Join As A Dental Officer: Dental Jobs in Indian Army

Last updated on November 9th, 2023 at 10:54 pm

It is a dream for millions of BDS as well as MDS to get selected for Dental Jobs in Indian Army,

Joining as a dental officer is one of the highest paying government dental jobs . Indian army offers one of the highest salaries to BDS as compared to any private or government dental jobs in India.

The Indian Army Dental Corps plays a vital role in ensuring the dental health and well-being of the soldiers serving in the Indian Army.

If you too wish to join the ranks of Indian Army here are a few important points that you should keep in mind .

Most Important Considerations for Bds Government Jobs in Army

• First you need to secure more than 55% marks in your Final year BDS exam.
• Only If you are an MDS then 55% marks in BDS is NOT required.(After completing the MDS degree, your final BDS marks will not be a determining factor.)
• You need to qualify the NEET MDS exam with a very good score as you need to be in approximately the top 1000 ranks in NEET MDS.
• Thorough knowledge and expertise in dentistry are indispensable for successfully navigating the interview process
• Additionally, your confidence and presentation skills will be evaluated during the interview.
• Striking a balance between mental strength and humility is essential – you need to be mentally strong enough to join the army yet not overconfident or stubborn.
• There are special medical fitness criteria and you Need to be medically fit .(See the policy given below)
• You should also not have any visible tattoo. (See the policy given below.)

To view the Medical Criteria Click below

To view the Tattoo Policy Click below

Role of the Indian Army Dental Corps

The dental health of military personnel is crucial for maintaining their overall health, operational readiness, and morale.

The AD Corps play an essential role in maintaining the dental health of all soldiers and their families.

1. Readiness and Performance: Good oral health is essential for soldiers to perform their duties effectively.
2. Preventive Care: Regular check-ups, oral hygiene education, and preventive treatments help prevent dental issues and maintain optimal oral health.
3. Emergency Dental Care: In military operations, soldiers may face dental emergencies due to injuries or accidents. The Dental Corps is responsible for providing immediate dental care during such situations to relieve pain, prevent complications, and ensure swift recovery.
4. Dental Readiness for Deployment: Before deployment, soldiers undergo comprehensive dental examinations to identify and address any existing dental issues.
5. Dental Prosthetics and Restorations: The Dental Corps is equipped to provide dental prosthetics and restorations when required. This includes procedures such as dental implants, dentures, and other restorative treatments to restore oral function and improve the quality of life for soldiers.
6. Oral Health Education: The Dental Corps also emphasizes the importance of oral health education among military personnel. Promoting good oral hygiene practices and raising awareness about dental health helps soldiers maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental issues.

Official Website: https://joinindianarmy.nic.in/Authentication.aspx

Helpline Number: 011-21411064

Email: tusker2@nic.in

Becoming a Dental Officer in the Indian Army is a prestigious opportunity that requires meeting certain eligibility criteria and going through a rigorous selection process.

Typically every year there are about only 30-40 seats for Short Service Commission (SSC) in Army Dental Corps governed by Govt. of India, Ministry of Defence

Here’s an elaboration on the process:

Educational qualifications required:

1. To be eligible for the position of Dental Officer in the Indian Army, candidates must have completed a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS).
2. The degree should be registered with the Dental Council of India (DCI) or State Dental Council.
3. Candidates should have secured a mandatory minimum of 55% marks in final year BDS (aggregate of all subjects) or they should have an MDS Degree.
4. Candidate must have mandatorily appeared in the National Eligibility-cum Entrance Test, NEET (MDS) – New Delhi, and should have ticked “YES” for Short Service Commission (SSC) in AD Corps option while filling of NEET MDS application form.

Age limits

Candidates should be less than 45 years of age on 31st December of the year of applying.

Written examination :

Candidates need to appear for a written examination, National Eligibility-cum Entrance Test, NEET (MDS), conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), New Delhi, as the first part of the selection process.

Interview:

Candidates are shortlisted according to their marks in the NEET MDS exam.

For every vacancy ten candidates are called for interview.Which means that if there are 30 dental posts then 300 candidates will be called for interview.

Medical examination and fitness criteria:

The final merit list for Grant of SSC in Army Dental Corps will be based on the performance in the interview alone.(NEET MDS marks are not taken into consideration for interview)

The candidates who qualify in the interview will be subjected to Medical Examination.

Physical fitness requirements, including standards for height, weight, vision, and overall fitness, are assessed during the medical examination stage.

Every candidate will have to mandatorily undergo a Medical Examination by a duly constituted Medical Board of Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) for ascertaining his/her medical fitness as per laid down medical standards for commissioning.

The decision of the Medical Board will be final.

