DMD vs. DDS: What’s the Difference and Which Dental Degree Is Right for You?

Dentistry involves the prevention, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of diseases, conditions, and disorders affecting the oral cavity, maxillofacial area, and adjacent structures. Dentists provide care within the limits of their education, training, professional standards, and applicable laws.

When pursuing a career in dentistry, students typically earn one of two degrees:

• Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS
• Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)

Both degrees are awarded by accredited dental schools and qualify graduates to practice as general dentists. But what distinguishes DMD from DDS, and is one better than the other?

Is There a Real Difference Between DMD and DDS?

When visiting a dentist, you may notice either DMD or DDS listed after their name. It is natural to wonder whether these degrees differ in quality or prestige.

The American Dental Association (ADA) clearly states that there is no distinction between a DMD and a DDS. Dentists holding either degree have completed the same rigorous education and training, allowing them to practice in any general dentistry specialty.

The dental curriculum is standardized across accredited programs. Whether a school awards a DMD or DDS is purely a matter of institutional tradition, not educational content or professional qualification.

Historical Background of the DMD and DDS Degrees

The variation between DMD and DDS titles dates back to the mid-19th century. The Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, founded in 1840, was the first dental college and awarded the DDS degree.

In 1867, Harvard University established its dental school. Adhering to its tradition of Latin degree names, Harvard preferred not to use "Doctor of Dental Surgery" because its Latin translation, Chirurgae Dentium Doctoris (CDD), was considered linguistically awkward. Instead, Harvard coined Dentariae Medicinae Doctoris (DMD), translating to Doctor of Dental Medicine.

Today, approximately one-third of dental schools in the United States confer DMD degrees, while the remainder award DDS degrees.

DMD vs. DDS: Educational Pathway

Regardless of whether a dental school awards a DMD or DDS, the educational pathway remains the same. Students must:

• Complete a four-year undergraduate degree, often focused on sciences such as biology and chemistry
• Successfully pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT)
• Enroll in a four-year dental school program, covering basic sciences, clinical skills, and patient care
• Complete rigorous laboratory and clinical training

In dental school, the first two years typically focus on foundational sciences including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology. The final two years emphasize clinical experience through direct patient care under supervision.

Upon graduation, candidates must pass the National Board Dental Examinations (Parts I and II) and meet state-specific licensing requirements to practice dentistry.

Additional Training After DMD or DDS

While general dentists are fully qualified upon graduation, many choose to pursue post-graduate specialization. Specialized training allows dentists to focus on particular fields of dentistry. Common specialties and training durations include:

1. Pediatric Dentistry: 

Approximately 25 months of additional training, focusing on oral health for children from infancy through adolescence.

2. Endodontics: 

About 26 months of advanced training, specializing in treating the dental pulp and root canal procedures.

3. Periodontics: 

Roughly 35 months dedicated to diagnosing and treating gum diseases.

4. Orthodontics: 

Typically a one-year residency plus training in correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.

5. Prosthodontics: 

Approximately 32 months of training in restoring and replacing teeth with prostheses.

6. Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Radiology, and Surgery: 

Additional specialized training that can extend up to six years, depending on the area.

Specialists often carry titles that reflect their additional training, although specialty certifications do not always change the DDS or DMD designation.

Advancements and Interest Areas in General Dentistry

General dentistry continues to evolve rapidly through new technologies, scientific discoveries, and refined clinical techniques. The American Dental Association recognizes the importance of research, innovation, and specialization even within general practice.

Interest areas in general dentistry must meet specific ADA criteria for official recognition, ensuring they contribute to advancing the profession through evidence-based practice and continuing education.

These advancements not only improve patient care but also offer dentists ongoing opportunities to specialize further or develop advanced clinical skills in areas such as:

• Cosmetic dentistry
• Implantology
• Geriatric dentistry
• Special needs dentistry
  
  

Internship Opportunities in Dental Practice

Pre-dental internships and dental electives abroad offer valuable real-world exposure to the field of dentistry. Also referred to as dental shadowing programs, these internships allow aspiring dental students to immerse themselves in various aspects of dental practice, including:

• General and cosmetic dentistry
• Dental office administration and management
• Patient communication and psychological care
• Use of dental practice software and technologies

By participating in a dental internship, students can make informed career decisions while strengthening their dental school applications.

At Go Elective, our pre-dental internships abroad provide hands-on clinical experience in dynamic, real-world settings. Interns work alongside experienced dentists and gain insight into the daily realities of dental practice while contributing meaningfully to patient care.

> Learn More About our Healthcare Internships Abroad

Final Thoughts

There is no substantive difference between a DMD and a DDS degree. Both represent equally rigorous education and preparation, and both allow graduates to practice the full range of general dentistry.

When choosing a dentist—or deciding on your own career path—the focus should not be on whether the practitioner holds a DMD or DDS, but rather on their skills, experience, and commitment to patient care.

If you are considering a future in dentistry, participating in a structured pre-dental internship is an excellent way to build experience, confirm your passion for the profession, and prepare for the next step in your educational journey. Programs like those offered by Go Elective can provide the global perspective and practical foundation that set future dental professionals apart.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Dental Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: May 16, 2025