Best Dental Schools in the World 2025: Top 10 Universities for Dentistry, Oral Health, and Dental Research

Oct 16

Choosing the right dental school can define a career in oral health, surgery, or academic research. As technology transforms modern dentistry—from digital imaging and biomaterials to regenerative oral medicine—the top dental universities in the world are leading the way.

These institutions combine clinical excellence, research innovation, and global reputation to produce the next generation of dentists and dental scientists. Based on academic rankings, research impact, and clinical standards, here are the ten best dental schools in the world for 2025.

1. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor – United States

The University of Michigan School of Dentistry ranks number one globally in the 2025 QS World University Rankings for Dentistry. Founded in 1875, it’s one of the oldest and most advanced dental schools in the world.
Michigan’s program blends top-tier research in oral biology and materials science with advanced patient care. Students have access to over 15 specialty clinics, simulation laboratories, and global research partnerships. The school’s long-standing reputation for innovation makes it a model for dental education worldwide.

2. University of Hong Kong (HKU) Faculty of Dentistry – Hong Kong

The University of Hong Kong Faculty of Dentistry is Asia’s top-ranked dental school and one of the world’s most internationally recognized institutions.
Known for its cutting-edge research and teaching excellence, HKU trains global leaders in oral health, periodontology, and prosthodontics. The program attracts students from over 30 countries and offers unparalleled exposure to both Eastern and Western dental care methodologies.

3. Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA) – Netherlands

ACTA, a collaboration between the University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, is Europe’s premier dental institution.
The school ranks among the top three globally for oral health research. Students gain comprehensive training across oral pathology, dental biomaterials, and preventive dentistry. ACTA’s modern facilities, research output, and high employment rates make it one of the world’s most respected dental schools.

4. King’s College London Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences – United Kingdom

King’s College London has one of Europe’s largest and most dynamic dental faculties. Its research spans craniofacial biology, regenerative dentistry, and public oral health.
Students train across major London hospitals, including Guy’s and St Thomas’, gaining early and extensive patient experience. King’s international partnerships and world-class research facilities solidify its place among the global top five.

5. Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) – Japan

TMDU is Japan’s leading dental university and consistently ranks among the top five globally.
Its curriculum emphasizes advanced technology—nanodentistry, robotics-assisted procedures, and regenerative oral sciences. TMDU also leads pioneering research in oral oncology and maxillofacial surgery, attracting dental scholars from across Asia and beyond.

6. University of Bern Faculty of Medicine – Switzerland

The University of Bern ranks high among European dental research institutions. Its dental program is internationally known for its expertise in prosthodontics, implantology, and oral surgery.
Bern’s clinical centers integrate precision-based digital dentistry and offer students exposure to the latest developments in dental materials and implant research.

7. Karolinska Institutet Department of Dental Medicine – Sweden

Karolinska Institutet, home of the Nobel Prize Assembly, extends its medical excellence into oral health sciences.
The Department of Dental Medicine focuses on oral-systemic health, combining medicine and dentistry in a holistic research model. Students benefit from advanced research infrastructure and collaboration across biomedical fields.

8. University of Zurich Center of Dental Medicine – Switzerland

The University of Zurich is a major European hub for digital dentistry and oral rehabilitation research.
Its Center of Dental Medicine emphasizes evidence-based training, restorative dentistry, and innovation in dental materials. The Zurich program also benefits from Switzerland’s long-standing reputation for clinical precision and patient safety.

9. University of Gothenburg Faculty of Odontology – Sweden

Gothenburg’s Faculty of Odontology is one of Europe’s oldest dental institutions and a leader in preventive and community dentistry.
Its research in periodontology and caries prevention has shaped global dental guidelines. Gothenburg remains a top choice for students interested in clinical excellence and public dental health policy.

10. Harvard University School of Dental Medicine – United States

Harvard’s School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) bridges dentistry and medicine through a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum.
Founded in 1867, it partners closely with Harvard Medical School and Boston’s leading hospitals. Students receive world-class training in biomedical research, oral surgery, and population health. Harvard’s program produces many of the world’s top dental researchers and educators.

Summary Table

RankSchoolCountryKnown For1University of MichiganUSAGlobal leader in dental research and education2University of Hong KongHong KongAsia’s #1 dental school3ACTA AmsterdamNetherlandsEurope’s most research-intensive dental center4King’s College LondonUKTop UK program with advanced clinical exposure5Tokyo Medical and Dental UniversityJapanCutting-edge dental technology and robotics6University of BernSwitzerlandExcellence in implantology and prosthodontics7Karolinska InstitutetSwedenLeading oral-systemic health research8University of ZurichSwitzerlandDigital and restorative dentistry innovation9University of GothenburgSwedenPreventive and public oral health leadership10Harvard UniversityUSAInterdisciplinary medical-dental education

Why These Schools Stand Out

The world’s best dental schools share three qualities: research leadership, advanced technology, and a global outlook. Whether in Ann Arbor or Tokyo, these universities define the future of oral health by combining patient-centered care with innovation in digital dentistry, regenerative medicine, and implant science.

Students who attend these programs gain not only top-tier academic credentials but also access to elite professional networks, research fellowships, and clinical experience across continents.

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