DDS

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

The Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) is a professional degree awarded to dentists upon completion of their education and training. This degree is one of the two primary degrees in dentistry, the other being the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). Both degrees are equivalent and qualify the holder to practice dentistry.

History

The DDS degree was first introduced by the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery in 1840, which was the first dental college in the world. The establishment of this degree marked the beginning of formal dental education in the United States.

Education and Training

To earn a DDS degree, students must complete a rigorous program that typically lasts four years. The curriculum includes both didactic and clinical components, covering a wide range of topics essential for dental practice.

Preclinical Education

In the first two years, students focus on foundational sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology. Courses in dental anatomy, dental materials, and preclinical techniques are also included to prepare students for clinical practice.

Clinical Education

The final two years emphasize clinical experience, where students treat patients under the supervision of licensed dentists. This hands-on training is crucial for developing the skills necessary for diagnosing and treating dental conditions.

Licensure

After obtaining a DDS degree, graduates must pass a series of examinations to become licensed to practice dentistry. In the United States, this typically involves passing the National Board Dental Examination and a regional clinical examination.

Specializations

DDS graduates may choose to pursue further training in one of the nine recognized dental specialties, such as orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, or endodontics. This additional training can take two to six years, depending on the specialty.

DDS vs. DMD

There is no significant difference between the DDS and DMD degrees. The distinction is primarily historical and based on the preference of the awarding institution. Both degrees require the same level of education and training, and both qualify the holder to practice dentistry.

See Also

• Dental education throughout the world
• Dental degree
• Dentistry

References

• American Dental Association. "Dental Education." Retrieved from [1]
• "History of Dentistry." Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. Retrieved from [2]