20 Best Dental Schools in the United States for 2025: Rankings, Programs, and Admissions Insights
20 Best Dental Schools in the United States for 2025: Rankings, Programs, and Admissions Insights
Choosing the right dental school is a crucial step for anyone pursuing a career in dentistry. The U.S. has some of the top-ranked dental programs in the world, offering elite training in clinical practice, dental research, and community healthcare. This guide highlights the 20 best dental schools in the United States for 2025, based on reputation, research output, academic excellence, and clinical opportunities.
1. Harvard University – Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Founded in 1867, Harvard Dental integrates dentistry with medicine, giving students exposure to cutting-edge biomedical research. With small class sizes and close ties to Harvard Medical School, graduates are highly competitive in specialties and academic dentistry.
2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
UCSF consistently ranks among the top NIH-funded dental research institutions. Students receive training in advanced oral health sciences and serve diverse patient populations across San Francisco.
3. University of Michigan School of Dentistry
One of the oldest dental schools in the nation, Michigan is globally recognized for innovation in oral research, comprehensive patient care, and international exchange programs.
4. University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Penn Dental offers world-class facilities and emphasizes community outreach. Its specialty training programs are among the most competitive in the country.
5. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Columbia stands out for its dual-degree opportunities, integrating dental education with public health and advanced medicine. Located in New York City, students benefit from serving one of the most diverse patient populations.
6. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry
UCLA is a leader in oral biology, craniofacial research, and global outreach. Students participate in groundbreaking research while gaining clinical experience in Los Angeles.
7. University of Washington School of Dentistry
Known for its emphasis on rural and underserved populations, UW focuses on community care, leadership, and policy in dental practice.
8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry
UNC’s strong reputation comes from its patient-first approach and emphasis on hands-on clinical experience early in the program.
9. New York University (NYU) College of Dentistry
The largest dental school in the U.S., NYU provides unparalleled clinical exposure with a massive patient base in New York City. It is also one of the most diverse dental schools in the country.
10. University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Pacific’s accelerated three-year DDS program is unique, allowing students to graduate faster without sacrificing quality. The case-based learning model emphasizes critical thinking.
11. University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Dentistry
UT Health San Antonio is renowned for clinical excellence and service to Texas communities. It is also a leader in dental implantology and oral surgery training.
12. Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
BU combines a strong research foundation with robust community outreach. Its urban location allows for extensive exposure to diverse patient care.
13. University of Florida College of Dentistry
The only dental school in Florida, UF has a strong research infrastructure and is known for its programs in pediatric and rural dentistry.
14. University of Iowa College of Dentistry & Dental Clinics
A pioneer in oral science, Iowa provides comprehensive clinical opportunities and maintains a long-standing reputation in research and academics.
15. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry
UIC emphasizes community health and diversity, training students to serve urban populations while also conducting significant oral health research.
16. University of Maryland School of Dentistry
Founded in 1840, Maryland is the world’s first dental school. Today, it is still a leader in oral health innovation and advanced clinical specialties.
17. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Dentistry
UAB is recognized for its strength in craniofacial development, biomaterials, and translational oral research, making it a top Southern institution.
18. Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine
Case Western emphasizes leadership, community outreach, and academic research. Students gain clinical training in real-world community settings.
19. Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
The only dental school in New Jersey, Rutgers provides extensive early clinical exposure and serves as the state’s primary hub for oral healthcare.
20. University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Minnesota trains most of the state’s dentists and focuses on serving rural and underserved populations, alongside maintaining strong research programs.
Why These Dental Schools Stand Out
These programs consistently rank among the best because they combine academic rigor, cutting-edge research, clinical diversity, and strong community service. Graduates from these schools not only become practicing dentists but also contribute as researchers, educators, and leaders in oral health policy.
Final Thoughts
So, is it worth aiming for these top programs? Absolutely. While admission is highly competitive—with average DAT scores and GPAs well above national norms—graduates gain access to superior training, top residency placements, and lifelong career opportunities. For anyone serious about dentistry, these 20 schools represent the gold standard of education in the U.S.
Sources and Further Reading
BeMo Academic Consulting – Best Dental Schools in the U.S.
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