What Does a DDS Do?

A dentist’s central purpose is to protect and restore patients’ oral health. Dentists examine teeth and gums to identify problems and understand what concerns patients. They use clinical findings and relevant health information to diagnose conditions and decide whether treatment is needed. They provide appropriate care or arrange further evaluation, then explain follow-up steps. This work helps patients address oral health problems and make informed decisions about their care.

What Is a DD?

Here, DD means dentist. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery, a degree held by dentists; Doctor of Dental Medicine, or DMD, is another dental degree. General dentists examine, diagnose, and treat conditions affecting teeth and gums, and may provide preventive care. O*NET describes general dentists’ work as examining, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions of the teeth and gums.

During an appointment, a dentist asks about the patient’s concerns and relevant health history. The dentist examines the mouth and may use diagnostic imaging to assess areas that are difficult to see. Those findings help the dentist explain the patient’s condition and recommend next steps.

What Are the Main Responsibilities of a DD?

A dentist assesses oral health and determines whether symptoms or examination findings need attention. The dentist examines the mouth and may use dental instruments or imaging to investigate a concern. By considering those findings alongside the patient’s symptoms and health history, the dentist makes a diagnosis and develops a care plan.

The plan reflects the patient’s needs and clinical findings. It may focus on prevention or address a decayed or damaged tooth. If the patient needs care beyond the dentist’s scope of practice, the dentist may recommend evaluation by another provider.

When treatment is appropriate, the dentist performs the procedure while taking steps to protect the patient and clinical team. Anesthetic may be used to help manage pain. After treatment, the dentist explains aftercare and follow-up needs, then documents the care provided. O*NET’s profile for general dentists includes examination, diagnosis, treatment planning, and preventive care among their work.

What Does a DD Do on a Daily Basis?

A dentist typically starts by reviewing the day’s appointments and relevant patient information. At each visit, the dentist asks what brought the patient in and whether symptoms or health history have changed. The dentist then examines the mouth and uses diagnostic equipment when a finding needs closer assessment.

After the examination, the dentist explains the findings and discusses suitable next steps. Depending on the patient’s needs, the visit may involve preventive care or a restorative procedure. The dentist provides aftercare instructions and records the plan. If further care is needed, the dentist arranges follow-up or recommends evaluation by another provider.

What Skills Does a DD Need?

Careful observation helps a dentist notice changes in teeth or gum tissue that may affect an assessment. Critical thinking helps the dentist weigh those findings against the patient’s symptoms before choosing an approach. O*NET identifies critical thinking as a relevant skill for general dentists.

Manual dexterity helps the dentist work precisely in the small treatment area of the mouth. Active listening helps the dentist understand a patient’s concerns before discussing care. Clear speaking helps make findings and next steps understandable. O*NET also identifies listening and speaking as relevant skills for general dentists.

How Much Does a DD Earn?

The median annual wage for dentists was $176,110 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure covers dentists overall and is not limited to people with a DDS degree. Earnings vary by factors such as location, hours worked, specialty, and years in practice.

What Is the Career Progression for a DD?

Dentists must meet the licensing requirements of the state where they practice. A typical path involves completing a dental program and obtaining a state license. Many dentists begin in general practice as associates, while some establish their own practices.

As their careers develop, dentists may take on greater responsibility for managing a practice or move to another work setting. Some pursue a specialty through additional education and training. Others move into teaching, research, or public health work. These are possible paths rather than required steps in a single progression.

How Contingent Workforce Management Helps Businesses Hire DDs

Contingent workforce management services help organizations administer temporary or project-based work arrangements. A dental group may need a DD to cover a clinician’s leave or provide patient care while a new office builds its schedule. If the business has already identified a dentist, hiring that worker directly and using third-party payrolling can be a lower-cost alternative to a staffing agency.

TCWGlobal helps companies manage contingent DDs through payrolling and workforce support. For a defined coverage assignment, this approach can save the company money compared with a staffing agency and reduce administrative work during onboarding and payroll. It lets the company manage the assignment while the dentist focuses on patient care.