What are the two degrees that dentists are awarded after graduating from dental school?

Dentists are awarded either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) upon graduating from dental school. Both degrees signify that the individual has completed the necessary educational requirements and training to practice dentistry, but they may emphasize different aspects of dental education.

The DDS degree focuses more on surgical techniques and procedures related to dentistry, while the DMD degree may put a greater emphasis on the overall medical approach to dental care. However, both degrees allow graduates to perform the same types of procedures and possess equal licensing rights to practice dentistry.

This dual-degree recognition is an important aspect of the dental profession, as it assures patients that their dentist has a sound educational foundation in both the science and practice of dental care, regardless of the specific degree title.