25 Best Dental Schools In The US

25 Best Dental Schools In The US

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Want to know more about the Best Dental Schools In the US and make an informed decision? Here is a good place to start.

When it comes to pursuing a career in dentistry, attending a top-ranked dental school can provide a solid foundation and open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. 

With hundreds of options available, it can be difficult to determine which schools offer the best programs.

In this article, we will explore the best dentistry schools in the United States, examining their rankings, admission requirements, program offerings, and other factors to help you decide which school to attend.

Please note that schools are selected based on our criteria (at the end of the article), ranked by the latest acceptance rate. 

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#25. University of Southern California

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: University of Southern California
Credits: University of Southern California
  • Acceptance rate: 16%
  • Average entry score: 20.3 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 9 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $129,220
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $85,200-$200,000 (College Simply)

Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC boasts a rich history of providing excellence in dental education. 

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a faculty that is committed to research. The school’s reputation in the dental community has grown steadily over the years, with graduates heavily recruited by major organizations.

A strong dental school curriculum complements the USC School of Dentistry’s strong reputation, making it a top choice for aspiring dentists. The school equips students with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive dental community.

#24. University of Illinois at Chicago

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: UIC College of Dentistry
Credits: UIC College of Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 15.09%
  • Average entry score: 20.5 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $52,474-$78,711
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $99,800 (College Simply)

This institution’s College of Dentistry combines research and innovative curriculum to prepare students for a dynamic and challenging career in dentistry. 

The college helps students gain an in-depth understanding of the complex oral health care system while also developing their clinical, leadership and professional skills.

Through their research, faculty members are able to improve oral health care delivery by expanding knowledge about how diseases develop and how they can be prevented.

This way, graduates can offer patients the most effective treatment and preventative care possible.


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#23. Boston University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Boston University
Credits: Boston University
  • Acceptance rate: 13%
  • Average entry score: 20.2 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 11 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $128,203
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $118,400 (College Simply)

Boston University’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine trains students in comprehensive dental care, from preventive services to restorative treatments and cosmetic dentistry.

The school’s focus on oral health education has attracted millions of dollars in research grants. This has allowed the institution to fund projects that benefit students, faculty members and patients.

Graduates are well prepared to meet the challenges of the rapidly changing dental field. The school’s reputation is also bolstered by its alumni network and involvement in professional organizations such as the American Dental Association.


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#22. University of Washington–Seattle

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: UW School of Dentistry
Credits: UW School of Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 13%
  • Average entry score: 19-21 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 3 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $76,810-$141,156
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $197,000 (College Simply)

UW School of Dentistry is a nationally renowned dental school that has one of the highest ranking programs in oral health research. The school is home to more than 80 faculty members, many of whom are internationally recognized leaders in their fields.

UW offers students an excellent education and a supportive environment in which they can become well-rounded professionals who excel both professionally and personally.

UW graduates are well-equipped to enter the field of dentistry and pursue a career that will enable them to make a difference in the lives of others.

What’s it like to study dental medicine at the University of Washington, Seattle?


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#21. New York University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Meet NYU
Credits: Meet NYU
  • Acceptance rate: 12.09%
  • Average entry score: 19-24 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 8 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $92,371
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $145,261 (Glassdoor)

The College of Dentistry at NY University is one of the largest dental schools in the United States. As a top academic dental program, it offers a full range of degree programs.

These include a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) and an Advanced Standing Program for students who have completed undergraduate degrees in other fields and wish to pursue advanced training in dentistry.

The faculty at the College of Dentistry includes members with expertise in all areas of dentistry and dental research. They provide students with a wide range of opportunities for personal growth and professional development.

The College of Dentistry is also home to several centers and institutes that offer specialized training in oral health care delivery, oral biology, biomaterials and restorative dentistry.


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What’s it like to study dental medicine at New York University?

#20. Augusta University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Augusta University
Credits: Augusta University
  • Acceptance rate: 11.4%
  • Average entry score: 19.9 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees per semester): $13,172-$32,389
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $212,720

Dental College of Georgia shapes dental professionals with the skills needed to provide quality care and improve the health of their patients. The school is located in Augusta, Georgia, and offers a four-year program for students who have already earned an undergraduate degree. 

Graduates of this program are eligible to become dentists or dental hygienists.

With a strong commitment to research, the school is known for its contributions in the field of dental care. The dental college has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best graduate programs in dentistry and oral health for several years running.


