DDS vs. MDS: Understanding Dental Degrees and Specializations

DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery)

- General Dentist

- Primary care provider for oral health

- Diagnose and treat a wide range of dental issues including:

- Cavities

- Gum disease

- Root canals

- Crowns and bridges

- Dentures

- Extractions

- Can also perform cosmetic dentistry procedures such as:

- Teeth whitening

- Veneers

- Bonding

MDS (Master of Dental Science)

- Specialist dentist

- Requires additional training beyond DDS

- Focuses on a specific area of dentistry such as:

- Endodontics (root canals)

- Periodontics (gum disease)

- Prosthodontics (crowns, bridges, dentures)

- Oral surgery

- Pediatric dentistry

- Orthodontics (braces)

- Oral and maxillofacial surgery (facial reconstruction)

- May also conduct research and teach in a dental school