12 April 2025
6 minutes read
Top 10 Dental Universities in USA: Ranking Best Dental Schools in the US

Key Takeaways
- The top 10 dental universities in USA offer world-class dental education, research opportunities, and advanced clinical training.
- According to QS World Rankings, the top 10 dental universities in USA are globally recognized for their excellence in dentistry.
- Students choosing from the top 10 dental universities in USA gain access to the best faculty, dental technology, and career prospects.
Selecting the proper dental school is a game-saver for dental students. America is renowned all over the world for possessing some of the best dental schools in the nation, supported by world-class dental education and unmatched clinical training. If you wish to pursue dentistry at one of the top dental schools in America, this guide based on the QS World University Rankings for Dentistry 2025 is what you need.
Why Choose the Best Dental Schools in the US?
In the United States, dentistry has long been a highly regarded career. Students of dentistry enjoy rigorous dental education, high-tech dental care facilities, and an integrated approach to oral wellness. American dental colleges are accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA), guaranteeing international standards.

Students who want a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree undergo world-class training in fields such as pediatric dentistry and dental surgery. Dental schools in the US are arguably the best schools to study dentistry in the world because of their international stature and innovative education programs.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the American Dental Association has been around since 1859? Today it is still the governing body of dentistry education in the USA.
QS World University Rankings for Dentistry 2025 for Choosing a Dental School
The QS World University Rankings by Subject evaluate universities on metrics such as academic reputation, employer reputation, research output, and international reach. Such rankings enable dentistry students to determine the best dental schools to achieve their aspirations.
Top 10 Dental Schools in the United States (2025 Rankings)
USA dental schools remain at the forefront in oral health education, with thousands of prospective dental school graduates enrolling annually. Elite institutions such as the Harvard Dental Center, UCSF School of Dentistry, and Penn Dental Medicine provide top-notch dentistry programs that aim to develop future professional in the industry. Based on the American Dental Association, these institutions stand consistently among the top in the world, again evidenced by their stellar positions in the university rankings by subject 2023.
Below is the ranking of the best 10 dental schools in America based on QS World University Rankings for Dentistry 2025:
Rank | University | Location | Notable Dental Program |
---|---|---|---|
1 | University of Michigan – School of Dentistry | Ann Arbor, Michigan | Doctor of Dental Surgery, Dental Hygiene |
2 | Harvard School of Dental Medicine | Boston, Massachusetts | Doctor of Dental Medicine, Advanced Graduate Education |
3 | University of California, San Francisco – School of Dentistry | San Francisco, California | Doctor of Dental Surgery, Dental Public Health |
4 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Adams School of Dentistry | Chapel Hill, North Carolina | Doctor of Dental Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry |
5 | University of California, Los Angeles – School of Dentistry | Los Angeles, California | Doctor of Dental Surgery, Community Oral Health |
6 | University of Washington – School of Dentistry | Seattle, Washington | Doctor of Dental Surgery, Dental Public Health |
7 | New York University – College of Dentistry | New York, New York | Doctor of Dental Surgery, Orthodontics |
8 | University of Pennsylvania – School of Dental Medicine | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Doctor of Dental Medicine, Oral Surgery |
9 | University of Iowa – College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics | Iowa City, Iowa | Doctor of Dental Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry |
10 | Boston University – Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine | Boston, Massachusetts | Doctor of Dental Medicine, Dental Implantology |
Why These Accredited Dental Schools Lead the Rankings from 2023 to 2025?
As per the American Dental Education Association, if you wish to know the best universities for dental education, it’s important to learn why these are the best universities — particularly the dentistry schools in the United States such as the Los Angeles School of Dentistry, which have been top-ranked in the QS World University Rankings 2024 for Dentistry at the University level, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