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#19. The Ohio State University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: OSU
Credits: OSU
  • Acceptance rate: 11%
  • Average entry score: 17 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $47,668-$148,265
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $231,200 (College Simply)

Ohio State University educates students in the arts and sciences, medicine, nursing and public health. This institution is home to The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, which offers a DDS degree program that prepares students for careers in dentistry.

With more than 60 years of experience and a record of excellence, this program is one of the best in the country. The curriculum includes courses on dental materials, prosthetics, periodontics and orthodontics. Students also learn about implantology, endodontics and oral health services.

Graduates of this program have all of the tools and knowledge they need to be successful in their careers.


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#18. University of California-San Francisco

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: UCSF School of Dentistry
Credits: UCSF School of Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 10.9%
  • Average entry score: 22.8 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 14 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $53,061-$65,306
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $226,921 (Glassdoor)

The University of California–San Francisco’s School of Dentistry is one of the nation’s leading medical schools. 

This school is a major research institution that has pioneered many innovations in dentistry and oral health care. UCSF is committed to improving patient care through education, research, and community service.

With its close proximity to Silicon Valley, the school benefits from access to a wealth of new technologies and ideas. The University of California-San Francisco offers an atmosphere that encourages collaboration among faculty members, students, and staff.

What’s it like to study dental medicine at the University of California, San Francisco?


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#17. University of Minnesota–Twin Cities

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Credits: School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
  • Acceptance rate: 9.16%
  • Average entry score: 20.9 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $38,479-$71,284
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $132,300 (College Simply)

The University of Minnesota provides a conducive environment for dental students to learn and grow. The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, which ensures that graduates are qualified to work in any state.

With a focus on patient care, this university offers excellent opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations throughout their education. Students also have access to research labs where they can participate in cutting-edge studies related to dentistry.

Employers prefer to hire graduates from this program because of its high standards in academics, clinical training and research opportunities.

#16. University of Alabama–Birmingham

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: School of Dentistry
Credits: School of Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 8.66%
  • Average entry score: 21.6 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 19 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition): $30,972-$72,196
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $143,800 (College Simply)

With over 73 years of experience, the University of Alabama–Birmingham School of Dentistry is a well-respected institution. Its undergraduate and graduate programs equip students with the skills necessary to enter a variety of dentistry-related fields.

UAB’S dental medicine programs also boasts a strong alumni network, which provides students with a well-connected and knowledgeable support system. UAB’s graduates are known for their dedication to excellence in all aspects of dentistry. They lead the way in research, innovation and patient care.

#15. Texas A&M University–College Station

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Texas A&M Career Center
Credits: Texas A&M Career Center
  • Acceptance rate: 7.2%
  • Average entry score: 20 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 21 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $67,593-$68,655
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $133,300 (College Simply)

Texas A&M University–College Station is one of the largest public universities in the U.S. The dental school prepares students to become dentists with a focus on science and health. Students will gain clinical experience through hands-on training at the university’s Science Center.

This center features state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, allowing students to study dentistry in a contemporary setting.

Students will also gain experience in the field of dentistry through a clinical training program that gives them the opportunity to work with patients at the university’s dental clinic.

#14. Columbia University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: College of Dental Medicine, Columbia University
Credits: College of Dental Medicine, Columbia University
  • Acceptance rate: 7%
  • Average entry score: 23.9 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 6 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $55,128-$89,788
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $74,200 (Grad Reports)

Columbia University’s College of Dental Medicine emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to dental medicine. The college’s curriculum is designed to train students in both clinical and basic sciences, allowing them to understand how the body works and how diseases develop.

Faculty comprises dental health professionals and researchers actively engaged in clinical practice, teaching, research and community service. These experienced professors and practitioners bring a wealth of knowledge to the classroom, providing students with an unparalleled educational experience.

Students have access to the university’s extensive library, housing large collections of dental-related materials. Therefore, graduates are well-equipped to take the next step in their careers as they leave the university.


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#13. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: U-M Dentistry News
Credits: U-M Dentistry News
  • Acceptance rate: 6.7%
  • Average entry score: 3.5 GPA or 21.8 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 15 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $84,567-$98,473
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $204,000 (College Factual)

The University of Michigan–Ann Arbor is the number one public research university in the United States. The school’s dental program is one of the most competitive, with an acceptance rate of just over 10%.

However, it offers a wide range of clinical opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience. Students are also given opportunities to work directly with patients at community clinics and other sites throughout their dental education.

