DDS is a professional degree that is awarded to dentists who have completed a four-year dental program at an accredited dental school. Dr., on the other hand, is a more general title that can be used by anyone who has earned a doctorate degree, regardless of their field of study.
In the United States, all dentists are required to have a DDS degree in order to practice. However, some dentists may also choose to earn a Dr. degree in addition to their DDS, typically by completing a research-based doctoral program in dentistry.
While both DDS and Dr. are respected titles, there is a perception among some that dentists with a Dr. degree have a higher level of education and expertise. However, this is not necessarily the case. Both DDS and Dr. dentists are fully qualified to provide dental care.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a dentist is to find someone who is experienced, qualified, and whom you feel comfortable with. Whether they have a DDS or Dr. degree is a secondary consideration.