What is a DMD, FAGD?

When choosing a dentist, you may notice several letters following their name. At West Monroe Dental, Dr. Mikkili is a DMD, FAGD. These titles represent a rigorous commitment to clinical excellence and lifelong learning in the field of dentistry.

What does DMD mean?

DMD stands for Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (or Doctor of Dental Medicine). This is a doctoral-level degree and is the terminal degree for dental practitioners in the United States.

To earn a DMD, a dentist must complete:

  • A four-year undergraduate degree.
  • Four years of intensive doctoral studies at an accredited dental school.
  • Comprehensive clinical training and residency.
  • Rigorous national written and regional clinical board examinations.

A DMD is trained not just in tooth repair, but in the complete interworking of oral and facial structures, systemic health, and advanced medical diagnostics.

What does FAGD mean?

While a DMD represents the completion of dental school, FAGD (Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry) represents a commitment that goes far beyond the basics.

An FAGD dentist is part of an elite group—only about 6% of general dentists in the U.S. and Canada have achieved this honor. To become a Fellow, a dentist must:

  • Complete over 500 hours of specialized continuing education.
  • Pass a comprehensive, day-long examination covering all aspects of dental care.
  • Maintain a current license and membership in the Academy of General Dentistry.

When you see “FAGD,” it means your dentist is a lifelong student who stays at the forefront of dental technology and techniques to provide the highest quality of patient care.

DMD vs. DDS: What is the difference?

The primary difference between a DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry) and a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) is simply the name.

  • Same Education: Both degrees require the exact same curriculum and clinical standards set by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
  • University Choice: The degree title is determined by the university. For example, Harvard University originally created the “DMD” title because they award degrees in Latin (Dentariae Medicinae Doctoris), while other schools use “DDS.”
  • The Bottom Line: Whether your doctor is a DMD or a DDS, they have graduated from an accredited dental school and are fully qualified to practice general dentistry.

Why it Matters for Your Care

By choosing a DMD, FAGD, you are choosing a provider who has met the highest standards of the profession and continues to seek out the latest advancements in the field.

Ready to experience expert care?

We invite you to contact West Monroe Dental at (314) 821-1496 to learn more about Dr. Mikkili’s advanced training or to schedule your appointment at our friendly Kirkwood, MO office.