What is the Best Dental School for You? Top Dental Schools in the US
So You Want to Be a Dentist?
You remember the smell of minty gloves and the gentle hum of the dental drill. You were eight, sitting in that big vinyl chair, feet dangling, wondering how your dentist made everything look so easy. Fast forward a decade or so—and here you are. Dreaming about swapping places. About being the one who calms fears, restores smiles, and makes people feel a little braver in that chair.
If that’s you, welcome. You’re in the right place.
Pursuing a career in dentistry isn’t just about white coats and clean teeth. It’s about precision, compassion, hustle—and finding a school that matches your passion and values. Whether you’ve had this dream since childhood or it hit you during a college anatomy lab, you’re probably wondering: Where should I go? How do I even start?
This guide is built for you—the doers, the dreamers, the ones ready to serve and lead in scrubs. We’re diving into the best dental schools in the U.S. But more importantly, we’re going to help you figure out what your best fit looks like. Because this isn’t just about rankings—it’s about your future. And trust me, it deserves more than just a Google search.
Let’s dig in, tooth and soul.
What Makes a Dental School “The Best”?
Let’s get one thing straight: choosing a dental school isn’t about picking the flashiest toothbrush on the shelf—it’s about finding the one that actually works for your mouth. Sure, rankings can be shiny and persuasive, but they don’t always tell the whole story. In fact, sometimes they distract from what really matters.
So, what does matter?
Clinical Experience: Imagine learning to swim by reading a book. Sounds silly, right? The same goes for dentistry. You need hands-on training with real patients, not just case studies in a classroom. Top dental schools ensure you’re not just shadowing—you’re diagnosing, treating, and learning to trust your hands.
Faculty Mentorship: Great dentists don’t just happen—they’re shaped by great mentors. Look for programs where professors know your name, not just your GPA. The best schools foster a culture where faculty aren’t just grading you—they’re guiding you.
Research Opportunities: If you’re the kind of student who’s curious about the “why” behind the “how,” research is where you’ll thrive. Whether it’s oral cancer detection or biomaterials innovation, top schools support students in pushing dental science forward.
Licensing Pass Rates: It’s not glamorous, but it’s vital. Your ability to practice depends on passing those board exams. A school’s pass rate tells you how well they prepare students for the real world—and that’s a metric worth noting.
Let’s Bust a Myth While We’re At It: Rankings measure prestige. Fit measures your future. That #3-ranked school might be incredible—but if it lacks the clinical exposure you crave or feels culturally off, it might not be your best choice. The “top” school is the one that gets you where you want to go, not just the one that looks great on LinkedIn.
So, forget the one-size-fits-all mentality. This is personal. And your future patients? They’ll thank you for choosing smart over shiny.
Our Top Picks: Leading Dental Schools in the US
Choosing the right dental school is like selecting the perfect pair of gloves—they need to fit just right, offering the comfort and support you need to excel. Here’s a curated list of standout dental schools across the U.S., each offering unique strengths to help you find your ideal match.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
- Acceptance Rate: 3%
- Minimum GPA: 3.6
- Minimum DAT: 20
- Cost of Attendance: ~$100K/year
Nestled in Boston’s Longwood Medical Area, HSDM offers a comprehensive DMD curriculum that blends a strong foundation in basic sciences with hands-on clinical training . Students can pursue dual-degree programs, such as the DMD-DMSc, preparing future academic leaders in dental medicine with expertise in translational and clinical research.
Imagine a student passionate about research, delving into craniofacial anomalies while simultaneously treating patients in community clinics, embodying HSDM’s commitment to integrating research and clinical practice.
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
- Acceptance Rate: ~6.5%
- Minimum GPA: 3.8
- Minimum DAT: 22
- Cost of Attendance: ~$95K/year (in-state is lower)
Located in Ann Arbor, this school emphasizes community-based collaborative care, with students spending 12 weeks in outreach programs across Michigan . The DDS/MBA dual degree caters to those interested in combining dentistry with business acumen.
Picture a student leading a community dental initiative in a rural Michigan town, applying both clinical skills and business strategies learned through the dual-degree program.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Adams School of Dentistry)
- Acceptance Rate: ~5%
- Minimum GPA: 3.6
- Minimum DAT: 21
- Cost of Attendance: ~$50K/year in-state
UNC’s DDS-MBA dual degree equips students for a dynamic work environment, blending clinical expertise with business skills . The school fosters Advocate-Clinician-Thinkers, preparing graduates to impact both patient care and healthcare systems.
Envision a student developing a mobile dental clinic business plan, aiming to serve underserved communities while honing entrepreneurial skills.
Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
- Acceptance Rate: ~5%
- Minimum GPA: 3.7
- Minimum DAT: 23
- Cost of Attendance: ~$140K/year
Situated in New York City, Columbia offers dual degrees with other professional schools, including a DDS/MPH program in collaboration with the Mailman School of Public Health . The innovative curriculum integrates basic sciences with clinical skills, keeping pace with advancements in dental medicine.
Imagine a student analyzing public health data to develop community oral health programs, bridging clinical practice with population health.
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
- Acceptance Rate: ~4%
- Minimum GPA: 3.6
- Minimum DAT: 22
- Cost of Attendance: ~$100K/year
UCSF balances clinical excellence, research opportunities, and community service . The DDS/MBA program combines dental science with management and leadership, preparing students for diverse career paths.
Consider a student leading a research project on oral health disparities while managing a student-run clinic, embodying UCSF’s multifaceted approach.
University of Pennsylvania (Penn Dental Medicine)
- Acceptance Rate: ~6%
- Minimum GPA: 3.5
- Minimum DAT: 20
- Cost of Attendance: ~$83K/year
Penn offers a comprehensive DMD program with early clinical exposure through a vertical clinical program . Students can pursue various dual-degree options, including a new program in nutrition science . Community outreach is integral, with students providing oral health services to underserved populations.
