How to Be Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 2, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) is a professional degree that provides the knowledge and skills necessary to practice dentistry. By completing a DDS program, individuals are able to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral diseases, as well as create treatment plans for their patients. Furthermore, DDS graduates have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral pathology, and periodontics.

As a result of the comprehensive training received during the DDS program, dentists are able to effectively treat their patients, improving their oral health and overall well-being. Furthermore, advancements in technology have improved the effectiveness of dental treatments and the quality of care that dentists are able to provide. the Doctor of Dental Surgery is an invaluable degree that enables practitioners to provide quality dental care to their patients.

Steps How to Become

Complete an Undergraduate Degree. Most programs in dental school require applicants to have a bachelor's degree before they can apply. This can be in any field, so students can choose any major they are interested in.
Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT). The DAT is a standardized test designed to assess knowledge of the natural sciences and other academic topics. Many dental schools require applicants to take the DAT and submit their scores as part of their application.
Apply to Dental School. Once a student has taken the DAT, they can apply to dental school. Each school will have its own application process and requirements, so it is important to research each school carefully.
Complete Dental School. Most dental school programs take four years to complete and involve both classroom instruction and clinical experience. At the end of the program, students will receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.
Pass a State Exam. After graduating from dental school, students will need to pass a state licensing exam before they can begin practicing. This exam may vary from state to state, but typically includes both a written and practical component.
Consider Specializing. Some dentists choose to specialize in a particular area of dentistry after graduating from dental school. This involves completing additional education and training, as well as passing additional exams.

Staying ahead and efficient requires a combination of dedication and hard work. By creating a plan with clear goals and objectives, it is easier to stay organized and focused on the task. Working smarter, not harder, is also key to success.

Utilizing technology, such as electronic records and scheduling systems, can help streamline processes and maximize efficiency. staying up-to-date on the latest trends in the dental field is essential for staying ahead of the competition. Finally, building strong relationships and communication with patients, colleagues, and other professionals can help to foster trust and build a strong referral network.

With these strategies in place, dental professionals can remain ahead and efficient in their Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) practice.

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Job Description

Diagnose and treat oral diseases and disorders
Examine patients teeth and gums
Perform cosmetic and restorative dental treatments
Take and interpret x-rays
Remove plaque, calculus and other deposits from teeth
Place sealants, fillings and crowns
Perform root canals
Make dentures, bridges and other prosthetic devices
Educate patients on maintaining oral health
Keep accurate records of patients oral health status

Skills and Competencies to Have

Communication and Interpersonal Skills: The ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Knowledge and Expertise: Knowledge of the fundamentals of dentistry, including oral anatomy, oral physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and radiography.
Diagnostic and Treatment Planning: Ability to recognize and diagnose dental problems, evaluate treatment options, and develop treatment plans.
Surgical Skills: Skill in performing restorative, prosthetic, and periodontal procedures, as well as extractions.
Anesthesia Administration: Ability to administer local, intravenous, and/or conscious sedation anesthesia safely and effectively.
Patient Management: Ability to assess patient needs and provide appropriate care, including patient education, behavior management, and emergency management.
Professional Ethics: Understanding of ethical and legal considerations involved in the practice of dentistry.
Technology: Ability to use technology (such as digital radiography) to provide patient care.

The ability to effectively communicate with patients is one of the most important skills a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) can have. This involves the ability to listen and understand patient concerns, provide clear information, and create a safe and comfortable environment for them. Communication is key in understanding the patient's needs and expectations, and in developing a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.

good communication skills allow the DDS to nurture a trusting relationship with their patients, which is a vital part of providing successful dental care. Poor communication can lead to misdiagnosis, misunderstanding of treatment, and mistrust between the patient and doctor. Thus, having strong communication skills is essential for a DDS to ensure the best possible outcome for their patients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in dentistry?
What areas of dentistry are you most passionate about?
How would you handle a difficult patient situation?
What experience do you have in dental diagnosis and treatment planning?
Describe your experience with digital radiography and other imaging technology.
How do you ensure that your patients receive quality care?
Describe your approach to educating patients on their oral health and treatment options.
What strategies do you use to stay informed of the latest advancements in dentistry?
What challenges have you faced in your dental practice, and how did you overcome them?
How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time efficiently in a busy dental practice?

Common Tools in Industry

Oral Microscope. An optical device used to magnify small objects, like teeth and gums. (eg: To examine a patient's mouth for any signs of decay or disease)
Dental X-Ray System. An imaging system used to take pictures of the teeth and supporting structures. (eg: To diagnose problems such as cavities, abscesses, and impacted teeth)
Ultrasonic Scaler. A device used to remove plaque and calculus from teeth. (eg: To clean and disinfect teeth before filling cavities)
Prophy Jet. A device used to deliver a stream of warm, pressurized air and water to the surface of the teeth. (eg: To remove surface stains and tartar buildup)
Intraoral Camera. A camera used to capture images inside the mouth. (eg: To diagnose oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Dental Association (ADA)
Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
American College of Prosthodontists (ACP)
American Student Dental Association (ASDA)
International College of Dentists (ICD)
International Association for Dental Research (IADR)
American Association of Endodontists (AAE)

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Common Important Terms

Crown (dentistry) - A dental restoration that covers or encircles a tooth to restore its structure and function.
Dental Prosthetic - A device used to replace missing teeth and adjacent structures, including crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, and partials.
Abutment - A dental device used to attach a bridge or implant to a natural tooth or to the underlying bone.
Oral Pathology - The branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the oral cavity.
Periodontics - The specialty of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
Endodontics - The branch of dentistry concerned with diseases of the dental pulp and their treatment.
Orthodontics - The branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of misalignment of teeth and jaws.
Oral Maxillofacial Surgery - The branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the hard and soft tissues of the head, neck, face, and jaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)?

A Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) is a professional degree in dentistry, awarded by a university or college after a student has completed four years of study and clinical training in the field.

What qualifications are required to become a DDS?

To become a DDS, an individual must have a bachelor's degree, complete a four-year dental school program, and pass both a written and clinical exam. They must also be licensed to practice dentistry in the state in which they will be providing services.

How long does it take to become a DDS?

Becoming a DDS typically takes around seven years of study and training, including four years of dental school, one year of residency, and two years of practice experience.

What type of treatments can a DDS provide?

A DDS can provide a variety of treatments, including preventive care such as cleanings and checkups, restorative treatments such as fillings and bridges, cosmetic treatments such as veneers, and surgical treatments such as root canals and extractions.

What is the difference between a DDS and a DMD?

The Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) is an equivalent professional degree to the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). Both degrees require the same amount of education, training, and licensure requirements. The only difference between the two degrees is the name.

Web Resources

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) - University of Michigan dent.umich.edu
DOCTOR OF DENTAL SURGERY (DDS) - Herman dentistry.usc.edu
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) | School of Dentistry - UT Health www.uthscsa.edu