BDS Learning Outcomes & Graduate attributes

The Dental graduates during training in the institutions should acquire adequate knowledge, necessary skills and reasonable attitudes which are required for carrying out all activities appropriate to general dental practice involving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of anomalies and diseases of the teeth, mouth, jaws and associated tissues. The graduate also should understand the concept of community oral health education and be able to participate in the rural health care delivery programmes existing in the country.

The graduate should acquire the following during the period of training.

1. Adequate knowledge of the scientific foundations on which dentistry is based and good understanding of various relevant scientific methods, principles of biological functions and is able to evaluate and analyse scientifically various established facts and data.
2. Adequate knowledge of the development, structure and function of the teeth, mouth and jaws and associated tissues both in health and disease and their relationship and effect on general state of health and also bearing on physical and social wellbeing of the patient.
3. Adequate knowledge of clinical disciplines and methods which provide a coherent picture of anomalies, lesions and diseases of the teeth, mouth and jaws and preventive diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of dentistry.
4. Adequate clinical experience required for general dental practice.
5. Adequate knowledge of the constitution, biological function and behaviour of persons in health and sickness as well as the influence of the natural and social environment on the state of health in so far as it affect dentistry.

A graduate should be able to demonstrate the following skills necessary for practice of dentistry.

1. Able to diagnose and manage various common dental problems encountered in general dental practice keeping in mind the expectations and the right of the society to receive the best possible treatment available wherever possible.
2. Acquire the skill to prevent and manage complications if encountered while carrying out various surgical and other procedures.
3. Possess skill to carry out certain investigative procedures and ability to interpret laboratory findings.
4. Promote oral health and help prevent oral diseases where possible.
5. Competent in the control of pain and anxiety among the patients during dental treatment.

A graduate should develop during the training period the following attitudes.

1. Willing to apply the current knowledge of dentistry in the best interest of the patients and the community.
2. Maintain a high standard of professional ethics and conduct and apply these in all aspects of professional life.
3. Seek to improve awareness and provide possible solutions for oral health problems and needs throughout the community.
4. Willingness to participate in the CPED Programmes to update the knowledge and professional skill from time to time.
5. To help and participate in the implementation of the national oral health policy.

At the completion of the undergraduate training programme the graduates shall be competent in the following
General Skills

• Apply knowledge & skills in day to day practice
• Analyse the outcome of treatment
• Evaluate the scientific literature and information to decide the treatment

Participate and involve in professional bodies

• Self-assessment & willingness to update the knowledge & skills from time to time
• Involvement in simple research projects
• Minimum computer proficiency to enhance knowledge and skills
• Refer patients for consultation and specialized treatment
• Basic study of forensic odontology and geriatric dental problems

Practice Management

• Evaluate practice location, population dynamics & reimbursement mechanism ,Co-ordinate & supervise the activities of allied dental health personnel
• Maintain all records Implement & monitor infection control
• Practice within the scope of one’s competence

Communication & Community Resources

• Assess patients goals, values and concerns to establish rapport and guide patient care
• Able to communicate freely, orally and in writing with all concerned
• Participate in improving the oral health of the individuals through community activities

Patient Care- Diagnosis

• Obtaining patient’s both Dental and Medical history
• Performing thorough clinical examination
• Selection and interpretation of clinical, radiological and other diagnostic aids
• Obtaining appropriate consultation
• Arriving at provisional, differential and final diagnosis