Dentists do not typically hold a medical degree (MD). Dentistry and medicine are distinct fields with different educational requirements and scopes of practice. Dentists complete a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, which typically requires four years of dental school after completing undergraduate studies. In contrast, medical doctors complete a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, which requires four years of medical school after completing undergraduate studies.
While dentists and medical doctors share some similarities in their work, such as diagnosing and treating patients, their areas of expertise differ significantly. Dentists specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral health conditions, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. Medical doctors, on the other hand, focus on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of general health conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
