PhD in Dentistry: Admission, Eligibility, Syllabus, Scope and Salary

A PhD in Dentistry is a doctoral degree that focuses on advanced research and knowledge in the field of dental sciences. It's designed for individuals who want to contribute significantly to the field through original research and innovation.

After completing a PhD, people can work as researchers, professors, or in other specialised roles in dentistry.

PhD Full Form

PhD full form is the Doctor of Philosophy. It's a high-level academic degree awarded to individuals who have conducted original research and significantly contributed to a specific field of study. In the case of a PhD in Dentistry, this means conducting advanced research in dental science, such as exploring new dental materials, developing innovative treatment techniques, or investigating the causes of oral diseases.

PhD in Dentistry Overview

A PhD in Dentistry is a research-oriented program designed to advance dental science through original research. It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to contribute significantly to the field.

By pursuing a PhD in Dentistry, individuals can contribute to advancing dental science, improving oral health, and making a lasting impact.

PhD in Dentistry Syllabus

The syllabus for a PhD in Dentistry can vary depending on the specific university and program. However, it typically includes a combination of coursework, research, and a dissertation. Here's a general overview of the core areas you might encounter:

Coursework:

• Research Methodology: This covers topics like research design, data collection methods, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations in research.
• Advanced Dental Sciences: This could include specialized courses in oral pathology, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, or dental materials.
• Biomedical Sciences: This might involve courses in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, or microbiology, focusing on their relevance to oral health.
• Biostatistics: This course covers advanced statistical methods for analyzing dental research data.

Research:

• Dissertation Research: This is the core component of a PhD program, where you conduct original research on a specific dental topic. This involves formulating a research question, designing a study, collecting and analyzing data, and writing a dissertation.

Additional Components:

• Seminars and Conferences: You may be required to attend and present at seminars, conferences, and workshops to stay updated on the latest research and developments in dentistry.
• Teaching: Some programs may offer opportunities to teach undergraduate or postgraduate dental students, providing valuable pedagogical experience.
• Clinical Practice: Depending on the program, you might have the opportunity to engage in clinical practice, either as part of your research or as a teaching assistant.

It's important to note that the specific courses and their depth may vary based on your research interests and the program's focus. Some programs may offer more specialized courses in areas like dental implants, orthodontics, or pediatric dentistry.

PhD in Dentistry Eligibility

To be eligible for a PhD in Dentistry program, you typically need to meet the following criteria:

1. Master's Degree:

• A Master's degree in Dental Surgery (MDS) or a related field from a recognized university.

2. Minimum Marks:

• A minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent CGPA) in your MDS or qualifying examination.
• In some cases, a relaxation of 5% may be provided for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer) and differently-abled candidates.

3. Entrance Exam:

• Many universities conduct their entrance exams to assess candidates' research aptitude and suitability for the program.
• Some institutions may also consider national-level exams like the UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) or CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test).

PhD in Dentistry Admission

The admission process for a PhD in Dentistry typically involves the following steps:

1. Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for a PhD in Dentistry in India, candidates typically must have completed a postgraduate degree in dentistry (MDS) with at least 55% marks for the general category and 50% for reserved categories.
2. Entrance Exam:
• Many universities conduct their entrance exams to assess candidates' research aptitude and suitability for the program.
• Some institutions may also consider national-level exams like the UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) or CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test).
3. Application Submission:
• Submit an application form along with the required documents, including academic transcripts, research experience certificates, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
• The statement of purpose should clearly outline your research interests, goals, and motivation.
4. Shortlisting: Based on the entrance exam scores, academic records, and statement of purpose, universities shortlist eligible candidates.
5. Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be called for a personal interview to assess their communication skills, research aptitude, and suitability for the program.
6. Final Selection: The final selection is based on a combination of factors, including the entrance exam score, academic performance, research experience, interview performance, and the relevance of the proposed research topic.

By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you can increase your chances of securing admission to a prestigious PhD in Dentistry program.

PhD in Dentistry Entrance Exams

While there isn't a single, standardized national-level entrance exam specifically for PhD in Dentistry, several exams and university-specific tests are commonly used for admission:

National-Level Exams:

• UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test): The University Grants Commission conducts this exam twice a year as a common eligibility criterion for many PhD programs, including Dentistry.
• CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test): Similar to UGC NET, CSIR NET is another national-level exam that can be considered for PhD admissions.

University-Specific Exams:

Many universities conduct entrance exams to assess candidates' research aptitude and suitability for their PhD programs. These exams may include written tests, interviews, or a combination of both.

Best University for PhD in Dentistry in India

Why Choose Teerthanker Mahaveer University for PhD?

Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), established in 2008 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, is a distinguished private institution offering a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including engineering. Pursuing a PhD in Engineering at TMU presents several advantages:

1. Accreditation and Recognition

• NAAC 'A' Grade Accreditation: TMU has been awarded an 'A' grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), reflecting its commitment to academic excellence.
• High Rankings: The university is ranked 19th among the top private universities in India by Times B School and 11th for medicine and allied courses by the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF).

2. Comprehensive PhD Programs

• Diverse Specializations: TMU offers PhD programs in various engineering disciplines, allowing candidates to pursue research in their specific areas of interest.
• Structured Admission Process: The university conducts a Research Aptitude Test (TRAT) for PhD admissions, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection process.

3. Research Facilities and Support

• Business Incubation Centre: TMU has established a Business Incubation Centre to support aspiring entrepreneurs, providing resources and guidance to transform innovative ideas into viable ventures. Visit  TMU Admissions
• Corporate Resource Center: The university's Corporate Resource Center offers employability enhancement sessions, preparing students for successful careers in academia and industry.

4. Experienced Faculty

• Qualified Mentors: TMU boasts a team of experienced faculty members who guide PhD scholars through their research journey, fostering an environment conducive to academic growth.

5. Holistic Development

• Interdisciplinary Opportunities: With over 150 programs across various fields, TMU encourages interdisciplinary research, enabling PhD candidates to collaborate across different domains.

As of nine months ago, the university has published a total of 2,016 scientific papers, which have collectively received 7,785 citations.

These publications span various disciplines, with notable contributions in medicine, biology, and engineering. Faculty members like Dr. Satyendra Arya, who has individually published 39 research papers in national and international journals, further exemplify the university's commitment to research excellence.

In summary, Teerthanker Mahaveer University's accredited status, diverse PhD offerings, robust research support, and experienced faculty make it a compelling choice for pursuing a PhD in Engineering.

Scope for PhD in Dentistry 

A PhD in Dentistry offers a wide range of opportunities for research, teaching, and clinical practice. Here are some of the potential career paths:

Salary for PhD in Dentistry

The salary for a PhD in Dentistry can vary significantly depending on factors such as:

• Specific Role: Whether you pursue academia, research, clinical practice, or industry.
• Experience: The number of years of experience post-PhD.
• Location: The geographical location can influence salary, with metropolitan areas often offering higher salaries.
• Employer: The type of employer, whether it's a public institution, private practice, or a corporation, can impact salary.

Generally, a PhD in Dentistry can lead to a lucrative career with a competitive salary. Here's a rough estimate of the potential salary range in India:

• Academic Positions:
• Assistant Professor: ₹10-15 lakhs per annum
• Associate Professor: ₹15-25 lakhs per annum
• Professor: ₹25-50 lakhs per annum or more
• Clinical Practice:
• Specialist Dentist: ₹10-20 lakhs per annum or more, depending on specialization and location.
• Consultant: ₹20-50 lakhs per annum or more, depending on experience and reputation.
• Research: Research Scientist: ₹8-15 lakhs per annum, depending on the organization and experience.

It's important to note that these are approximate figures, and actual salaries may vary. Additionally, as you gain more experience and expertise, your earning potential can significantly increase.

Conclusion

A PhD in Dentistry offers a fulfilling career with diverse opportunities in academia, research, and clinical practice. It empowers individuals to contribute to the advancement of dental science, improve oral health, and make a significant impact on society. With its rigorous academic program, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, Teerthanker Mahaveer University provides an excellent platform for aspiring dental researchers to excel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is PhD in dentistry?

Ans: A PhD in Dentistry is a doctoral degree that focuses on advanced research in dental science. It involves conducting original research, analyzing data, and publishing findings. This degree equips individuals with specialized knowledge and skills to contribute to the field of dentistry through teaching, research, or clinical practice.

Q2: Can I do PhD after BDS?

Ans: Yes, you can pursue a PhD after completing your BDS degree. While it's not a traditional route, some universities in India offer direct PhD programs for BDS graduates. However, it's crucial to research specific university requirements and eligibility criteria.

Q3: What is PhD full form?

Ans: PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy. It's a high-level academic degree awarded to individuals who have conducted original research and made significant contributions to a specific field of study.

Q4: What is PhD salary?

Ans: The salary for a PhD in Dentistry can vary significantly based on factors such as specific role, experience, location, and employer. In India, it can range from ₹10-15 lakhs per annum for academic positions to ₹10-20 lakhs per annum for clinical practice. However, with experience and expertise, salaries can increase substantially.