including both theoretical lectures and practical clinical training.

It is 5 years course, 4 years include in-depth knowledge and understanding of various theoretical concepts related to dentistry and oral health, and 1-year mandatory internship during this period, students work in dental clinics, hospitals, or institutions under the guidance of experienced practitioners.

It is designed to train students to become dental professionals who can be capable of diagnosing and treating various oral health issues.

That prepares individuals to become dentists who can treat and diagnose diseases and conditions related to teeth oral cavity, loose teeth, bleeding, cracked teeth, gum disease, oral cancer, tooth erosion, etc.

BDS Course 1st Year Subjects and Syllabus

1. General Human Anatomy including Embryology, Osteology and Histology

General Anatomy

• Anatomical terms
• Cardiovascular system
• Portal system
• Lymphatic system
• Skeletal system
• Muscular system
• Arthrology
• Nervous system

Head and Neck

• Scalp, face
• Temple
• Lacrimal apparatus
• Neck, Cranial cavity
• Cranial nerves
• Orbital cavity
• Parotid gland
• Nasal cavity
• Oral cavity
• Osteology

Thorax

• Thoracic wall
• Pleural cavity and pleura
• Mediastinum
• Lungs, Heart

Clinical Procedures with anatomical background

• Intramuscular injections
• Intravenous injections and Venesection
• Arterial Pulsations in dissected bodies and in a living person
• Lumbar Puncture

Embryology

• Gametogenesis
• Fertilization
• Placenta
• Primitive streak
• Neurulation and neural crest
• Bilaminar and trilaminate embryo
• Formation and fate of intraembryonic mesoderm
• Formation and fate of notochord
• Pharyngeal arches clefts and pouches derivatives
• Development of face, palate, tongue
• Development of thyroid, pituitary, and salivary glands
• Relevant developmental anomalies
• Development of tooth

Histology

• Cell
• Basic tissues
• Nervous tissue
• Skin
• Lymphatic tissue
• Glands
• Blood vessels

Medical genetics

• Mitosis and Meiosis
• Chromosome structure and classification
• Gene structure
• Numerical and structural abnormalities
• Pattern of inheritance

2. General Human Physiology, Biochemistry Nutrition and Dietetics

General Physiology

Homeostasis

• Basic concept
• Feedback mechanisms
• Structure of cell membrane
• Transport across the cell membrane
• Membrane potentials

Blood

• Composition & functions of blood
• Specific gravity
• Plasma proteins
• Erythrocyte
• ESR
• Haemoglobin
• Anaemia
• Leucocytes
• Thrombocytes
• Hemostasis
• Blood volume

Muscle and Nerve

• Classification of nerves
• Structure of skeletal muscle
• Molecular mechanism of muscle contraction
• Neuromuscular transmission
• Properties of skeletal muscle

Digestive System

• Introduction to digestion
• Salivary glands
• Stomach
• Exocrine Pancreas
• Liver
• Gall bladder
• Large intestine
• Motor functions of GIT

Excretory System

• Structure & functions of the kidney
• Formation of Urine
• Tubular secretion
• Role of the kidney in the regulation of the pH of the blood
• Micturition

Endocrinology

• General endocrinology
• Hormones of the anterior pituitary
• Posterior pituitary
• Thyroid
• Adrenal cortex & Medulla

Production

• Sex differentiation
• Female reproductive system
• Lactation, the composition of milk

Cardio Vascular System

• Functional anatomy and innervation of heart Properties of cardiac Muscle Origin
• Electrocardiogram
• Cardiac cycle
• Heart sounds
• Heart rate
• Arterial blood pressure

Respiratory System

• Physiology of Respiration
• Respiratory movements
• Mechanics of breathing
• Spirometry
• Pulmonary ventilation
• Exchange of gases
• Regulation of respiration

Central Nervous System

• Organisation of the central nervous system
• The neuronal organization at the spinal cord level
• Synapse receptors, reflexes, sensations and tracts
• Formation and functions of CSF
• Autonomic nervous system

Human Biochemistry, Nutrition and Dietetics

• Chemistry of Carbohydrates
• Chemistry of Lipids
• Chemistry of Proteins
• Enzymes
• Vitamins
• Hemoglobins
• Nucleic Acids
• Biological Oxidations
• Nutrition
• Energy Metabolism
• Mineral Metabolism
• Metabolic Regulation
• Structural components & blood proteins
• Medical Biochemistry
• Genetics

3. Dental Anatomy, Embryology and Oral Histology

Dental Anatomy

• Introduction
• Maxillary Incisor
• Mandibular Incisor
• Maxillary / Mandibular Canine
• Maxillary Premolar
• Mandibular Premolar
• Maxillary molar
• Mandibular molar
• Occlusion
• Morphology of individual deciduous tooth

Dental Histology

• Histotechniques
• Development of face and oral cavity(Embryology)
• Development of teeth
• Enamel
• Dentin
• Maxilla and Mandible
• Eruption and shedding
• Pulp
• Cementum
• Maxillary sinus
• Salivary glands
• Periodontal ligament
• Oral Mucous Membrane
• Temporomandibular Joint
• Muscles of Mastication and Deglutition

BDS Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for admission to a BDS ( Bachelor of Dental Surgery ) can vary significantly based on the college and university so here are some common eligibility criteria to join BDS Course.

