DDS can stand for several things, depending on the context. The most common meanings are:
DDS as a Dental Degree
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Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS): This is a professional degree awarded to dentists after completing dental school. It's essentially equivalent to a DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry), with the difference being primarily a matter of the university granting the degree. Both degrees follow the same curriculum and confer the same qualifications. [Source: MouthHealthy.org, Colgate.com, ShemmassianConsulting.com]
Examples: A dentist's business card might list their credentials as "Dr. Jane Doe, DDS." A dental clinic's website could advertise the services of "DDS professionals."
DDS as a Government Agency
In various states, DDS can refer to a government agency responsible for specific services:
- Disability Determination Services: This is a state agency tasked with evaluating medical information to determine eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. [Source: SOARWorks.samhsa.gov]
- Department of Developmental Services: This type of agency, like the California Department of Developmental Services or Connecticut's Department of Developmental Services, provides support and services to individuals with developmental disabilities. [Source: dds.ca.gov, portal.ct.gov]
- Department of Driver Services: Several states use DDS to denote their agency responsible for issuing driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and related services. For instance, the Georgia Department of Driver Services uses this abbreviation. [Source: dds.georgia.gov]
DDS in Other Contexts
There are also less common uses of the abbreviation DDS, such as "dd's DISCOUNTS," a retailer. However, the dental and government agency meanings are the most prevalent.