Picture a student integrating nutritional counseling into patient care, reflecting the holistic education at Penn.
New York University (NYU) College of Dentistry
- Acceptance Rate: ~6%
- Minimum GPA: 3.5
- Minimum DAT: 21
- Cost of Attendance: ~$120K/year
As the largest dental school in the U.S., NYU offers extensive clinical practice and community dentistry programs . The BA/DDS joint degree program accelerates the path for motivated students.
Imagine a student participating in public health dentistry initiatives, gaining diverse experiences in New York’s vibrant communities.
University of Florida College of Dentistry
- Acceptance Rate: ~5%
- Minimum GPA: 3.7
- Minimum DAT: 20
- Cost of Attendance: ~$75K/year in-state
UF’s DMD-PhD program trains future leaders in academic research, focusing on clinical disorders related to oral health . Community-based outreach programs provide preventive dental services to children in Alachua and Collier counties.
Envision a student conducting research on pediatric oral health while delivering care in community clinics.
University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Minimum GPA: 3.6
- Minimum DAT: 21-22
- Cost of Attendance: ~$60K/year (varies)
UConn offers a five-year dual degree program for students interested in public health or clinical and translational research . The Special Program in Dental Medicine links undergraduate preparation with dental education, fostering early engagement.
Consider a student analyzing epidemiological data to inform public health policies, exemplifying UConn’s integration of research and practice.
University of Southern California (Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry)
- Acceptance Rate: ~4%
- Minimum GPA: 3.6
- Minimum DAT: 21
- Cost of Attendance: ~$110K/year
Ostrow’s learner-centered curriculum emphasizes comprehensive clinical training, with students spending nearly two years in the Simulation Lab . Community service is a cornerstone, with programs designed to teach qualified dentists from non-U.S. countries.
Imagine a student refining hand skills in the Simulation Lab before applying them in community clinics, embodying Ostrow’s commitment to service and excellence.
Each of these schools offers unique opportunities to align with your career aspirations. Remember, the best fit isn’t just about prestige—it’s about finding a program that resonates with your goals and values.
Finding Your Fit: How to Choose the Right Dental School for You
Let’s be real: applying to dental school isn’t just about getting in—it’s about getting it right. And the “right” school? That depends entirely on you.
Start with a gut check. What kind of dentist do you want to be?
Do you see yourself leading groundbreaking research on oral diseases—or running a buzzing private practice in your hometown? Would you thrive in a fast-paced city hospital, or are you picturing long-term patient relationships in a small-town clinic?
Your career goals should be the compass here. If research excites you, prioritize schools with robust dual-degree or lab opportunities. If serving the underserved is your mission, look for programs steeped in community outreach. Want to specialize in orthodontics, periodontics, or pediatrics? Some schools have stronger pipelines and faculty support in those areas—dig into that.
Then, get real about your financial situation. Dental school isn’t cheap. Public institutions often offer lower tuition for in-state students. Are scholarships, financial aid, or loan forgiveness programs available? Don’t skip this part—your future self will thank you.
Next up: location, location, location. Do you want to be near family? Thrive in a coastal city or a quieter college town? Weather, culture, and even patient demographics can all impact your experience.
Ask yourself: Do I want a big class where I can blend in, or a small program where I’ll stand out?
Also, think back a step—where you’re doing your pre-dental work matters too. Schools like UCLA, University of Texas at Austin, and University of Florida offer strong pre-dental advising and research access. They’re great launchpads that can help you build a strong application for dental school later.
Remember: this journey isn’t about fitting into a school’s mold—it’s about finding a place that fits your values, strengths, and vision for the kind of dentist you want to become.
So take a beat. Reflect. And start charting a path that’s yours.
The Road to Dental School: Tips for Strengthening Your Application
So, how do you actually get in? Here’s the truth: dental schools aren’t just looking for high GPAs and polished resumes. They want future colleagues—people who are competent, compassionate, and ready to do the work.
Start with shadowing. Not just once. Follow general dentists, oral surgeons, pediatric specialists—immerse yourself in the day-to-day grind and joy of the profession. Schools want to see that you’ve done your homework and still want the job.
Volunteering is just as key. Whether you’re helping at a free clinic, mentoring pre-health students, or organizing health fairs, community engagement shows you’re ready to serve, not just succeed.
Academics still matter, of course. A solid GPA—especially in science courses—is critical. And while most dental schools don’t require the MCAT, the DAT (Dental Admission Test) is your real hurdle. Aim to crush it, but don’t panic if your first attempt isn’t perfect.
Let me tell you about a student—we’ll call him Marcus. Marcus bombed his first DAT. Like, really bombed it. But instead of spiraling, he regrouped, worked with a coach, and refocused on his “why.” He retook the test, raised his score by five points, and rewrote his personal statement to reflect not just his resilience, but his real growth. Today? He’s at one of the top dental schools in the country—and thriving.
That’s the kind of story we help students build at Admit Advantage. One that’s not about perfection, but persistence. One that feels like you.
So start now. Shadow. Serve. Study. Reflect. And remember: every part of your story—even the messy ones—can be shaped into something powerful.
Final Word: You’ve Got This
Here’s what we hope you take away from all this: yes, rankings can guide you—but fit is what will carry you. The right dental school is the one that sees your potential, sharpens your strengths, and aligns with your dreams.
Believe this: your journey matters. Your grit, your purpose, your willingness to keep showing up—that’s what makes you a future dentist worth rooting for.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Admit Advantage, we help future dentists like you find clarity, confidence, and a game plan that actually works.
Ready to map out your next steps? Schedule a free consultation with us today. Your future patients are counting on you—and we can’t wait to help you get there.