Jonathan BensonIf you dream of a career in dentistry, Augusta, Georgia is home to some of the best dental education programs in the Southeast. From earning a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree to training as a dental assistant or hygienist, the area offers diverse opportunities for aspiring dental professionals.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top 10 dental schools and programs in Augusta, GA, including tuition, fees, program highlights, and why each one could be the perfect fit for your dental career.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Augusta GA And Fees
1. Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University — D.M.D. Program
The Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University is the crown jewel of dental education in Georgia. Their D.M.D. program is fully accredited and combines academic rigor with extensive clinical experience.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 4 years
- Degree: D.M.D.
- Clinical experience starts early in the second year
Tuition & Fees (Approx. Annual):
- In-State Tuition: ~$26,344
- Out-of-State Tuition: ~$64,778
- Total Estimated First-Year Cost (with fees): ~$36,991 in-state / ~$75,425 out-of-state
Why It’s Great:
This program is perfect for Georgia residents seeking a cost-effective route to becoming a dentist. Early clinical experience ensures graduates are confident and practice-ready.
2. Dental Hygiene Program — Augusta University
Dental hygiene plays a critical role in patient care and preventive dentistry. Augusta University offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene through a 2+2 program structure.
Program Highlights:
- Degree: B.S. in Dental Hygiene
- Structure: Two years of prerequisites elsewhere, two years at Augusta University
- Hands-on clinical and classroom training
Why It’s Great:
This program prepares students to work directly with patients and promotes preventive oral health strategies, offering a rewarding and in-demand career path.
3. Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) — Augusta University
The AEGD program is a postdoctoral clinical program designed to strengthen a dentist’s skills in general practice.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 1 year
- Focus areas: Complex restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, implants, sedation
- Ideal for new dental graduates seeking confidence before independent practice
Why It’s Great:
Enhances clinical expertise and prepares dentists for diverse practice settings or advanced residencies.
4. Advanced Education in Pediatric Dentistry — Augusta University
This specialty program trains dentists to work with children and patients with special needs.Augusta University’s Advanced Education in Pediatric Dentistry program trains dentists to specialize in treating children and patients with special needs. This postgraduate program combines clinical training with research and didactic courses, preparing dentists for certification and careers in academia, research, or private practice.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 24 months
- Certificate program with extensive clinical exposure
Why It’s Great:
Perfect for dentists wanting to specialize in pediatric care while gaining hands-on patient experience under expert supervision.
5. Dental Assistant Certificate — Augusta Dental Assistant School
Augusta Dental Assistant School’s Dental Assistant Certificate program offers fast-track training for dental support roles. Students gain hands-on skills in chairside assisting, radiography, and lab procedures, preparing for entry-level positions in dental offices and clinics. The program is designed for quick career entry.
Program Highlights:
- Certificate program
- Hands-on practical training in dental offices
Tuition & Fees:
- ~$3,250 full program
- Payment plans available
Why It’s Great:
Quick, affordable, and a solid entry point into the dental workforce.
6. Dental Assisting Program — Augusta Technical College
Augusta Technical College offers a comprehensive dental assisting program combining classroom learning with clinical practice.
Program Highlights:
- Certificate program
- Clinical experience in dental offices
Tuition & Fees:
- Estimated total cost: ~$7,225.75
Why It’s Great:
Prepares students for immediate employment as dental assistants while building foundational dental knowledge.
7. Pre-Dentistry Associate Programs — Local Colleges
Associate programs in pre-dentistry help students prepare academically for dental school and the Dental Admission Test (DAT).
Program Highlights:
- Typically 2-year associate degrees
- Focus on science prerequisites and dental fundamentals
Tuition & Fees:
- ~$4,000–$8,000 per year for in-state students
Why It’s Great:
Provides strong preparation for admission to dental schools, including Augusta University.
8. Dental Hygienist & Assistant Programs in Nearby Georgia Colleges
Other colleges in Georgia, including Georgia Highlands College, Central Georgia Technical College, and Savannah Technical College, offer accredited programs for dental hygienists and assistants.
Tuition & Fees:
- ~$2,000–$5,000 per year for in-state students
Why It’s Great:
Affordable and accessible options for students who want to pursue dental support roles without relocating far.
9. Out-of-State Dental Schools — Southeast U.S.
For students willing to travel, nearby states have excellent dental schools:
- University of North Carolina School of Dentistry
- East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine
- Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine
Tuition & Fees:
- $30,000–$80,000+ per year depending on residency status
Why They’re Great:
High-quality programs within driving or short flight distance from Augusta.
10. Specialty & Residency Programs in Oral Health
For dentists seeking further expertise, specialty programs in orthodontics, oral & maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, and periodontics provide advanced training.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 1–3 years
- Certificate or M.S. degree options
Why They’re Great:
Allows dentists to gain advanced skills, leadership, and specialized credentials in their field.
Comparison Table: Top Dental Schools & Programs (Augusta GA & Nearby)
| School / Program | Location | Degree / Certificate | Est. Tuition & Fees | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University | Augusta, GA | D.M.D. | $26,344 in‑state / $64,778 out‑of‑state | 4 yrs |
| Dental Hygiene — Augusta University | Augusta, GA | B.S. Dental Hygiene | Varies by undergraduate rate | 4 yrs (2+2) |
| AEGD — Advanced Education General Dentistry | Augusta, GA | Certificate | Often stipend / minimal tuition | 1 yr |
| Pediatric Dentistry Residency | Augusta, GA | Certificate | Often stipend | 2 yrs |
| Dental Assistant — Augusta Dental Assistant School | Augusta, GA | Certificate | ~$3,250 | <1 yr |
| Dental Assisting — Augusta Technical College | Augusta, GA | Certificate | ~$7,225 | ~1 yr |
| Pre-Dentistry Associate Programs | Georgia | Assoc. degree | ~$4,000–$8,000/yr | 2–3 yrs |
| Out-of-State Dental Schools (e.g., UNC, ECU) | Southeast US | D.D.S./D.M.D. | ~$30,000–$80,000/yr | 4 yrs |
| Specialty Residencies (Ortho, Endo) | Various | Certificate / M.S. | Varies | 1–3 yrs+ |
| Other Dental Hygienist Programs (e.g., Georgia Highlands) | Georgia | Assoc. / Cert | Varies | 2–3 yrs |
Note: Tuition and fees are approximate; always check official school websites for the latest information.
Why Augusta, GA Is a Great Place for Dental Education
Augusta is not only home to the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University, a prestigious dental school, but it also offers a range of programs for dental assistants, hygienists, and specialty practitioners. Whether you’re seeking a full D.M.D. program or shorter, focused certificates, Augusta provides affordable and reputable options.
With strong clinical experience, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated faculty, students in Augusta can receive hands-on training and real-world exposure to dentistry.
Conclusion
While Augusta, GA has only one D.M.D. program, it offers a wide range of complementary programs for dental assistants, hygienists, and specialty dentists. From affordable certificates to world-class doctorates, there are options to fit every career goal and budget.
Aspiring dentists and dental professionals should research each program, consider costs, residency options, and clinical opportunities, and reach out to admissions offices for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
Augusta truly stands out as a hub for dental education in the Southeast, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to launch a career in dentistry.