The close-knit community of dental students, faculty and staff is another aspect that makes the U-M School of Dentistry such a great place to be. The school’s facilities are modern, with state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

What’s it like to study dental medicine at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor?

#12. University of Maryland–Baltimore

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: University of Maryland
Credits: University of Maryland
  • Acceptance rate: 6.68%
  • Average entry score: 21 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 2 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition): $37,817-$66,912 
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $65,957 (College Factual)

The University of Maryland offers several undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs in dentistry. This program strives to provide students with the tools they need to become exceptional dental professionals.

Thanks to a wealth of resources, graduates of the university can be confident in their ability to enter the dental field. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to become dental health professionals, making them an asset to any team.

#11. University of California–Los Angeles

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: UCLA Dentistry
Credits: UCLA Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 6.36%
  • Average entry score: 20 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $102,080
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $170,110 (Glassdoor)

This university’s top-ranked dental school provides students with an excellent education and training. UCLA’s School of Dentistry is dedicated to providing patients with the best possible care and teaching students how to become dentists.

Students who attend the UCLA School of Dentistry have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a dental clinic that provides students with real-world experiences in caring for patients.

Graduates of the UCLA School of Dentistry are highly qualified to provide a wide range of treatments and services, including general dentistry and specialty areas such as orthodontics, oral surgery and pediatric dentistry.

#10. University of Pennsylvania

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Penn Dental Medicine
Credits: Penn Dental Medicine
  • Acceptance rate: 5.9%
  • Average entry score: 20 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 7 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $134,888
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $169,214 (Glassdoor)

Penn Dental Medicine is a world leader in dental education. The school’s faculty and students are dedicated to providing high-quality care and research, as well as teaching future generations of dentists. 

Penn Dental Medicine has a reputation for excellence in both clinical practice and dental research, making it a top choice among aspiring dentists.

With a rich history of innovation, Penn Dental Medicine is a leading dental school that remains at the forefront of dental care. The school’s faculty and students continue to provide exceptional care and teaching, making Penn Dental Medicine one of the top dental schools in the country.


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#9. University of Florida

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: UF College of Dentistry
Credits: UF College of Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 5.5%
  • Average entry score: 22.2 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $80,870
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $106,900 (College Simply)

UF’s College of Dentistry is the largest dental school in the Southeastern U.S. The college is home to a research institute that focuses on oral health, and students have access to many facilities that are used for teaching and research purposes.

Its ADA-accredited dental program has a curriculum that covers all aspects of dentistry, including clinical sciences, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics and prosthetics.

UF graduates are prepared to work in a variety of dental practices, ranging from general dentistry to pediatric dentistry. The college also has a pre-doctoral program that helps students prepare for advanced degrees in research and academia.

#8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Adams School of Dentistry
Credits: Adams School of Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 5.4%
  • Average entry score: 21.8 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 13 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $24,228-$51,407
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $82,100-$200,000 (College Simply)

As the oldest dental school in North Carolina, the Adams School of Dentistry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a nationally recognized leader in dental education. The school offers an excellent program that includes all aspects of dental care, including clinical training.

This school is part of the UNC Health Care system, meaning students can access top-notch clinical facilities and learning opportunities. The school’s curriculum includes hands-on training in all aspects of dentistry, as well as classroom instruction in dental surgery procedures and basic sciences.

Many employers prefer to hire graduates of the UNC School of Dentistry because they are able to provide a high level of service and care to patients.

What’s it like to study dental medicine at UNC-Chapel Hill?

#7. University of Rochester

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: URMC
Credits: URMC
  • Acceptance rate: 4.37%
  • Average entry score: 511 MCAT 
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 9 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $69,367
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $150,200 (Grad Reports)

The University of Rochester’s Eastman Institute of Oral Health trains dentists for a lifetime of service. This school provides students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to become exceptional oral health professionals who are ready to serve the public from day one.

Students learn through hands-on experiences that range from clinical practice in the school’s state-of-the-art facilities. The school’s postdoctoral program is an integral part of the training program.

It provides students with a full range of clinical experiences and research opportunities to help them become tomorrow’s leaders in oral health care.

But you can only enrol for postdoctoral and residency programs as its university doesn’t have a bachelor’s dental dentistry degree program.