1. Educational Qualifications

Students must have completed 12th science with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English( PCBE ) from a recognized board to get admission to the BDS program.

2. Minimum Percentage or Grade

The minimum percentage or grade requirement for a BDS course can vary based on the specific institution you are applying to.

It often ranges between 50% to 60% aggregate marks in the 10+2 (or equivalent) examination, depending on the college and category.

3. Entrance Exam

BDS students are required to take entrance exams specific to dental programs. NEET-UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is compulsory for admission to the BDS course, without NEET you can not get admission to the BDS course.

4. Reservation Quotas

For students from these categories ( ST, SC, OBC, EWS, etc. ) specific reservation quotas might have relaxation in terms of marks, age, fees, etc.

5. Documents Required

Students will need to verify and submit various documents such as a 10th and 12th mark sheet, NEET scorecard, caste certificate, proof of age, identity proof, and other relevant documents.

Age Limit for BDS Course

Candidates usually need to be at least 17( Seventeen ) years old at the time of admission in order to pursue the BDS ( Bachelor of Dental Surgery ) course.

Generally, there is no specific upper age limit for entry into dental school to get admission to the BDS course.

BDS Course Duration

The BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) course duration is typically 5 years that covers both theoretical and practical components.

The first 4 years include classroom lectures, practical training, and clinical rotations, covering various aspects of dental science and 1-year compulsory internship.

The first 4 years are all about an academic study that focuses to build a strong base related to dentistry.

During 1 year of internship, the students have to work in hospitals, dental clinics, and other healthcare places to improve their practical abilities to provide safe and effective treatment.

Exam Type – Semester Wise

Each academic year is divided into two semesters, each semester covers a defined set of the subjects and syllabus of the year depending on the specific curriculum and institution.

The semester system provides a clear framework for tracking student progress and ensuring a comprehensive assessment of their knowledge and skills during that time period.

It has become widely adopted by many colleges and universities because it positively impacted focus learning, reducing pressure, skill development, continuous engagement, regular assessment, flexibility, and many more.

BDS Course Fees

The fees for BDS courses can vary significantly depending on the college or university based on their reputation, facilities provided, location, and other factors.

Government or public dental colleges generally offers lower tuition fees compared to private colleges for BDS ( Bachelor of Dental Surgery ) course and it can change from year to year.

₹50K – 3 Lakhs as per institute or state ( Government )

₹3 Lakhs – 12 Lakhs as per institute or state ( Private )

Salary after BDS Course

The salary after completing a BDS course can vary based on several factors, including the location of the service, type of practice, based on experience and skills, knowledge, expertise, and the demand for dental services in that area.

Here are approximate figures based on the particular sectors and roles which can change over time.

1. Government Sector

Dentists who want to work in government hospitals or clinics have salaries ranging from ₹30K – ₹50K per month and this can change depending on the level of government position.

2. Private Sector

Dentists who work in private dental clinics or establish their own private practices have the potential to earn significantly more.

Basically, it depends upon the reputation you have built, your experience and expertise, and what number of patients you can see.

So considering all these points you can earn anywhere ranging from ₹50K to ₹1.5 Lakh per month.

3. Academic/Teaching Roles

After completing the BDS course, dentists who go for the teaching sector and join any academy with salaries starting from ₹35K to ₹50K.

4. Consulting and Corporate Dentistry

Dentists who want to work as consultants for dental product companies, corporate dental chains, and dental insurance providers can earn anywhere from ₹30K to ₹50K per month.

5. Specialization

Dentists who want to pursue postgraduate degree courses in specialization (MDS) in fields like orthodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, etc.

They can get higher salaries from ₹50K to ₹2 Lakhs due to their specialized skills.

6. Experience and Reputation

Your salary as a dentist can increase significantly over time as you gain experience and build a strong reputation in your chosen specialized field.

Your experience and reputation can increase your demand and eventually, that can contribute to your higher earning potential.

Their salaries can range from ₹50K to ₹1.5 lakh or more per month.

Advantages of BDS Course

The BDS course offers numerous advantages, so you have to ensure that you should have a genuine interest in dentistry and a commitment to learning and improving throughout your career.

1. Healthcare Profession

The dentist is a noble profession that allows you to directly help people improve their oral health by checkups, cleaning, treating cavities, fixing teeth, and providing oral health education.

2. Job Opportunities

As a Dentist, you have chances of getting job opportunities globally after completing the BDS course.

3. Job Security

The need for dental care is ongoing, so no need to worry about job security.

4. Varied Specializations

After the BDS course, you can choose to specialize in the most interesting areas like oral surgery, Endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, Oral Medicine and Radiology, Aesthetic Dentistry, and Aesthetic Dentistry.

