If you’re wondering which are the best dental schools in the U.S., you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what makes a dental school truly "the best", highlight some of the top-ranked programs, and share advice on how to choose the one that fits you best. Whether you're aiming for Harvard or looking for a more affordable, in-state option, we’ve got you covered. If you're still planning your application, check out our guides on how to get into dental school and dental school personal statement examples for extra help.
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What Actually Makes a Dental School “The Best”?
- There’s no single "best" dental school for everyone. What really matters is how well a school matches your goals, budget, and future career path.
- Some schools are well-known for their cutting-edge research and academic prestige. Others shine when it comes to hands-on clinical training or community outreach. You might be drawn to a program with a strong specialization track, like oral surgery or pediatric dentistry, or you may just want solid, well-rounded training in general practice.
- Don’t forget about practical stuff like cost, location, and class size. It’s not just about where you can get in; it’s about where you’ll thrive.
Top Dental Schools in the U.S.
Let’s look at some of the dental schools that consistently rank among the best in the country. These schools have strong reputations and great resources, and they are worth considering if you’re aiming high.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
No surprise here! Harvard’s dental school in Boston is often ranked at the very top. What makes it stand out? It’s incredibly research-focused, and it’s also one of the few schools where dental students train alongside med students in the early years. If you’re interested in biomedical science or a dual-degree path, Harvard could be a dream fit.
That said, it’s also incredibly competitive and expensive. You’ll need near perfect stats and a compelling application to stand a chance.
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Michigan is a powerhouse when it comes to both research and clinical experience. It consistently ranks #1 on research-focused lists and is known for its innovation in dental education.
The school offers a well-rounded curriculum and access to some of the best faculty in the field. It’s a great choice for those looking to balance research and patient care. Just keep in mind: out-of-state tuition can be high.
Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, UNC has built a reputation for producing well-trained, compassionate clinicians. The school emphasizes both academic excellence and service, especially to underserved communities.
If you’re the kind of applicant who’s drawn to public health or outreach, or you just want solid clinical training with a personal touch, UNC is definitely worth a look.
If you’d rather be on the West Coast, UCSF is a strong contender. Known for its forward-thinking approach and strong research presence, it’s also one of the oldest dental schools in the region.
San Francisco has a high cost of living, so that’s something to keep in mind, but the clinical exposure and innovation there are hard to beat.
NYU has one of the largest dental schools in the country, and that comes with some major perks: a huge alumni network, diverse patient populations, and a wide range of clinical opportunities.
It’s also located in the heart of New York City, which means incredible exposure to real-world cases but also, yes, big-city expenses.
Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Another Ivy League option, Columbia offers prestige, research opportunities, and rigorous academics. It’s especially strong for students considering dual degrees or future specialization.
It’s also extremely competitive, so you’ll need a stellar application and strong academic record to be considered.
So… How Do You Choose the Right School for You?
Now that we’ve looked at some of the top options, the next step is figuring out which ones actually fit you.
Start by asking yourself what you want out of dental school. Are you more interested in community-based care or do you want to go into research? Are you planning to specialize or stick to general dentistry? Do you want to stay close to home or explore a new city?
Also, think realistically about cost. Dental school isn’t cheap. Some programs are over $100,000 per year once you factor in living expenses. If that number makes you sweat, it’s okay to prioritize public or in-state schools.
Finally, trust your gut. Look into the student culture, curriculum style, and even how the admissions office communicates. You’ll be spending four intense years there. Make sure it feels right.
What You'll Need to Get In
If you’re aiming for one of these top schools (or any dental school, really), there are a few boxes you’ll definitely need to check.
First, you’ll want a competitive GPA, especially in your science courses. Most accepted students have GPAs well above 3.5.
You’ll also need a strong DAT score. Aim for a score of 20 or above to stay competitive, and even higher for top-tier schools.
Shadowing is a must. Most schools expect at least 50–100 hours, and some prefer even more. Try to shadow in a few different settings if you can.
Strong letters of recommendation, a clear and compelling personal statement, and a track record of volunteering or working in health-related environments will also strengthen your application.]
Final Thoughts
Choosing a dental school isn’t just about going for the highest-ranking name. It’s about finding the program that aligns with your goals, values, and future plans. Whether you’re eyeing Harvard or your state school, do your research, visit campuses, talk to students, and focus on putting together the strongest application possible.
And remember: You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to be prepared, passionate, and persistent.
FAQs
1. Are DDS and DMD degrees different?
No, they’re the same degree. Some schools just use different terminology.
2. How long does dental school take?
Dental school usually takes three to four years, after you’ve completed your undergraduate degree.
3. What GPA and DAT do I need for top schools?
Ideally, a GPA of 3.6+ and a DAT score of 21 or higher, but holistic admissions means your personal story matters too. Always make sure to research the schools you are interested in to see what specific requirements or admissions expectations they have.
4. Do top-ranked schools have better job prospects?
They can open more doors, especially for specialization, but your own performance and clinical skills count just as much.
5. Is research experience required?
Not always, but it helps, especially if you’re applying to research-focused schools like Harvard or UCSF.
6. What’s the average cost of dental school?
It varies, but expect to pay $60,000–$100,000 per year, including tuition and living expenses. Private schools are usually significantly more expensive than public schools, and in-state tuition can also save you money.
7. How many schools should I apply to?
Most applicants apply to 8–12 programs to balance reach, match, and safety options.
8. When should I start preparing?
Now! The earlier, the better. Focus on your GPA, plan for the DAT, and start shadowing dentists as early as your freshman year.
To your success,
Your friends at BeMo
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