A Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) is a dental degree that qualifies a graduate to practice general dentistry. It is academically equivalent to a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Graduates with this qualification are trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat diseases of the teeth and gums.
The attainment of this professional doctorate signifies comprehensive education in oral healthcare. It allows practitioners to provide essential services such as fillings, root canals, extractions, and preventative care. The curriculum includes rigorous scientific training, coupled with extensive clinical experience, ensuring competence in a wide range of dental procedures. Historically, the choice between awarding a DMD or DDS degree often reflects the individual institution’s preference rather than a significant difference in curriculum or scope of practice.