NEET-MDS Courses and Pathways

NEET-MDS Details

Full Form and Purpose

Full Form: National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Master of Dental Surgery

Purpose: NEET-MDS is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) in India to select candidates for admission to postgraduate dental courses (MDS) in various specialties at government, private, and deemed dental colleges.

Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge

Overview

A postgraduate dental specialty dealing with the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of patients with missing or deficient teeth.

Focus

Designing and fabricating dental prostheses, such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant-supported restorations to restore aesthetics and function.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Periodontology

Overview

A specialty focused on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting bone structures of the teeth.

Focus

Managing periodontal diseases (e.g., gingivitis, periodontitis) and performing procedures like scaling, root planing, and periodontal surgeries.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Overview

A surgical specialty that involves the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the oral and maxillofacial region (mouth, jaws, and face).

Focus

Performing complex procedures like tooth extractions, jaw surgeries, facial trauma management, and treatment of oral cancers.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics

Overview

A branch of dentistry concerned with the conservation of teeth and treatment of dental caries, tooth decay, and pulp-related issues.

Focus

Procedures like root canal treatment, dental restorations (fillings, inlays, onlays), and aesthetic dentistry to preserve natural teeth.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics

Overview

A specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.

Focus

Using braces, aligners, and other appliances to correct malocclusions and improve facial aesthetics and bite functionality.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Oral Pathology and Microbiology

Overview

A specialty that deals with the study, diagnosis, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial region through laboratory analysis.

Focus

Histopathological diagnosis of oral lesions, including oral cancers, and research into the microbiological causes of oral diseases.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Public Health Dentistry

Overview

A non-clinical specialty focused on promoting oral health and preventing dental diseases at a community or population level.

Focus

Developing and implementing oral health programs, conducting epidemiological studies, and promoting preventive measures like fluoridation.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry

Overview

A specialty dedicated to the dental care of children from infancy through adolescence, including those with special needs.

Focus

Managing pediatric dental issues, such as tooth decay and developmental anomalies, and promoting preventive care like sealants and fluoride treatments.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process

Oral Medicine and Radiology

Overview

A specialty focused on the non-surgical management of oral diseases and the use of diagnostic imaging for oral and maxillofacial conditions.

Focus

Diagnosing oral mucosal diseases, salivary gland disorders, and interpreting dental radiographs (e.g., X-rays, CBCT) for treatment planning.

Educational Pathway

Admission Process