Steps to Pursue a Career in Oral Surgery and Explore Overseas Opportunities

Many students aspire to become oral surgeons, a challenging yet rewarding profession. If you are currently in your third year of dental school, it is a critical juncture to start making informed decisions that can significantly impact your future career. One of the first steps you should take is to secure a strong position for the NEET MDS (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Masters in Dental Science).

After securing a good rank in the NEET MDS, you can choose your speciality and college according to your preferences. Starting early, as the saying goes, helps you achieve multiple aspects of success. Diligent studying, passion, and commitment are key to mastering the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Consider seeking support from coaching institutes like PTBD Academy, which offers tailored courses for BDS (Bachelor of Dental Science) students aiming to crack NEET MDS entrance exams. These institutions can provide you with the resources and guidance necessary to excel in your academic pursuits.

Another consideration is the possibility of pursuing a job abroad after completing your MDS. Many dental graduates find valuable opportunities in countries where dental practices and research facilities are highly advanced and culturally accepting. However, this should be a decision made after completing your under-graduate education, when you have a clearer understanding of your career aspirations.

Your Third-Year Discoveries and Learnings

During your third year, you will begin to gain a more comprehensive understanding of dental subjects and their practical application in clinics. This is an excellent time to delve deeply into each subject and ensure you have a solid grasp of the fundamentals. Understanding the interconnectivity between all dental and medical subjects will help you become a well-rounded clinician and accumulate valuable information for your post-graduation studies.

While theory-based learning is crucial, practical skills such as proper diagnosis and performing minor extractions are equally important. Stick to standard textbooks instead of relying solely on notes, as they provide the necessary depth to build a strong foundation in your field. Final-year marks of all subjects play a significant role in ranking during the MDS entrance examination. Therefore, ensuring a strong performance in all subjects is vital.

Focus on Your Current Goals and Future Planning

It’s important to approach your journey with a long-term perspective, but at this stage, it’s too early to start actively thinking about post-graduation. Your final year in dental school will be challenging and pivotal, giving you the opportunity to reassess your career goals. Once you have completed your fourth-year BDS and gain practical experience through your internship, you will have a clearer understanding of what you want to achieve.

My advice is to focus on completing your fourth-year BDS diligently, and use your internship period to think about post-graduation. By taking the time to consider your options, you can make a more informed and strategic decision that aligns with your future aspirations.

Best of luck as you embark on this exciting journey towards becoming a successful oral surgeon and potentially exploring international opportunities.