Are you a BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) graduate from India looking to advance your dental career?
A Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program in the USA can increase your chances of landing a top job and give you advanced expertise.
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BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) is an undergraduate program in dentistry. At the same time, DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) is its equivalent or advanced degree in countries like the U.S. Completing BDS qualifies dentists to practice internationally. Still, DDS may be required for licensing in some regions, ensuring global standards in dental care.
Let’s talk numbers. Dentists in the USA with under two years of experience can earn an average of INR 11,581,549 annually, while those with 2-5 years of experience can increase their earnings by 29%, making around INR 14,831,049 per year.
Intrigued? Well, there’s more good news for BDS graduates like you. Pursuing DDS in the USA does not have to be a distant dream. This guide is designed to navigate the essential steps and critical differences you must understand for DDS in the USA for international students taking this transformative step.
Let’s explore how you can transition seamlessly from BDS to DDS and take your dental career to the next level.
Key Highlights
| Course Full Name | Doctor of Dental Surgery |
| DDS fees in USA | INR 8L to 70L |
| Exam Required | GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS |
| Course Duration | 4 years |
| Course Category | Post Graduate |
| GPA | 3.5 GPA or Grade C |
| DAT Score | 22-24 Overall |
| English Proficiency Requirements | IELTS: 6.5 to 7.5 overall score TOEFL iBT: 80 to 110 overall score |
| Annual Salary Range | INR 1 to 2 Crores |
Why Study DDS in USA?
Pursuing a DDS in the USA after BDS in India opens up a world of possibilities and benefits for aspiring dentists.
Here are some compelling reasons to consider DDS in USA for international students:
- Advanced Education: A DDS degree from the USA provides advanced education and training in dentistry. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips students with the latest knowledge and skills in the field.
- Advanced Education: The DDS program in the USA provides a comprehensive curriculum that equips students with the latest knowledge and skills in dentistry. 16 US universities are ranked among the top 70 globally for dentistry, with 14 in the top 50.
- Specialisation Options: The DDS program in the USA allows for specialisation in various fields, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, and endodontics, providing a pathway to expertise and career advancement.
- Career Prospects: Graduating with a DDS from the USA significantly boosts career prospects, with opportunities to work as a general dentist. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8.1% employment growth for dentists in the USA between 2020 and 2030, creating over 9,800 new jobs.
- Financial Stability: Dentists in the USA are among the highest-paid professionals, with an average annual salary ranging from INR 1 crore to 2 crores. This offers financial stability and a rewarding career path for those with a DDS degree.
Pathway for BDS Graduates to Pursue a DDS in the USA
International dentists doing DDS in the USA after BDS in India are going to open doors to practice in the US.
Since a BDS degree does not qualify international graduates to practice in the US, a DDS program, which provides clinical experience and US-specific dental training, is essential. This typically involves completing a 2-3 year DDS (Advanced Standing) program tailored for internationally trained dentists.
Let’s look at the key steps to for obtaining practice in the USA:
- Step 1: Pass the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE), replacing the older NBDE Parts I and II
- Step 2: Complete applications for Advanced Standing Programmes designed specifically for international dental graduates
- Step 3: Fulfil prerequisite courses and English proficiency tests as required by various dental schools
By following these steps and carefully planning your application process, BDS graduates can successfully pursue a DDS degree in the USA and open doors to a rewarding career in dentistry.
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Top Universities for DDS in USA
The United States offers a range of prestigious universities for those pursuing a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.
Moreover, US dental schools frequently rank among the top 50 globally, with institutions like UCSF, Harvard, and the University of Michigan often appearing in the top 10 for dental education.
Here are some of the top dental schools in the USA for international students, along with their QS ranking, annual fees, and acceptance rate.
| University | Acceptance Rate | Annual DDS Fees in USA |
| Harvard University | 4.70% | INR 5,416,450 |
| University of California San Francisco | 4.70% | INR 958,295 |
| New York University | 7.40% | INR 4,466,488 |
| University of North Carolina Chapel Hill | 25% | INR 5,583,110 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 9% | INR 6,458,075 |
| University of California Los Angeles | 14.30% | INR 1,583,270 |
DDS in USA: Eligibility & Application Process
To pursue a DDS in the USA for international students, a four-year bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution, vital academic records, competitive DAT scores and many other requirements.
Now, let’s look at the eligibility and admission requirements for pursuing a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) in the USA after completing a BDS degree:
- Bachelor’s Degree: A 4-year bachelor’s degree from renowned institution is required.
- Prerequisite Courses: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English/Writing-Intensive courses must be completed with a minimum grade of “C”.
- Dental Admission Test (DAT): DAT scores must be submitted within 3 years of the admission year.
- Enrol in a DDS/DMD Program: Complete a DDS/DMD program from an accredited dental school.
- Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE): Pass the NBDE for comprehensive licensure.
- Pass State-Level Dental Licensure Exams: Pass dental licensure exams at the state level.
- Gain Intern-Level Experience: Obtain intern-level experience by shadowing well-recognized dentists.