#6. Harvard University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Harvard medical students, Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Credits: Harvard medical students, Harvard School of Dental Medicine
  • Acceptance rate: 4%
  • Average entry score: 22 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 7 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $101,659-$116,631
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $58,100-$200,000 (College Simply)

Harvard School of Dental Medicine offers students an unparallel opportunity to explore the many facets of dentistry. The school provides a full range of programs to meet the needs and interests of our students. 

Harvard graduates are leaders in providing comprehensive oral health care for patients in communities around the world.

DMD students have the opportunity to work with faculty members who are leaders in their fields. They also have access to a wide range of clinical experiences at Harvard dental center and the school-affiliated hospitals and clinics, as well as other community-based facilities.

What’s it like to study dental medicine at Harvard University?


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#5. University of Iowa

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: University of Iowa, College of Dentistry
Credits: University of Iowa, College of Dentistry
  • Acceptance rate: 3.8%
  • Average entry score: 21 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 15 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $90,022-$115,160
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $123,700 (College Simply)

The College of Dentistry at the University of Iowa is home to one of the country’s fastest growing dental schools. The College of Dentistry at the University of Iowa offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral degrees in dentistry.

This college’s faculty includes a number of professors who are leaders in their fields and who have won numerous awards for their teaching, research and clinical service.

Graduates of the University of Iowa’s College of Dentistry have gone on to become professors and researchers at other dental schools, business leaders in the field of dentistry and general practitioners who serve their communities.

What’s it like to study dental medicine at the University of Iowa?

#4. University of Pittsburgh

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: University of Pittsburgh
Credits: University of Pittsburgh
  • Acceptance rate: 3.7%
  • Average entry score: 19 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 14 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $99,482
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $72,000 (College Simply)

Pitt Dental Medicine has been producing outstanding graduates for more than a century. This school uses cutting-edge technology to provide students with a 21st century education.

The rigorous curriculum is a blend of traditional and state-of-the-art teaching methods. The school’s goal is to produce graduates who are highly trained and able to provide their patients with the best possible care. Pitt Dental Medicine offers a variety of specialty programs that are designed to help students achieve their career goals.

Therefore, it’s no surprise that Pitt Dental Medicine has earned a reputation for excellence. Students who attend this school are among the best and brightest in the field of dentistry.

#3. Loma Linda University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Loma Linda University
Credits: Loma Linda University
  • Acceptance rate: 2.56%
  • Average entry score: 19 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 3 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $93,275-$104,562
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $73,640-$105,240

Loma Linda University combines Christian values and academic excellence to provide a wholesome, supportive environment for students. The school offers many opportunities for students to participate in service learning projects and hands-on clinical experiences.

Loma Linda University’s dental program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.

Dental medicine graduates have an excellent track record of success in the field, with many alumni going on to become dental specialists and researchers. The school’s pre-dental program is open to both traditional undergraduate students and those who already have a bachelor’s degree.

#2. Tufts University

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Tufts Dental Central
Credits: Tufts Dental Central
  • Acceptance rate: 2.1%
  • Average entry score: 20 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 9 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $51,855-$103,710
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $204,400 (College Simply)

Tufts’ rigorous commitment to academic excellence is evident in its academic programs, which are ranked among the best in the nation. The university’s School of Dental Medicine offers a well-rounded curriculum covering all aspects of oral health care.

They also receive hands-on training in state-of-the-art laboratories and classrooms equipped with modern technology.

Tufts University graduates stand out among their peers for their ability to adapt to changes in the field of dentistry and their commitment to providing quality care. Their training also gives them a unique advantage when it comes to research. They are able to draw on both academic knowledge and real-world experience.

#1. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

Best Dental Schools
Best Dental Schools : Credits: Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
Credits: Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
  • Acceptance rate: 2%
  • Average entry score: 20 DAT
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 2 to 1
  • Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $99,396
  • Average earning potential for graduates: $55,000-$100,000 ( College Mayo)

Mayo Clinic College is an innovative, interdisciplinary medical school that prepares students for careers in medicine and health sciences.

This institution offers one of the best graduate-level dental medicine programs in the United States. The school is known for its advanced training in medical specialties, including oral and maxillofacial surgery, dentistry and biomedical sciences.

Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National Board Dental Examination and become licensed dentists. They have the skills and expertise to provide comprehensive treatment to patients with oral and maxillofacial problems.

Conclusion

Dentistry is a rewarding and fulfilling profession. If you are considering a career in dentistry, choosing the right dentistry school is crucial to your success. The United States is home to many excellent dentistry schools offering a range of programs and specialties.

