"Doctor of Dental Medicine" is a professional degree conferred upon individuals who have successfully completed their education and training in the field of dentistry. Some of the common synonyms for the term include "dental surgeon," "oral therapist," "dental practitioner," and "dentist." The term "oral surgeon" is also used to refer to a dentist who has undergone advanced training to specialize in surgical procedures in the mouth, while "orthodontist" refers to a dentist who specializes in the treatment of misaligned teeth and jaws. Other terms that are sometimes used include "endodontist" for a dentist specializing in root canal treatment, and "periodontist" for one specializing in gum disease and related ailments. Ultimately, all of these terms refer to individuals who are trained to treat and prevent dental problems and promote oral health.