Doctor of Dental Surgery
1.What does the dental surgeon do?
He creates Oral Health for the Community through Oral Health Promotion, Treatment of Oral Diseases including the teeth, the jaw bones and the soft tissues of the mouth, and Dental Public Health measures in the Community for the prevention of oral diseases.
2.The impression I have is that the dental degree programme is very tough. Is it true?
It is an intensive course. There is plenty to learn in the five years at the University. It takes a lot of hard work to do well. If you are really interested it is very rewarding.
3. Is extraction (pulling teeth) the main function of the dental surgeon?
In the days of long ago when oral health was not a priority and the number of dental surgeons were so few, pain and suffering due to tooth ache was common, many patients needed extraction. To-day things are different. The dental surgeons are doing much more exciting things for the dental patients.
4. Is there night calls for the dental surgeon?
Dental surgeons working in the government hospitals and clinics have to take their turn to answer night calls. In the private sector the dental surgeons regulate their own working hours.
5. How is the income of the dental surgeon?
The income is good and commensurate with the responsibilities of the dental surgeon.
6. Do you need a lot of money to start a private dental clinic?
The capital expenditure depends on the type of equipment you wish to purchase. The investment is quite substantial, but affordable. Loans are available.
