Is a DDS the same as a general dentist?

As a rule the answer is Yes, from there it branches out into specialization just like doctors in the medical field. A dentist can give you a local to remove a tooth but can not use gas as they need special training and they get a few more letters after the DDS

Is a DDS the same as a general dentist?
Yes. The above however is incorrect. A DDS is a regular dentist with no specialties. If they are a specialist in an area (pediatric, endodontist, oral surgeon, etc) they will have more stuff after their name. A general dentist can do local anesthesia, Nitrous Oxide Gas, fillings, extractions, crowns, dentures, etc. Without special training or certification they cannot do general anesthesia or conscious sedations.
Reply:,First..the answer to your question is "Yes"..they are "now" the same...There was a time when they were not. Many years ago a dental school graduate was considered a GD "General Dentist"..as education standards increased and dental school Out Patient Clinics, provided a greater range of dental procedures, the DDS designation became the attained degree. The earlier dental school graduate would immediately following graduation apply to a hospital to take part in it's Dental Internship Program. That program upon completion earned the dental graduate his or her "Doctor of Dental Surgery" status i.e...a "DDS"...That designation however doesn't mean that the person has the same education depth and training that an "Oral Surgeon" has. ......Good luck and I wish you well.