DDS vs. DMD: What’s the Difference?

Understanding Dental Degrees and What They Mean for Your Oral Health

When choosing a dentist, you may notice that some have the title DDS after their name, while others have DMD. This can raise questions: Are these different degrees? Does one signify more expertise than the other? Let’s clear up the confusion.

What Does DDS and DMD Stand For?

  • DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery.
  • DMD stands for Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine.

Both degrees are awarded to dentists who have completed dental school. Despite the different titles, they hold the same value in the field of dentistry.

Why Are There Two Different Titles?

The distinction between DDS and DMD is historical. The first dental school in the U.S., the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, established in 1840, began awarding the DDS degree. Later, when Harvard University opened its dental school in 1867, it decided to award the DMD degree, as they wanted the degree to reflect the school’s emphasis on medical science (hence the use of “Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry”).

Is There a Difference in Education?

No, there is no difference in the education or training between a DDS and a DMD. Both types of dentists complete the same curriculum, which includes four years of dental school after earning a bachelor’s degree. During dental school, students study anatomy, biology, oral health, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as hands-on clinical practice.

What Does This Mean for You as a Patient?

When choosing a dentist, you don’t need to worry about whether they hold a DDS or DMD degree. Both are fully qualified to perform general dentistry procedures such as:

Conclusion

Whether your dentist is a DDS or a DMD, you can trust that they have received the same level of education and training. The difference in the title is simply a matter of tradition. What’s more important is finding a dentist who makes you feel comfortable and meets your oral health needs.

By Peter Kim

Dr. Peter J. Kim, DDS, is a highly skilled dentist in McKinney, TX. He earned his dental degree from the prestigious University of Michigan School of Dentistry and completed his residency in New York City. Dr. Kim is passionate about providing exceptional dental care and stays at the forefront of the field through advanced techniques and continuous education. Dedicated to serving the McKinney community, Dr. Kim offers a wide range of services, ensuring personalized care for every patient.