Here is the list of top-ranked universities in the group:
1. University of Michigan – School of Dentistry
The University of Michigan ranks as the best dental school in the USA for 2025. Their school of dentistry offers exceptional programs in dental hygiene and Doctor of Dental Surgery. With a strong research focus and extensive dental center facilities, this university stands out.
2. Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Harvard Dental is one of the most iconic names in the world of dentistry. Its dental program focuses on integrating medicine and oral health for comprehensive patient care.
3. University of California, San Francisco – School of Dentistry
Often cited as one of the best dental schools in the United States, UCSF offers robust programs in dental surgery and public health.
4. University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina’s Adams School of Dentistry is renowned for producing some of the most skilled professionals in the dental field. This school’s dental programs include the Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) and advanced studies in dental medicine or oral medicine. As one of the oldest university-affiliated dental schools, UNC also offers a respected dental residency program, making it a top choice for students looking to excel in the world for dentistry.
5. University of Iowa
The University of Iowa’s Iowa College of Dentistry is widely recognized for its dental school based approach to clinical practice and research. Collaborating closely with the Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, this institution provides comprehensive education leading to the Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. It is also one of the oldest university-affiliated dental schools in the country, offering a top-rated dental residency program that prepares students for specialized practice in dental medicine or oral medicine.
What are the Factors That Set Admission to Dental Schools Apart?
Getting into a top dental school in the world requires more than just good grades — earning a degree from a dental school opens doors to some of the most rewarding jobs in the next 10 years, while also offering unmatched exposure for dentistry students.

After all, every school of dentistry is one that shapes future professionals, and dental medicine is one of the most competitive fields when it comes to making it to the list of the best dental institutions globally.
- Affiliation with the American Dental Association
- Advanced dental center infrastructure
- Strong emphasis on pediatric dentistry and dental surgery
- Diverse research opportunities in dental care
- International student-friendly dental programs
Other Renowned Dental Schools in the USA
When it comes to choosing one of the top dental institutions, the ADEA Associated American Dental Schools Application Service is the first step for many students looking to enroll in one of the largest dental programs in the United States, as dental school programs today focus extensively on both dental and oral health — and with the latest dental school rankings in mind, every leading school of dentistry provides specialized training, making our top suggestions according to the largest dental schools and dental school provides insights into the best dental schools in the U.S.
While the top 10 schools are highly sought after, many other dental schools in the US offer excellent dental education:
- Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
- University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
- University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Conclusion
Dental schools in the USA consistently rank among the best in the world. Whether it’s the University of Michigan’s comprehensive dental program, Harvard School of Dental Medicine’s legacy, or the innovative environment at the University of California, these institutions offer unparalleled opportunities for dentistry students. From obtaining a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree to specializing in pediatric dentistry or dental surgery, the United States remains one of the best places to study dentistry.
For those dreaming of a rewarding career in dentistry, selecting a dental school from the QS World University Rankings for Dentistry 2023 to 2025 ensures world-class dental education and a bright future.
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FAQs
What are the top 10 dental universities in USA according to QS Rankings 2025?
The top 10 dental universities in USA according to QS Rankings 2025 include University of Michigan, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, and University of California, among other prestigious institutions.
Why should students choose from the top 10 dental universities in USA?
Students should choose from the top 10 dental universities in USA because these schools provide world-class dental education, global recognition, and exceptional clinical experience.
How do the top 10 dental universities in USA help in building a dental career?
The top 10 dental universities in USA help students build a successful dental career through advanced dental programs, research opportunities, and partnerships with leading dental organizations.
Are scholarships available at the top 10 dental universities in USA?
Yes, many of the top 10 dental universities in USA offer scholarships and financial aid to deserving students pursuing degrees in dentistry and dental surgery.
What dental programs do the top 10 dental universities in USA offer?
The top 10 dental universities in USA offer a wide range of dental programs, including Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD), and specialties like pediatric dentistry.
Can international students apply to the top 10 dental universities in USA?
Yes, international students can apply to the top 10 dental universities in USA, provided they meet admission requirements and follow the application process for dental schools in the US.
How are the top 10 dental universities in USA ranked every year?
The top 10 dental universities in USA are ranked every year based on academic reputation, research output, employer perception, and the QS World University Rankings criteria.

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