Can You Be a Dentist and Doctor at the Same Time?
The profession of dentistry often intersects with that of medicine, as both fields deal with the oral cavity and related structures. While it is possible to pursue both careers, the journey is not straightforward and requires a significant commitment of time and effort.
Understanding the Dual-Path Career
The question of whether you can be both a dentist and a physician is a valid one, especially given the overlap in their fields of expertise. The answer is a resounding yes, with the caveat that it necessitates completing both medical and dental schools and passing the respective licensing exams.
Integrating Dentistry and Medicine
Many dental and medical professionals have chosen to undertake the dual degree pathway. This involves completing an undergraduate program in dentistry, followed by a dental internship, and then an undergraduate program in medicine, with a medical internship. Here’s a more detailed overview of the path:
Dentistry: Undergraduate in dentistry (typically 5 years) with a dental internship (1 year). Medicine: Undergraduate in medicine (typically 5 or 6 years, depending on interruptions), followed by a medical internship (1 year). Maxillofacial Surgery and Otolaryngology: Postgraduate training in maxillofacial surgery (2 years) and specialization in otolaryngology (5 years).Unique Experiences and Challenges
My journey of participating in both dentistry and medicine began in 1973 with an undergraduate degree in dentistry. In 1979, I completed a dental internship and passed the state exam. Subsequently, from 1978 to 1984, I continued my education with an undergraduate degree in medicine, followed by a medical internship and passing the state exam the following year.
During my years as a dentist and doctor, I also completed a postgraduate program in maxillofacial surgery in 1980-1982, and a specialization in otolaryngology in 1986-1992, culminating in the South African fellowship in otolaryngology in 1993.
It’s important to note that for several years, I was involved in double and triple dental internships and medical undergraduate maxillofacial surgery fellowships. The reason for this dual pathway was the requirement by the University Clinic for Maxillofacial Surgery to have both degrees for maxillofacial surgery.
The Dual Degree Advantage
The dual degree pathway offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the oral cavity and related structures, which can lead to better patient care. Secondly, it opens up opportunities for specialized roles, such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, where an MD degree can be a significant advantage.
Rare but Routine: The Dentist-Doctor Combination
It is relatively common for dentists to become doctors, but the reverse is less common. Many oral and maxillofacial surgery residencies offer an MD degree upon completion, which means that an individual has completed 4 years of undergraduate education, 4 years of dental school, and 5 years of oral surgery residency. This makes them an oral surgeon.
However, it should be noted that there is no mechanism for a physician to become a dentist. Additionally, a DDS/MD is a terminal degree, meaning that one cannot complete an oral surgery residency and then pursue another medical residency, such as becoming a cardiologist or pediatrician.
Conclusion
While it is possible to be both a dentist and a doctor, it requires a significant investment of time and dedication. The dual-degree path is a challenging but rewarding journey for those who are passionate about both fields.
Note from Dr. Robbie G: If you've ever experienced the unfortunate situation where your dentist mistakenly removed a good tooth, resulting in the need for further surgery, imagine a dentist who is also a physician. Such a dual-qualified individual can provide integrated care for complex oral and medical issues.