Can A Dentist Become A Medical Doctor in Nigeria

If you are a dentist in Nigeria, you might be wondering if it’s possible to become a medical doctor. After all, the two professions are related, and it might seem like a natural progression. In this article, we will explore the question of whether a dentist can become a medical doctor in Nigeria. We will examine the differences between the two professions, the education and training required, and the steps you can take if you want to make the transition.

What is the Difference Between a Dentist and a Medical Doctor?

Before we can answer the question of whether a dentist can become a medical doctor, we need to understand the differences between the two professions. Dentists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases and conditions. They focus on the teeth, gums, and mouth, and their work includes cleaning, filling, extracting, and repairing teeth. Medical doctors, on the other hand, are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat diseases and conditions of the entire body. They focus on internal medicine, surgery, and other areas, and their work includes prescribing medications, performing surgeries, and managing chronic conditions.

What Education and Training is Required to Become a Dentist or Medical Doctor in Nigeria?

In Nigeria, dentists and medical doctors have different educational requirements. To become a dentist, you need to have a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from a recognized university. This degree takes five years to complete and includes both theoretical and practical coursework. After completing the degree, you need to do a one-year internship and register with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) before you can practice as a dentist.

To become a medical doctor, you need to have a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from a recognized university. This degree takes six years to complete and includes both theoretical and practical coursework. After completing the degree, you need to do a one-year internship and register with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) before you can practice as a medical doctor.

Can a Dentist Become a Medical Doctor in Nigeria?

While dentists and medical doctors have different educational requirements, it is possible for a dentist to become a medical doctor in Nigeria. However, the process is not straightforward, and it requires additional education and training.

If you are a dentist who wants to become a medical doctor, you will need to go back to school and complete a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. This degree takes six years to complete and includes both theoretical and practical coursework. After completing the degree, you will need to do a one-year internship and register with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) before you can practice as a medical doctor.

Steps to Take if You Want to Become a Medical Doctor as a Dentist

If you are a dentist who wants to become a medical doctor, here are the steps you can take:

1. Research universities in Nigeria that offer a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree.
2. Apply to the universities of your choice and meet their admission requirements.
3. Complete the MBBS degree, which takes six years to complete.
4. Do a one-year internship and register with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) before you can practice as a medical doctor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is possible for a dentist to become a medical doctor in Nigeria, but it requires additional education and training. If you are a dentist who wants to make the transition, you will need to go back to school and complete a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. This degree takes six years to complete and includes both