In a major reform in dental education and regulation, the Central government has replaced the Dental Council of India with the National Dental Commission (NDC), ushering in sweeping changes under the National Dental Commission Act, 2023.
The move is aimed at modernising dental education, improving transparency, and strengthening regulatory oversight across the country.
National Exit Test Mandatory for BDS Students
Under the new framework, final-year BDS students will be required to clear a National Exit Test (Dental):
- Acts as a licentiate exam to practice dentistry
- Serves as entrance for MDS (postgraduate) courses
This uniform exam is expected to standardise evaluation and improve quality in dental education.
Fee Regulation in Private Dental Colleges
The National Dental Commission is expected to introduce fee regulation:
- Applicable to 50% seats in private dental colleges and deemed universities
- Aimed at reducing high tuition costs
- Likely to benefit thousands of students
Digital ‘Live National Register’ for Dentists
A Live National Register is being planned to streamline professional mobility:
- Enables dentists to transfer registration across states easily
- Reduces bureaucratic hurdles
- Requires professionals to maintain updated digital profiles linked to a national ID
Overhaul of State Dental Councils
The new law mandates restructuring of state-level bodies:
- State Dental Councils must be reconstituted within one year
- Deadline set for March 2027
- Failure to comply may lead to loss of authority
Existing councils will continue handling registrations and renewals during the transition.
New Grievance Redressal System
The reform also introduces a two-tier grievance system:
- State Councils will handle initial complaints
- A national appellate mechanism will address serious cases, including:
- Medical negligence
- Ethical violations
This aims to ensure greater transparency and accountability.
Major Reform in Dental Education and Practice
The introduction of the National Dental Commission marks a significant step towards:
- Standardising dental education
- Enhancing affordability
- Improving regulatory efficiency
- Enabling ease of practice across India