Medically unfit candidates (temporary unfit)

In case of a candidate being declared temporarily medically unfit by the Special Medical Board (SMB), there is a procedure for a time period of 42 days to achieve medical fitness.(for example if weight is above the given range or dental health is not appropriate, eyesight or hearing problems present or minor surgical procedure required).

Candidates can request for Appeal Medical Board (AMB) after a maximum of 42 days .

Candidates are intimated that the Review Medical Board (RMB) will be granted at the discretion of the DGAFMS based on the merit of the case & that RMB is not a matter of right.

Keep in mind that the process of becoming a Dental Officer in the Indian Army is highly competitive, and successful candidates are expected to exhibit exceptional academic qualifications, leadership potential, and a genuine passion for serving in the armed forces.

Commissioning of Dental Officers

Selected candidates/ Civilian Dental surgeons will be granted Short Service Commission in AD Corps in the rank of Captain.

The tenure of SSC Officers is five (05) years, extendable by another nine (09) years in two spells, first of five (05) years and second of four (04) years.(Total SSC tenure of fourteen (14) years).

Probation: An officer will be on probation for a period of 12 months .

Training for Dental Jobs in Indian Army

After commissioning, the candidates will be detailed for training at Govt. expense at AMC Centre & College, Lucknow

This Basic military training for Dental Officers includes

1. Introduction to military ethics and discipline

2. Weapons training and physical fitness drills

Career Growth and Opportunities for Dental Officers

Dental Officers in the Indian Army have opportunities for career growth and development within the Indian Army Dental Corps.

A candidate can appear for Permanent Commission in the Army after about 2 years in SSC.

Here’s an elaboration on the career growth and opportunities available to them:

Postings in various army establishments and units

Dental Officers are assigned to different army establishments and units throughout their career.

They may serve in field hospitals, base hospitals, dental centers, or dental clinics located in different parts of the country.

These postings provide them with diverse experiences and exposure to different operational environments.

Time-based promotions and merit-based opportunities:

Dental Officers have the opportunity for career advancement through time-based promotions, as per the regulations and policies of the Indian Army.

Promotions are based on the length of service, satisfactory performance, and fulfilling the required eligibility criteria.

Additionally, exceptional performance and demonstrated leadership qualities can create further merit-based opportunities for advancement.

Additional opportunities for specialization:(Including MDS)

Dental Officers can pursue advanced dental courses and degrees to further specialize in specific areas of dentistry.

This includes pursuing master’s degrees(MDS), fellowships, or diplomas in various dental specialties .

These advanced courses enhance their clinical skills, knowledge, and expertise, opening up opportunities for more specialized roles and responsibilities within the dental field.

Dental Officers also have opportunities to collaborate with civil dental institutions and research organizations for conducting dental research projects. .

The Indian Army Dental Corps emphasizes continuous professional development and provides avenues for Dental Officers to enhance their skills, knowledge, and expertise throughout their careers.

By actively participating in training programs, pursuing higher education, and engaging in research and academic collaborations, Dental Officers can expand their career opportunities and contribute to the field of dentistry.

Life as a Dental Officer in the Indian Army

Life as a Dental Officer in the Indian Army offers a unique work environment and a range of benefits.

Work environment and culture:

1. Camaraderie among Dental Officers and other military personnel: Dental Officers work closely with other military personnel, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. They become part of a close-knit community dedicated to serving the nation and supporting each other.
2. Importance of teamwork in delivering dental care: Dental Officers understand the significance of teamwork in providing dental care to military personnel. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and support staff, to ensure comprehensive and holistic care. The emphasis on teamwork contributes to a positive work environment and facilitates effective healthcare delivery.

Benefits and perks for Dental Officers:

Salary and allowances:

Dental Officers in the Indian Army receive a competitive salary and various allowances as per the 7th Pay Commission.

These allowances include medical allowances, accommodation allowances, transportation allowances, and others.

Dental Officers have access to comprehensive military healthcare facilities for themselves and their families.

They can avail medical services at military hospitals and healthcare centers.

Additionally, they are entitled to pension schemes and retirement benefits as per the regulations of the Indian Army.

Apart from the above, Dental Officers may also enjoy other perks and privileges associated with military service, such as subsidized accommodation, access to sports and recreational facilities, educational opportunities for their children through Army Schools, and opportunities for travel and exposure to different parts of the country during postings and deployments.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that life as a Dental Officer in the Indian Army involves commitment, dedication, and a sense of service to the nation. While the work environment and benefits can be rewarding, the role also requires meeting the expectations and standards of the Indian Army.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These are answers to some common doubts regarding dental jobs in Indian Army.

Also Read About How to Clear NEET MDS Exam. Click below

Also Read about Dental Jobs in Research in ICMR. Click Below