Medical & Allied Health · Dental

Orthodontist

⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses and corrects crooked teeth and jaw alignment using braces, aligners, and other appliances. In India, this is a postgraduate dental career after BDS, with opportunities in hospitals, clinics, colleges, and private practice.

Who it's for: Best for students who like biology, patient care, precision work, and long-term specialist training. It suits those comfortable with clinical study after BDS and interested in cosmetic as well as functional dental treatment.

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At a glance

Entry mode: Government Exam
Exam shape: national
Key exam: NEET UG
Min qualification: BDS+MDS
Duration: 8.5 yr
Starting salary: 6-15 LPA (approx, as of 2025; higher in private practice and metro cities)
Sector: Govt/Private
Category: Medical & Allied Health

Subjects / Stream

BiologyChemistryPhysicsEnglishDental SurgeryClinical Dentistry

Step-by-step path

  1. Complete Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  2. Qualify NEET UG and join a BDS course.
  3. Finish BDS, including internship and registration with the State Dental Council/DCI-linked process as applicable.
  4. Qualify NEET MDS and secure admission to MDS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics.
  5. Complete MDS training and clinical dissertation/work requirements.
  6. Apply for jobs in dental colleges, hospitals, corporate clinics, or start specialist practice after registration.

Key exams

NEET UG - admissionNEET MDS - postgraduate admissionState counselling - seat allotmentDental council registration - practice

Top institutes / boards

AIIMSMaulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, DelhiKing George's Medical University, LucknowGovernment Dental College and Hospital, MumbaiManipal College of Dental SciencesSaveetha Dental College and Hospitals

Similar careers

ProsthodontistPeriodontistEndodontistPedodontistGeneral Dentist
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Frequently asked questions

What is an orthodontist in India?
An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in correcting teeth and jaw alignment using braces, aligners, and related appliances.
What is the minimum qualification to become an orthodontist?
The usual path is BDS followed by MDS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics.
Is NEET UG required for orthodontist career?
Yes. NEET UG is needed for admission to BDS, which is the first step toward becoming an orthodontist.
Which exam is needed after BDS for orthodontics?
NEET MDS is the main national entrance exam for admission to MDS orthodontics seats in India.
Can I become an orthodontist directly after Class 12?
No. You must first complete BDS, then MDS in orthodontics.
How many years does it take to become job-ready?
Usually about 8.5 years after Class 12, including BDS, internship, and MDS.
What subjects should I study in school for this career?
Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are essential. English and strong communication skills also help.
Is there an age limit for NEET UG or NEET MDS?
Age rules can change by exam and category. Check the latest official NEET UG and NEET MDS information bulletin for the current year.
What is the scope of orthodontics in India?
Scope is good in dental colleges, hospitals, corporate clinics, and private practice, especially in cities and growing towns.
What is the starting salary of an orthodontist in India?
Fresh orthodontists may earn about 6-15 LPA in 2025, depending on city, employer, and experience.
Can orthodontists work in government jobs?
Yes. They can work in government dental colleges, hospitals, and public health institutions, subject to recruitment rules.
Can girls become orthodontists?
Yes. Orthodontics is open to all genders, and many women work successfully as orthodontists in India.
Is orthodontics a good career for someone who likes cosmetic dentistry?
Yes. Orthodontics combines aesthetics and function, so it suits students interested in smile correction and facial harmony.
How much does BDS and MDS usually cost in India?
Fees vary widely by college type and quota. Government seats are usually much lower than private seats; check the latest college-wise fee structure.
Are reservations available in NEET-based dental admissions?
Yes. Reservation policies may apply in government institutions as per central, state, and institutional rules.
Do I need to clear any licensing or registration after BDS and MDS?
Yes. You need valid dental registration to practice, and you should follow the rules of the relevant dental council and state authority.
What are the main skills needed for orthodontics?
Patience, fine hand skills, attention to detail, communication, and the ability to manage long treatment plans are important.
Is orthodontics better in private practice or government service?
Private practice may offer higher earning potential, while government service offers stability, fixed pay, and academic opportunities.
Which institutes are best for orthodontics in India?
Top options include AIIMS, Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, KGMU, Government Dental College Mumbai, and reputed private dental colleges.
Is orthodontist the right career for me?
Choose it if you enjoy biology, patient interaction, and long training for a specialist medical career. If you want quick entry into work, it may not suit you.

Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.

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