Candidates should have an adequate number of natural and healthy teeth. A minimum of 14 dental points is required, with a maximum of 22 points if all 32 teeth are present. Candidates should not be suffering from severe pyorrhea.
The medical test, including the assessment of dental points, is conducted by the SSB medical board for recommended candidates after SSB interviews. It is a crucial part of the selection procedure, and typically, the medically unfit rate ranges from 45% to 55% in each batch. Candidates may be declared medically unfit for various health issues. Aspirants should undergo thorough body check-ups before attending interviews, and regular monthly check-ups are mandatory. Having a minimum of 14 dental points is essential during these medical examinations. Let’s delve deeper into this requirement.
What are 14 Dental Points?
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Points given on Teeth in Dental Test
Teeth that are not deemed necessary for efficient function are assigned 1 point each. Teeth considered essential are allocated 2 points each. Each incisor, canine, 1st and 2nd premolars receive 1 point if their corresponding lower teeth are present. Each 1st and 2nd molar and well-developed 3rd molar are awarded 2 points if they are in good opposition to corresponding teeth in the lower jaw. If the 3rd molar is not well developed, it is given only 1 point.
When all 16 teeth are intact in the upper jaw and have good functional opposition to corresponding teeth in the lower jaw, the total points can range from 20 to 22, depending on whether the 3rd molars are well developed or not.
Conditions for 14 Dental Points:-
When all 16 teeth are intact in the upper jaw and have good functional opposition to corresponding teeth in the lower jaw, the total points can range from 20 to 22, depending on whether the 3rd molars are well developed or not. Additionally, any 4 of the 6 anterior teeth and any 6 of the 10 posterior teeth must be present in the upper jaw and in good functional opposition to corresponding teeth in the lower jaw.
Furthermore, provided there are at least 14 dental points in the mouth, all these teeth must be sound and repairable. The minimum number of points required to be medically fit is 14 points.
Conclusion
In very rare cases, aspirants may have fewer than 14 dental points, possibly due to damaged teeth resulting from accidents or other health issues. While being declared unfit due to insufficient dental points is uncommon, it’s wise to take precautions. It’s advisable to undergo proper oral cleanup before medical examinations to ensure optimal dental health.
