Highlights:
- DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery.
- DMD stands for Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (or Dental Medicine).
- Both degrees are equal — the only difference is which school awarded it.
- All U.S. dentists must pass the same licensing exams regardless of degree.
Ever noticed the letters DDS or DMD after your dentist’s name and wondered what they mean?
You’re not alone.
Let’s break down what these degrees represent — and if one is better than the other.
What’s the Difference Between a DDS and a DMD?
Short answer: There’s no difference in training, skills, or qualifications between a DDS and a DMD.
Both degrees are awarded to dentists who graduate from accredited dental schools in the United States. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, while DMD stands for Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (or Dental Medicine — both are correct).
The curriculum, clinical training, and board exam requirements are exactly the same. Dentists in both programs study:
- anatomy
- physiology
- oral health
- patient care
- surgical techniques
They also complete hands-on clinical hours treating real patients under supervision.
So why the different titles?
It all depends on the university. Some dental schools — like Harvard — prefer to use Latin names for their degrees (hence, DMD). Others stick with the original DDS, which dates back to the 1800s.
No matter which title your dentist holds, the education and standards behind it are identical.
Why Does Harvard Award a DMD Instead of a DDS?
Harvard was one of the first institutions in the United States to establish a dental school. When it came time to name the degree, Harvard followed its tradition of using Latin for all academic titles.
Instead of adopting the commonly used Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), they created Dentariae Medicinae Doctor (DMD) — which translates to Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry.
This wasn’t about creating a new level of education or changing the scope of dental practice. It was simply a naming preference rooted in university tradition.
Since then, some other dental schools have also adopted the DMD title. Today, about one-third of U.S. dental schools grant a DMD, while the remaining two-thirds award a DDS.
Despite the different letters, both degrees represent the same level of education and clinical expertise.
Are DMD and DDS Dentists Equally Qualified?
Yes — 100%.
Whether your dentist holds a DMD or DDS, they’ve gone through the same rigorous education and training. The American Dental Association (ADA) officially recognizes both degrees as equivalent in every way.
No matter the title, every licensed dentist in the U.S. must:
- Graduate from an accredited dental school
- Pass the National Board Dental Examinations
- Meet state-specific licensing requirements
- Complete clinical training and patient care hours
There’s no extra training or “higher” degree involved — it’s simply a matter of which school awarded the diploma.
So when choosing a dentist, focus less on the letters after their name and more on their experience, approach to care, and how comfortable you feel in their chair.
What Do DMD and DDS Programs Teach?
The curriculum for DMD and DDS degrees is virtually identical — and equally comprehensive.
Both programs are designed to prepare dentists to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health issues with confidence and compassion.
Here’s what’s typically covered in both paths:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Oral pathology and disease prevention
- Clinical training in real-world settings
- Surgical techniques, including extractions and restorations
- Patient care and chairside skills
In addition to hands-on and academic training, both tracks emphasize:
- Ethical decision-making
- Effective communication with patients
- Practice management and professionalism
By the time a student earns either degree, they’re fully equipped to provide comprehensive dental care — whether they go into general practice or choose to specialize later on.
What’s the Highest Degree a Dentist Can Earn?
While DDS and DMD are the highest degrees required to practice dentistry, some dentists go on to pursue additional training — especially if they choose to specialize.
After dental school, a dentist may complete a residency program in areas like:
- Orthodontics
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery
- Endodontics
- Prosthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Periodontics
These specialties come with advanced certifications and, in some cases, master’s degrees in dental science or related fields.
Some dentists, particularly those in academic or research settings, may also earn a PhD — though it’s not required to treat patients or run a practice.
In short: DMD and DDS are more than enough to deliver expert care, but lifelong learners in the field often take it further.
Key Takeaways
- DDS and DMD are equivalent dental degrees — there’s no difference in training, qualifications, or scope of practice.
- The title depends on the dental school, not on the dentist’s skills or expertise.
- All licensed dentists in the U.S. must pass the same board exams and meet the same educational standards.
- Harvard awards a DMD because of its Latin degree naming tradition — not because it’s a different or superior program.
- Some dentists pursue specialty training or additional degrees, but a DMD or DDS is the standard for practicing general dentistry.
Stay proactive about your smile and follow @joycethedentist for more friendly tips on beauty, wellness, and oral health.
FAQs
What is the difference between DDS and DMD at Harvard?
There’s no difference in education or training. Harvard uses the title DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry) because it traditionally awards all degrees in Latin. It’s equivalent to a DDS.
What is the highest degree of dentistry?
The highest degree required to practice dentistry is a DMD or DDS. However, some dentists earn advanced degrees like a master’s or PhD, especially if they specialize or work in research or academia.
Is DMD a real doctor?
Yes. A DMD is a fully licensed dental doctor, just like a DDS. Both are recognized by the American Dental Association and meet the same educational and licensing standards.
What is the highest degree for an orthodontist?
An orthodontist first earns a DMD or DDS, then completes a 2–3 year residency in orthodontics. Some may also earn a master’s degree in orthodontics or a related field.
Is orthodontics a PhD?
No, orthodontics is a dental specialty, not a PhD. However, some orthodontists who are involved in research or teaching may choose to pursue a PhD in dental science or another related area.
