NDC Clarifies Dentist Scope of Practice

The National Dental Commission (NDC) has issued a clarification regarding the permissible scope of practice for dentists in India. This advisory emphasizes that dental practitioners must restrict their clinical work to procedures covered by their existing qualifications and specialized training. The commission noted that it had received numerous queries from registered dentists seeking clarity on this matter.

The BDS curriculum provides training for routine dental procedures, including fillings, simple root canals, uncomplicated extractions, and basic orthodontic treatments. BDS graduates are expected to identify complex cases and refer them to specialists. In contrast, MDS programs offer advanced training in specialized fields such as oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontology, prosthodontics, and endodontics.

Experts, including former Dental Council of India president Brig Anil Kohli, welcomed the clarification. Kohli suggested that the NDC should create a procedure-wise list to further define the scope for both general and specialist dentists. He stressed that clinical competence, not just the degree, should determine practice limits, with patient safety being the top priority.

Kohli also advocated for mandatory continuing dental education for license renewal, alongside clinical audits and enforcement against violations. He proposed that general dentists with recognized additional training should be permitted to expand their scope of practice. The NDC has requested state dental councils to issue advisories to prevent violations and ensure dentists are transparent about their qualifications and limitations, always prioritizing patient interests.