"MS" After a Dentist's Name: Master of Science in Dental Specialties

MS = Master of Science – an advanced academic degree (1–3 years post-DDS/DMD) in a dental specialty or research area.

Common MS Specialty Tracks

Specialty	Focus	Typical MS Program
Endodontics	Root canal therapy, microsurgery, trauma	2–3 years; often combined with certificate
Orthodontics	Dentofacial orthopedics, alignment, growth	2–3 years; highly competitive
Periodontics	Gum disease, implants, plastic surgery	3 years
Prosthodontics	Complex reconstruction, implants, maxillofacial	3 years
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery	Extractions, trauma, pathology, reconstruction	4–6 years (often MD + MS/OMFS certificate)
Pediatric Dentistry	Child development, sedation, special needs	2–3 years
Dental Public Health	Epidemiology, policy, community programs	1–2 years (often MPH/MS dual)
Orofacial Pain / Oral Medicine	TMD, neuropathic pain, mucosal disease	2–3 years
Dental Materials / Biomaterials	Research-focused; industry/academia	1–2 years

MS vs. Specialty Certificate

• Many programs award both: Certificate (clinical competency) + MS (research thesis).
• Some offer MS only (non-clinical research track).
• Board eligibility requires the certificate from CODA-accredited program.

Other Advanced Degrees

• PhD: Research doctorate (4–6 yrs); academic/research careers.
• MBA / MPH / MHA: Leadership, policy, administration.
• Fellowships: Post-residency sub-specialization (e.g., aesthetic, implant, sleep).

An MS indicates advanced scholarly + clinical training beyond the dental degree. Verify board certification for clinical specialty practice.