- Letters of Evaluation: Submit one committee evaluation letter or three individual letters, including two from science faculty members.
- Dental Shadowing: A minimum of 100 hours of dental shadowing is recommended.
- International Applicants: Foreign degree holders need a course-by-course evaluation from Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) and a minimum TOEFL score of 100.
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Admission Process for DDS in USA
The admission process for a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program in the USA typically involves several key steps:
- Apply through the ADEA AADSAS: The first step to becoming a dentist in the US is to apply through the ADEA AADSAS (Associated American Dental Schools Application Service). This service collects, verifies, and processes or distributes your application information to each institution you have applied to.
- Complete a Four-Year Bachelor’s Degree: Before applying to dental school, you must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree from a US or Canadian institution.
- Pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT): All dental schools in the US require the DAT, and some will accept the Canadian DAT. You must check with the individual colleges to see if the Canadian DAT is accepted.
- Submit Additional Information as Requested: Some colleges may require a supplemental application to obtain additional information from applicants.
- Participate in Interviews: Most dental schools require an interview as part of the admissions process. The process and schedule will vary by school, and mini-interviews may be conducted one-on-one, in groups, or multiple.
What is the Cost of Pursuing DDS in USA?
The DDS Cost in the USA can vary significantly based on school choice, location, and personal lifestyle.
Investing in a DDS program in the USA as an international student represents a significant financial commitment. The annual tuition fees at US dental schools generally range between INR 8L to 70L. This investment in education reflects the high-quality training and advanced facilities that these programs offer.
Some schools offer advanced standing programs for international students who have completed a BDS. These programs generally last two to three years instead of four years for a traditional DDS, which can reduce the total tuition cost.
What is Cost of Living in USA?
The cost of living can vary widely depending on the dental school’s location. Urban areas like New York City or San Francisco have much higher living costs than smaller cities or towns.
Typical monthly expenses might include:
| Category | Average Cost Range (INR) |
| Housing | INR 58,341 – 166,690 |
| Utilities | INR 8,334 – 16,669 |
| Food and groceries | INR 25,003 – 50,007 |
| Transportation | INR 4,167 – 12,501 |
| Health insurance | INR 8,334 – 41,672 |
Scholarships that Reduce Cost for DDS in USA
When pursuing a DDS program in the USA after completing BDS, international students can access various scholarship opportunities to help fund their education. These scholarships can be categorised into government-funded programs and university-specific scholarships.
Let’s look at these scholarships:
Government Scholarships for DDS in the USA
Government scholarships for DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) programs in the USA financially support students pursuing dental education.
These scholarships aim to reduce educational costs and often target specific demographics, such as underrepresented groups or those committed to serving underserved communities.
Now, let’s look at some of the government-funded dental scholarships in the USA:
| Scholarship Name | Amount (USD) |
| Health Profession Scholarship Program (HPSP) | Covers full tuition and fees |
| Indian Health Service Scholarships | Covers full tuition and fees |
| National Health Service Corps Scholarship | Covers full tuition and fees, plus a monthly stipend |
| Students to Service Loan Repayment Program | Up to INR 10,011,048 in loan repayment |
University Scholarships for DDS in the USA
Universities often offer scholarships for Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) programs in the USA to support students financially. These can be merit-based, rewarding academic excellence or outstanding achievements, or need-based, assisting students with demonstrated financial need.
Now, look at some of the university-funded dental scholarships in the USA.
| Scholarship Name | Amount (USD) |
| Dental Trade Alliance Foundation Scholarship | INR 417,127 – INR 2,085,635 |
| ADEA/Crest Oral-B Scholarship for Dental Students Pursuing Academic Careers | INR 458,839 |
| ADA Foundation Dental Student Scholarship | INR 834,254 – INR 1,668,508 |
| Kool Smiles Scholarship | INR 417,127 |
| ADEA/GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Preventive Dentistry Scholarship | INR 208,563 |
| Dean’s Scholarship (University of Pennsylvania) | Varies |
Will DDS in USA Lead to High-Paying Jobs?
Earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in the USA can lead to high-paying jobs. Dentistry is one of the most lucrative healthcare professions due to the demand for dental services and the specialised skills required.
Below are some key points about how a DDS degree can translate into financial success:
- Specialised Dentistry: Pursue advanced training in orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, pediatric dentistry, or periodontics.
- Dental Academia and Research: Engage in teaching, research, and innovation within dental schools and research institutions.
- Dental Administration and Consulting: Utilise clinical expertise in practice management, insurance consulting, or regulatory roles.
- Public Health Dentistry: Work in community health centres, government agencies, or non-profit organisations to improve oral health on a broader scale.
- International Dentistry: Explore opportunities to practise dentistry globally, participate in humanitarian missions, or work in international dental organisations.
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Specialise in enhancing smiles through aesthetic treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, and cosmetic bonding.
- Dental Public Policy: Advocate for oral health policies, contribute to dental associations, or shape regulations that impact the dental profession.
These career options offer international students the opportunity to use their dental skills and knowledge to positively impact the dental health of patients and communities.
