Dentistry has nine specialty fields recognized by the American Dental Association, each of which requires additional schooling beyond the four years associated with DDS and DMD degrees

Dental specialties are recognized by the Association to protect the public, nurture the art and science of dentistry, and improve the quality of care. It is the Associations’ belief that the needs of the public are best served if the profession is oriented primarily to general practice. Specialties are recognized in those areas where advanced knowledge and skills are essential to maintain or restore oral health.

A specialty is an area of dentistry that has been formally recognized by the American Dental Association as meeting the Requirements for Recognition of Dental Specialties and National Certifying Boards for Dental Specialists.