What Do the Initials After Dentists Names Mean?
Dentistry.com lists the abbreviations D.D.S. and D.M.D. as those most commonly seen following a dentist’s name. “D.D.S.” stands for “Doctor of Dental Surgery,” while “D.M.D.” indicates that the dentist is accredited as a “Doctor of Medical Dentistry.”
According to the American Dental Association, there is no significant difference between a D.D.S. and D.M.D. accreditation. Dentists with either accreditation complete the same level of education, typically four years of specialized schooling, as well as pass similar written and clinical examinations. Other possible dentist credentials are Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, F.A.G.D., and Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, M.A.G.D. Dentists with these titles are recognized as leaders in their field who have completed rigorous continued education and examinations.
