Jonathan BensonIf you want to build a career in dentistry in Alabama — whether as a dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, or pre-dentistry student — choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you will make. Alabama has one accredited dental school alongside several respected dental hygiene programs, assisting schools, and strong pre-dentistry pathways that prepare students for professional dental degrees.
This detailed guide explores the top 15 dental schools and dental-related programs in Alabama, including tuition estimates, program highlights, and what makes each institution stand out. Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to upgrade your credentials, this comprehensive list will help you compare options and make a confident decision.
Top 15 Dental Schools In Alabama And Fees
1. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Dentistry
The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry is the only accredited dental school in Alabama offering a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. It is widely recognized for strong clinical training, research opportunities, and access to one of the largest dental clinics in the Southeast.
Students receive extensive hands-on experience treating patients from diverse backgrounds, preparing them for general practice or specialty residencies.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Alabama residents: about $33,000–$35,000 per year
- Non-residents: about $75,000–$80,000 per year
UAB remains the top choice for aspiring dentists within the state because of its reputation, advanced facilities, and high graduate success rate.
2. Wallace State Community College – Dental Hygiene Program
Wallace State Community College is one of Alabama’s most respected institutions for dental hygiene education. The program combines classroom learning with clinical practice to prepare students for licensure exams and real-world patient care.
Graduates often find employment quickly due to strong employer partnerships and clinical training.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Around $7,000–$9,000 annually for in-state students
This school is ideal for those seeking a stable, high-demand dental hygiene career with affordable tuition.
3. John C. Calhoun State Community College – Dental Support Programs
Calhoun State offers dental assisting and dental support training that helps students develop clinical and administrative skills required in dental offices. Programs are designed to be accessible and workforce-focused.
Students gain knowledge in chairside assisting, dental radiography, infection control, and patient communication.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Approximately $5,500–$8,000 per year depending on residency and aid
It is a great option for students who want a cost-effective entry into dentistry.
4. Coastal Alabama Community College – Dental Assisting Training
Coastal Alabama Community College provides strong dental assisting education with hands-on learning opportunities. The program prepares students for certification exams and real clinical environments.
Graduates learn essential skills such as dental instrument handling, sterilization procedures, and patient care coordination.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Around $8,000–$10,000 annually for in-state students
The college is known for practical training and strong regional employment connections.
5. H. Councill Trenholm State Community College – Dental Assisting Program
Located in Montgomery, Trenholm State Community College offers dental assisting courses designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in dental practices. Programs emphasize both technical and professional skills.
Students learn dental office procedures, patient preparation, and clinical assistance techniques.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Generally ranges from $6,000–$8,500 annually depending on program length
Trenholm State provides accessible training with strong local healthcare partnerships.
6. Lawson State Community College – Dental Assisting and Support
Lawson State Community College offers dental assisting programs focused on hands-on clinical experience. Students learn practical skills while preparing for certification and employment.
The curriculum includes infection control, radiography basics, and dental office administration.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Around $6,000–$9,000 per year for most students
Lawson State is known for workforce readiness and supportive learning environments.
7. Fortis College (Mobile) – Dental Assisting Program
Fortis College provides career-focused dental assisting training designed to help students enter the workforce quickly. The program blends classroom instruction with lab and clinical experience.
Students gain real-world skills in chairside assisting, dental imaging, and patient interaction.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Approximately $15,000–$20,000 total program cost (private institution)
Fortis is a good option for students seeking accelerated training with flexible schedules.
8. Ross Medical Education Center (Huntsville) – Dental Assisting
Ross Medical Education Center offers short-term dental assisting training that focuses on hands-on skills and workplace readiness. Programs are structured for students who want to start working quickly.
Graduates often secure entry-level roles soon after completion.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- About $14,000–$18,000 depending on program length
Ross Medical is ideal for those seeking fast career entry without a long academic commitment.
9. University of Alabama – Predentistry Track
The University of Alabama offers strong undergraduate programs with pre-dentistry advising to help students prepare for dental school admissions. Coursework typically includes biology, chemistry, and health sciences.
Students receive guidance on DAT preparation, shadowing opportunities, and dental school applications.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Around $11,000 annually for in-state students
- About $32,000 for out-of-state students
This is a solid foundation for students planning to apply to dental schools such as UAB.
10. Auburn University – Predental Preparation
Auburn University provides excellent science programs aligned with dental school prerequisites. Students can pursue biology or biomedical science degrees while receiving pre-dent advising.
Strong academic reputation and research opportunities help graduates remain competitive applicants.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- In-state tuition roughly $12,000–$13,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition around $33,000 annually
Auburn is a strong option for students wanting a top-tier undergraduate education before dental school.
11. University of South Alabama – Predental Studies
The University of South Alabama offers pre-dentistry pathways through its science and health programs. Students benefit from academic advising and clinical exposure opportunities.
The institution’s health science focus helps students build a strong academic and professional profile.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Approximately $8,500–$10,000 annually for in-state students
It’s a strong choice for students interested in healthcare careers in addition to dentistry.
12. Wallace State Community College – Additional Dental Hygiene Training
Beyond its primary hygiene program, Wallace State also offers expanded dental health coursework that enhances clinical skills and career advancement opportunities.
Students develop patient assessment abilities and preventive care techniques.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Roughly $7,000–$9,000 per year
This program strengthens Wallace State’s position as a leading dental training center in Alabama.
13. Central Alabama Community College – Allied Dental Support
Central Alabama Community College provides allied health and dental support courses that prepare students for assisting programs or further education.
The college focuses on foundational skills, professionalism, and healthcare safety.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Around $5,000–$7,000 annually for in-state students
It is an accessible starting point for individuals exploring dental careers.
14. Bishop State Community College – Allied Health & Predental Coursework
Bishop State Community College offers science courses and allied health training that serve as stepping stones into dental hygiene or assisting programs.
Students benefit from small class sizes and individualized support.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Approximately $5,500–$7,500 annually
Bishop State is a solid option for those beginning their journey toward dentistry.
15. Alabama Board of Dental Examiners – Dental Hygiene Training Pathway
This state-supported training pathway provides accelerated dental hygiene education for individuals with prior dental assisting experience. Training is typically conducted in partnership with clinical facilities.
Students gain licensure preparation and hands-on experience.
Estimated Tuition & Fees
- Historically very low — sometimes under $1,000 for certain training components
This is one of the most affordable routes for experienced dental assistants seeking advancement.
Conclusion
Alabama provides multiple pathways into dentistry depending on your career goals. If your dream is to become a licensed dentist, the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry remains the premier option. For those interested in becoming dental hygienists or assistants, community colleges such as Wallace State, Calhoun State, and Coastal Alabama provide excellent training at affordable costs.
Meanwhile, universities like Auburn, University of Alabama, and University of South Alabama offer strong pre-dentistry programs that help students transition into professional dental schools.
Before choosing a school, consider your budget, career goals, and the type of training you want — whether that is a doctoral degree, hygiene certification, assisting diploma, or pre-dent undergraduate education.
With the right training and dedication, Alabama’s dental education system can provide a solid foundation for a rewarding and stable career in oral healthcare