NLS, There is no difference between a DDS or a DMD. Both degrees offer the exact same training. I could explain more if you want to know more. As for practicing in a hospital, any dentist or dental specialist can practice in a hospital as long as they have a dental clinic. For example, I know a hospital that has 3 general dentist and 2 oral surgeons on staff and a couple of other specialist come in on a part time basis. Usually bigger hospitals have dental clinics but most dentist have private practices However if you are a dentist and you need to place a patient under general then you can work in the OR or where ever as long as the hospital approves it. Most dentist that work in hospital are Oral Surgeons, Pediatric dentists, or other specialists. Now this is very expensive to the patient because of the hospital costs. Also, you have to know what you are doing therefore, you need to have had previous training in a GPR or a specialty. As for obtaining a PhD, Almost all dental schools have PhD programs. You can earn it simultaneously with your DDS/DMD or you can obtain it afterwards. The length of the programs vary but expect at least 7-8 years to get both degrees. Also, most people who do get a PhD on top of a DDS also specialize at the same time and this can add on more time. Contact a dental school to find out more info or look on the net. Let me know if I could help you in any other way. Tell me what you are interested in doing?
