Dentistry Courses in the USA

Learn more about studying dentistry in the USA

Dentistry courses in the USA generally last four years and are demanding both academically and technically. Dentistry students will study the cause, prevention, management, and treatment of oral and dental disease.

After graduation, graduates can enter general dentistry or pursue speciality dental programs, which require residencies lasting one to six years, depending on the speciality chosen. Dentistry is prominent in the USA, with lucrative job opportunities and an important role in maintaining oral health.

Dentistry in the USA presents an enticing opportunity for international students. The country boasts over ten dental schools ranked among the top 50 globally, ensuring a world-class education. Graduates can anticipate substantial annual salaries ranging from USD 131,000 to USD 242,000, underscoring the financial rewards of the profession. The demand for dentists is projected to increase by 6% from 2021 to 2031, offering ample job openings. Additionally, the low unemployment rate in the USA, coupled with dentistry's high rankings in various job categories, underscores the country's suitability for dental studies. 

Types of Dentistry Degrees 

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

A Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree is a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students to become licensed dentists in the United States. Students participate in intensive academic study and practical instruction during this four-year program. They cover topics like oral anatomy, dentistry treatments, and patient care. Hands-on clinical practice is an important component of the program, allowing students to work on real dental patients under supervision.

• Course Duration: Typically 4 years.
• Course Fees: Approximately $100,000 to $300,000.
• Entry Requirements: A bachelor's degree and completion of prerequisite coursework in sciences are usually necessary for admission.

Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD)

A Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree is a professional doctoral program that provides students with the education and training necessary to succeed in the field of dentistry. During their DMD studies, students complete a comprehensive program that includes in-depth scientific and clinical education. They learn about dental anatomy, oral illnesses, diagnostic techniques, and treatment procedures. DMD programs often offer research opportunities, allowing students to learn about new dental treatments and developments in oral healthcare. This research component helps to improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Course Duration: 4 years
• Course Fees: $30,000 to $70,000 per year
• Entry Requirements: Bachelor's degree, prerequisite coursework, Dental Admissions Test (DAT) or equivalent exam, letters of recommendation

Scholarships

• ADA Foundation Scholarships: Offered by the American Dental Association, these scholarships support dental students based on financial need, leadership qualities, and academic excellence.
• National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program: This program covers full tuition and fees and provides a monthly stipend in exchange for a commitment to work in underserved areas after graduation.
• Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP): Available through the U.S. Armed Forces, this program offers financial support in exchange for military service as a dentist.
• ADEA/Crest Oral-B Scholarships: The American Dental Education Association and Crest Oral-B provide these scholarships to support dental students pursuing academic careers.
• Dental Trade Alliance Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships aim to promote careers in the dental industry by providing financial assistance to dental students.
• State and University Scholarships: Many states and universities offer scholarships specifically for in-state or resident dental students.
• Private and Corporate Scholarships: Numerous private organizations and dental companies also provide scholarships for dental students, often based on specific criteria or demographics.

Dentistry Jobs and Careers

Dentists can choose to work in general practice, where they will treat patients' oral health problems and provide preventive treatment. Specializations in subjects such as orthodontics, oral surgery, and pediatric dentistry allow for more focused practice. Dental hygienists assist dentists by cleaning teeth and teaching patients about proper oral hygiene. Dental assistants help with clinical procedures and office management. Dental laboratory technicians create dental prosthetics. Academic professions such as dentistry educators and researchers are also viable options. With an increasing demand for oral healthcare, dentistry provides steady and well-paying career opportunities, offering a rewarding and productive professional journey.

Salary

Salaries in the area of dentistry are notably high, reflecting the years of rigorous study and the specific skills necessary. General dentists in the United States typically earn an annual salary ranging from $131,000 to $242,000, varying according to experience, geography, and practice type. Specialists such as oral surgeons, orthodontists, and periodontists frequently command greater salaries, sometimes exceeding $200,000 annually. Furthermore, job security and expanding demand for dentists contribute to their financial attraction. Dentistry is an appealing and satisfying career choice for many ambitious healthcare professionals due to the possibility of financial success and the opportunity to influence patients' lives.

Where can I study Dentistry in the USA?

To learn more about the best dentistry colleges in the USA, find details on the top ten ranking Dentistry universities in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 below:

1. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
2. University of California San Francisco
3. Harvard University
4. University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
5. University of California San Francisco
6. University of Pennsylvania
7. University of California Los Angeles
8. New York University
9. University of Washington
10. The Ohio State University

Dentistry FAQ

How much does it cost to study dentistry in the USA?

The cost of studying dentistry in the USA varies widely, ranging from approximately $30,000 to $70,000 per year in tuition fees, totalling around $120,000 to $280,000 for the entire program.

How many years does it take to become a dentist in the USA?

In the USA, becoming a dentist takes about four years, and graduates receive either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree.

What is the scope of a master’s in dentistry in the USA?

A Master's in Dentistry in the USA offers advanced training and specialization opportunities, enhancing career prospects. It can lead to roles in academia, research, or specialized clinical practice.

Which is the best dental university in the USA?

Some top dental schools include Harvard University, the University of Michigan, and the University of California, San Francisco.

What is the average salary for a dentist in the USA?

The average salary for dentists in the USA typically ranges from $131,000 to $242,000 annually, with variations based on location, experience, and specialization.