Top DDS Jobs
The career options for Indian dentists in the US are both robust and growing, driven by rising demand for oral health services, a focus on preventive care, and an ageing population that requires more dental care.
| Did you know that according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for dentists is projected to grow by 5% over the next decade, with over 4900 new jobs expected to open by 2033? |
Let’s look at some of the job profiles with their respective salary.
| Job Title | Average Salary (per annum) |
| Dental Assistant | INR 3,500,490 |
| Dental Front Office Manager | INR 4,195,503 |
| Dental Hygienist | INR 6,500,910 |
| Dental Laboratory Technician | INR 3,750,525 |
| Dental Receptionist | INR 2,667,040 |
| Dental Sales Rep | INR 3,333,800 |
Top Recruiters for DDS Graduates in USA
Around 15% of dentists in the U.S. are self-employed in private practices, highlighting the field’s potential for entrepreneurship and practice ownership.
While that is true, let’s look at the top recruiters for DDS in USA:
| Dental Practice | Annual Salary (USD) |
| Rewards Dental | INR 27,920,575 |
| Curative | INR 36,838,490 |
| Bear Creek Family Dentistry | INR 24,670,120 |
| Risas Dental and Braces | INR 23,669,980 |
Preparing for DDS in the USA: Tips and Suggestions
Embarking on a journey to pursue a DDS in the USA after completing a BDS from India requires meticulous planning and preparation.
Here are some essential tips and suggestions to enhance your chances of securing admission to a dental school in the USA:
By following these tips and suggestions, you can better prepare yourself for the competitive process of pursuing a DDS in the USA after completing your BDS in India.
Frequently Asked Question
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Q. What is the minimum GPA requirement for dentistry school?
A. A. The minimum GPA requirement for consideration into USA dentistry programs typically starts at 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, to be competitive, applicants should have a higher GPA. Most schools calculate both an overall GPA and a science-specific GPA, emphasising your performance in science courses relevant to the field of dentistry. It’s crucial to check specific requirements for each school as they can vary slightly.
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Q. What are the Dental Admission Test (DAT) and other mandatory tests for admission?
A. The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is a fundamental component of the application process for dental schools in the U.S. Dental schools usually expect the DAT scores to be recent, generally within the last two to three years. To meet the admission requirements, it’s recommended that candidates take the DAT no later than December before the application deadline. This allows adequate time for scores to be processed and included in your application.
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Q. What factors must be kept in mind when selecting a dental school?
A. When selecting a dental school, consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum relevance, faculty expertise, facilities and technology available, location, cost, and opportunities for clinical experience. Additionally, evaluate the school’s support services for international students, especially those coming from a BDS background in India. Prospective students should also look at the pass rates of graduates on licensure exams and the school’s reputation in the dentistry community.
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Q. What qualifications are needed to become a dentist?
A. To become a dentist in the USA, one must complete an accredited dental program and earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry/Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. This is followed by passing the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) for licensure. Some states may require additional state-specific exams or an ethics exam. Continuous education is also necessary to maintain licensure.
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Q. Which course is better – DDS or DMD?
A. Both DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine) degrees are equivalent and involve the same scope of practice. The difference in naming is dependent on what the issuing institution prefers, but both degrees meet the same curriculum requirements and prepare students for a career in dentistry.
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Q. Is the BDS program from India recognised in the USA?
A. The BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) degree from India is not directly recognized in the USA for clinical practice. Indian graduates must complete an advanced standing or international dentist program (typically 2-3 years) to earn a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited U.S. dental school before they can practice dentistry in the USA.
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Q. Is dentistry a good career in the USA?
A. Dentistry is considered a rewarding and well-compensated career in the USA. It offers job stability, a high earning potential, and the opportunity to help improve patients’ oral health and overall well-being. Dentists consistently rank high in job satisfaction surveys and are among the top earners in the healthcare sector.
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Q. What is the duration of the dentistry course in the USA?
A. The typical course duration for a DDS or DMD program in the USA is four years for students entering from a relevant pre-dental undergraduate program. However, for international students with a BDS degree from India, transitioning through an advanced standing program usually requires an additional 2-3 years of study.
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Q. How much is the DDS fee in the USA for Indian students?
A. The fees for a DDS program in the USA vary significantly depending on whether the institution is public or private. For international students, including those from India, fees can range from approximately ₹2,499,810 to over ₹5,832,890 per year. It’s advisable to seek detailed fee structures directly from the respective dental schools.
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Q. How much does a dentist earn in the USA?
A. Dentists in the USA are among the highest earners in the healthcare sector. The median annual wage for dentists is typically around ₹13,332,320, but this can vary widely by specialisation and region. Experienced specialists can earn substantially more, particularly in areas like orthodontics or oral surgery.
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Q. How can students manage the cost of living in the USA while preparing for DDS?
A. Students can manage the cost of living through various means such as scholarships, part-time jobs, student loans, and budget management strategies. Many dental schools also offer financial aid programs specifically for international students. Additionally, living in areas with a lower cost of living and sharing accommodations can help manage expenses effectively.
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