DDS vs DMD: What’s the Difference Between Dental Degrees in 2025?

If you’re on the pre-dental track, you’ve probably come across two different designations for dentists: DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry) and DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery). At first glance, it may seem like one is superior or more prestigious than the other—but is that really the case?

This guide breaks down what DDS and DMD degrees mean, why both exist, and whether one should factor into your decision when choosing a dental school.

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What Are DDS and DMD Degrees?

Dental students in the U.S. graduate with either:

• DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery)
• DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine)

The catch? They’re the exact same degree. Both prepare students for the full scope of general dentistry, and graduates of either program can practice, specialize, and pursue residencies. The distinction lies only in the terminology schools choose to use.

Why Two Different Titles?

The split dates back to Harvard University, which established its dental program in 1867. Following its tradition of Latin degree names, Harvard chose DMD (Dentariae Medicinae Doctoris) instead of DDS.

Other schools later followed Harvard’s naming style, and today, some award DDS and others award DMD. Importantly, the curriculum, accreditation, and licensing requirements remain identical.

Training and Accreditation

No matter the title, dental programs must meet rigorous standards set by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Both DDS and DMD students:

• Complete four years of dental school after their undergraduate prerequisites.
• Spend the first two years in core science courses (anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology).
• Spend the last two years in clinical training with direct patient care.
• Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and clinical licensing exams to practice.

Whether your diploma says DDS or DMD, your training is equally valid.

DDS vs DMD: Key Similarities

• Same scope of practice: Both can diagnose, treat, and manage oral health.
• Same accreditation: Programs are CODA-approved.
• Same licensing process: State boards make no distinction between DDS and DMD.
• Same salary potential: Earnings depend on location, specialty, and practice—not the degree name

Choosing Between a DDS and DMD Program

Since the degree title makes no difference, focus on factors that actually impact your education and career:

I. Location: 

Will you be comfortable studying and living there for four years?

II. Tuition and aid: 

Cost varies significantly between public and private schools.

III. Specialty strengths: 

Some schools excel in areas like pediatrics, research, or prosthodontics. 

IV. Clinical experience: 

Look for programs that emphasize patient care early on.

V. Admissions competitiveness: 

Acceptance rates and GPA/ DAT averages differ.

In short, your dental school decision should be guided by fit, not the DDS vs. DMD distinction.

Examples of DDS Programs

1. New York University
2. Columbia University
3. Ohio State University
4. UCLA
5. University of Washington
   
   

Examples of DMD Programs

1. Harvard University
2. Boston University
3. University of Pennsylvania
4. Oregon Health & Science University
5. University of Connecticut

FAQs: DDS vs. DMD

#1. Is a DMD harder to get than a DDS?

No. The competitiveness depends on the school itself, not the letters on the diploma.

#2. Do patients care whether a dentist has a DMD or DDS?

Not at all. Most patients don’t even know there’s a difference.

#3. Which degree is more prestigious?

Prestige comes from the school’s reputation (e.g., Harvard, Columbia, Penn), not the degree title.

#4. Do DMD vs. DDS graduates earn different salaries?

No. The national average dentist salary—around $225,000—applies equally. Specialization, geography, and practice type matter much more.

#5. Why does the U.S. have two degree names when other countries don’t?

It’s largely historical. Outside the U.S., most programs simply use “Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)” or “Doctor of Dental Medicine.”

Final Thoughts

If you’re comparing dental schools, the DDS vs. DMD distinction should be the last thing on your mind. Both degrees qualify you to practice dentistry at the same level, pursue specialties, and enjoy the same career opportunities.

Instead, focus on what truly matters: the curriculum, cost, location, and support system of each program. Once you graduate and start treating patients, those three little letters won’t define your skill or success.

At Go Elective, we help pre-dental students strengthen their applications through global health internships in Kenya and Tanzania. These experiences give you hands-on exposure, cultural awareness, and the confidence to stand out in your dental school journey. Regardless of whether your future degree says DDS or DMD.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives, Dental Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 19, 2025