You have probably seen the Dental degrees “DMD” and “DDS” before. Dr. Eric Jacobs, for example, has a DMD. But what do these degrees mean? What, if any, are the differences between them? We welcome you to look through our DMD vs DDS facts below to learn more.

DMD vs DDS Facts:

• DMD and DDS are two different names for the same degree in dentistry. The two degrees involve the same level of education and training.
• Dental professionals with either a DMD or a DDS receive a four-year undergraduate degree and then attend dental school where they undergo training in biomedical sciences and dental practices.
• Both types of dentists must pass two exams: the National Board Dental Examination and a regional clinical exam. After these exams, they must also pass a state jurisprudence examination to obtain a state license.
• The reason for the two different degree names lies in their translation from Latin. When Harvard began awarding dental degrees, they chose to use Dentariae Medicinae Doctoris (DMD) instead of the typical Doctor of Dental Surgery (Chirurgae Dentium Doctoris or CCD).
• Ultimately, whether a dentist is awarded a DMD or a DDS depends on the naming convention of the university they attended. Regardless of the degree title, both DMD and DDS holders are highly qualified dental professionals who have undergone rigorous training and examination to provide exceptional dental care.