These schools provide students with an extensive curriculum, clinical experience, research opportunities, and career support.

By researching the best dentistry schools and their programs, admission requirements, and other factors, you can decide where to pursue your dentistry education. Whether you choose to attend a public or private institution, the journey to becoming a successful dentist can be challenging but highly rewarding.

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🚀 A thoughtful CV is more likely to get a thoughtful response. Often "thoughtful" just means you have taken the time to understand what they need and reflect that understanding on your CV. 
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💡 Check out these tools to boost your productivity and impact.

Selection Criteria

Here is a list of the factors we considered when selecting the best dental schools:

Please note that the order in this list might vary by ranking criteria and sources.

  1. Reputation and ranking of the school: We looked for schools that have a strong reputation and high ranking in the field of dentistry.
  2. Faculty expertise, qualifications, and specialization: We researched the faculty members and their areas of expertise, and qualifications to ensure that the school has professors with relevant expertise and specialization in the areas of dentistry that are of interest.
  3. Curriculum and resources: We evaluated the curriculum to ensure it aligns with students’ interests and career goals and considered the quality of the school’s facilities and resources, such as labs, equipment, and libraries.
  4. Opportunities for hands-on learning and research: We looked for schools that provide opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, co-op programs, or fieldwork.
  5. Student support services and alumni network: We considered the availability of support services and the strength of the alumni network in providing mentorship, internships, and job opportunities after graduation.
  6. Extracurricular activities and diversity: We evaluated the availability of extracurricular activities and clubs that align with students’ interests and considered the school’s diversity and inclusivity.
  7. Networking and post-graduation support: We researched the school’s network of alumni and their post-graduation support for dentistry students, and also considered if the schools have a strong network of industry professionals and researchers in the field of dental medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How competitive is the application process for dentistry schools?

Admission to dental school is highly selective, with only a limited number of seats available. The acceptance rates vary depending on the school, but in general, they are very low. 

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the average acceptance rate for dental schools in the United States is around 40%.

To be a competitive candidate for dental school, applicants should have a strong academic record, excellent scores on the Dental Admission Test (DAT), relevant clinical and research experience, and a demonstrated commitment to the field of dentistry.

Strong letters of recommendation and an engaging personal statement are also important to the application process.

Q2. How competitive is the application process for dentistry schools?

Many graduates choose to work in private practice as general dentists, while others may choose to specialize in areas such as orthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, or oral and maxillofacial surgery. Additionally, dentists may work in public health clinics, hospitals, research centers, or in academia as professors.

The demand for dental services is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by an aging population and an increasing awareness of the importance of oral health. This means that job opportunities for dentists are likely to remain strong, especially in areas where there is a shortage of dentists.

Here is a list of the highest-paying dentistry careers.

Q3. Can I specialize in a particular area of dentistry during my studies?

Dentistry programs typically offer a variety of specializations that students can pursue. Some of the most popular specializations include oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, orthodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and pediatric dentistry.

During your studies, you may have the opportunity to take specialized courses or clinical rotations in your area of interest. After completing your general dentistry education, you can pursue additional training in your chosen specialization through a residency program.

It’s important to research your options and speak with your academic advisors to determine which specialization is the best fit for your career goals. Keep in mind that some specializations may require additional training beyond a residency program, such as obtaining board certification or completing continuing education courses.

Q4. What are the best dentistry schools in the United States?

The best dentistry schools in the United States can vary depending on various factors, such as reputation, research opportunities, clinical experience, faculty, and more. 

However, according to the 2022 QS World University Rankings, the following schools are considered the top dentistry schools in the United States:

  • Harvard University
  • University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
  • University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
  • University of Michigan
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Q5. How much does it cost to attend a dentistry school?

The cost of attending a dentistry school can vary depending on the institution and whether you are a resident or non-resident of the state in which the school is located. In general, the cost of attending a dentistry program can range from $100,000 to $500,000 for the entire program.

This includes tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses. Some schools may offer financial aid, scholarships, or other funding opportunities to help offset the cost of attendance.

References

[1] Official Websites 

[2] Salary Data from Glass Door, College Factual; College Simply, Zippia

[3] Ranking references including news media such as 100 Best Dental Schools In the United States.


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SJ Tsai
Chief Editor. Writer wrangler. Research guru. Three years at scijournal. Hails from a family with five PhDs. When not shaping content, creates art. Peek at the collection on Etsy. For thoughts and updates, hit up Twitter.

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