5. Financial Reward

As a dentist, you can find it financially rewarding, especially with growing dental health awareness and the need for quality oral care.

6. Own Clinic

You can open your own dental clinics and find autonomy to manage your practice.

7. Skill Development

The BDS course equips you with various clinical and practical skills, including patient treatment, technical expertise, and problem-solving.

8. Flexible Work Hours

As per your practice, you might have flexibility in setting your work hours and getting time for your personal life.

9. Community Impact

As a dentist, you can get a chance to positively impact your community by providing oral health and treating dental problems.

10. Continual Learning

Dentistry is a field that constantly evolves with new techniques and technologies, ensuring you’ll always have opportunities to learn and grow.

11. Respect and Recognition

As a dentist, you can get respect from society due to your role in treating people’s oral health.

12. Personal Satisfaction

As a dentist, you can help patients to regain their smiles, and reducing dental pain can be personally fulfilling.

13. International Opportunities

A BDS degree from India can provide opportunities abroad for further studies, specialization, or practice.

14. Diverse Work Environments

As a dentist, you can work in various fields including private clinics, hospitals, research institutions, and academic positions.

Disadvantages of the BDS Course

Along with the advantages, there are also disadvantages and challenges of the BDS course that you should be aware of.

1. Competitive Entrance Exams

Getting admission into a good college/university that offers BDS courses can be highly competitive, and requires high scores in entrance exams.

2. Long Course Duration

BDS is a 5-year long duration course, which can feel like a significant commitment, especially if you’re eager to start working sooner, so you need to keep patience.

3. High Responsibility

Dentists are responsible for the oral health and well-being of their patients, which can be highly responsible work.

4. Emotional Stress

As a dentist, you have to deal with patients’ pain, dental anxiety, and unexpected complications that can be an emotional challenge for you.

5. Patient Management Challenges

As a dentist, you may have to face Managing difficult patients, communicating complex procedures, and dealing with patient expectations can be challenging.

6. Financial Costs

If you are from low-income background then Pursuing a BDS course can be expensive for you, that includes tuition fees, equipment costs, and other related expenses.

Important Skills for BDS Course

1. Problem-Solving Abilities

Dentists have to face complex cases that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills to determine the best treatment options for patients.

2. Communication Skills

As a dentist, you should have effective communication to explain procedures, treatment plans, and post-treatment care, and build rapport with patients.

3. Strong Scientific Foundation

Dentists require a solid understanding of basic sciences like anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, and physiology is essential for dealing with the complexities of dental treatments and oral health.

4. Teamwork and Collaboration

As a dentist, you have to work effectively in a team is crucial because dental treatments often involve interdisciplinary collaboration with dental assistants, dental hygienists, and other healthcare professionals.

5. Time Management

It requires effective time management to balance coursework, clinical duties, and practical sessions.

6. Empathy and Patience

Dentists should have empathy, patience, and the ability to make patients feel comfortable is essential for a positive experience because dental procedures can be nervous, Discomforted, or even painful for patients.

Career Opportunities after BDS Course

After completing the BDS ( Bachelor of Dental Surgery ) course, you will have several career opportunities to choose from the dentistry fields that can increase your earning potential, overall well-being, and good quality of life.

1. General Dental Practice

Dental general practice can be a fulfilling career choice that allows you to provide essential dental care by opening your own dental clinic or joining an established practice. You can build a patient base, and have greater control over your work environment.

2. Specialization Practice

After the BDS course, you can pursue further specialization in various areas of dentistry. So you can go for postgraduate education (MDS or equivalent) in fields such as orthodontics, prosthodontics, periodontics, pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics, etc.

3. Academia and Research Area

If you’re interested in teaching and research, you can join dental colleges and universities as a faculty member after completing the bds course.

You can go for further education, such as a Master’s or Ph.D. in a dental specialty or related field because that involves training future dentists while conducting research in dental sciences.

4. Dental Industry

You can work for dental industries that deal with dental equipment and material manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and pharmaceutical products which include medications, vaccines, medical devices, and other healthcare-related products.

5. Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry includes products and procedures related to improving the appearance of teeth, gums, and smiles. It mainly focuses on enhancing the aesthetic aspects of a person’s oral health.

Here are some key areas like teeth whitening, veneers, and smile makeovers that can attract patients seeking aesthetic improvements.

6. Dental Journalism

Dentists can use their dental knowledge with writing skills to become dental journalists, writing reports, blogs, and articles about oral health and dental advancements.

7. Consultancy and Training

You can make more money by offering consultancy services to dental practices or conducting training sessions on new techniques and technologies.

Top Colleges for BDS Course

1. Manipal College of Dental Science, Mangalore
2. University School of Management Studies, New Delhi
3. SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
4. Shri Ramchandra University, Chennai
5. Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bengaluru
6. KIIT University, Bhubaneswar
7. Maulana Azad of the Institute of Dental Science, New Delhi
8. NIMS University, Jaipur
9. KGMU – King George’s Medical University, Lucknow
10. Nair Hospital Dental College, Mumbai

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