You might be looking for the letters DMD, DMD, or DDS. You might be referred to a specialist by your dentist. How can you decide which dentist to visit for your specific needs?
DDS vs. DMD
The most common type you’ll see at the dentist is a general dentist. DMD dentists can either be a DMD, or a DDS. DDS dentists have completed their Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. DMD dentists have received their Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Dental Medicine degrees.
Doctors can obtain DDS/DMD credentials if they have completed at least three years of undergraduate studies followed by four years of dental school.
What’s the difference between DMD or DDS? Both are the same. They are different because of the universities they went to and the way that university recognizes their profession. Both must take the same classes and pass a written exam to be able to practice dentistry.
General dentists are DDS and DMD dentists. They provide primary care and treat all aspects dental care. This includes diagnosing and treating oral health issues such as decay, gum disease, root canals, crowns, and toothache, as well preventative and curative care.
Dental Specialists
Sometimes your dental needs may require your general dentist to refer you to a dental specialist. Dental specialists require additional training in dentistry.
You will be provided with specialized training and expertise to help you attain optimal dental health. These are the most popular types of dental specialists.
Pedodontist Dentists who work only with children.
Orthodontist A general dentist will refer an adult or child to an orthodontist when he/she observes misalignment of the teeth or jaws. If there are missing or additional teeth, an orthodontist may be able to help. Children can be referred to an orthodontist early.
Oral Surgeon A specialist in the treatment of diseases, injuries, cosmetic, or functional areas within your mouth, an oral surgeon.
They can also remove wisdom teeth and perform dental implants. Oral surgeons can also receive anesthesia training to help provide comfort during surgery.
Endodontist is a specialist who has been trained to treat pain and preserve natural teeth. Root canal treatment treats the infected tissues within a tooth. Endodontic comes from the Greek word “endo”, which means “inside” or “odont”, which is a tooth.
Periodontist A periodontist, a specialist in dentistry, looks after your teeth, support tissues, and structure.
Patients with advanced gum disease will often need to be referred to a periodontist. They can also place dental implants.
This specialist in dental care helps patients replace or restore missing or damaged teeth. To ensure a healthy, functional smile, they examine every aspect of the patient’s smile. They are able to perform procedures such as dentures, bridges, and dental implants.
Your general dentist is your first contact for all dental concerns.