What it is
The Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) are the same degree with different names — the professional degree to become a licensed dentist. The education and licensure are identical; schools simply award one or the other.
The degrees & designations
How long it takes
Four years of dental school; specialties (orthodontics, oral surgery, etc.) add a residency.
What you study
Dental science and supervised clinical practice, with national/regional board exams for licensure.
Getting in
Requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisites, plus the field's admission test; admission is typically very competitive.
Cost & funding
Professional degrees are among the most expensive, and debt can be significant; loans, scholarships, and service-based repayment are common.
Where it leads
Leads to licensed dental practice; specialization requires a residency afterward.
How it compares
DDS and DMD are equivalent — the letters are the school's tradition, not a difference in training.
Is it right for you?
Fits those pursuing dentistry.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring:
Key facts
- WhatThe dentist degree (DDS = DMD)
- Length4 yrs; + residency to specialize
- EntryBachelor's + DAT
- Leads toLicensed dental practice
- SpecialtiesOrtho, oral surgery, endo, perio
Where to learn more
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