Jonathan BensonIf you’re searching for the top dental schools in Louisiana and their fees, you likely want accurate tuition estimates, program options, and career pathways. Whether your goal is to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), become a registered dental hygienist, or complete a fast-track dental assisting program, Louisiana offers multiple accredited and career-focused institutions.
This detailed guide covers the 15 best dental schools and dental programs in Louisiana, including tuition ranges, program highlights, and what makes each school stand out.
Top 15 Dental Schools In Louisiana And Fees
1. Louisiana State University School of Dentistry – DDS Program
The Louisiana State University School of Dentistry (LSUSD) in New Orleans is the only dental school in Louisiana offering a DDS degree. It is part of the LSU Health Sciences Center and serves as the state’s primary training institution for dentists and specialists.
Programs Offered:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Dental Hygiene (BS)
- Dental Laboratory Technology
- Postgraduate residencies (Orthodontics, Endodontics, Oral Surgery, etc.)
Estimated Fees:
- In-state DDS tuition: ~$28,000–$32,000 per year
- Total 4-year tuition: ~$115,000–$130,000
- Estimated total cost with instruments, fees & supplies: $200,000+
Best For: Students seeking a full professional dental doctorate in Louisiana.
2. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center – Dental Hygiene Program
LSUHSC also houses a respected Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program. This program prepares students for licensure as Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH).
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$9,000–$12,000 per year (in-state professional phase)
The program combines classroom science instruction with hands-on patient care in clinical settings.
Best For: Students who want a shorter, lower-cost alternative to DDS while still working directly with patients.
3. University of Louisiana at Monroe – Dental Hygiene (BS)
The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) offers a strong Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with high board exam pass rates.The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) offers a strong Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with high board exam pass rates, boasting a 100% pass rate on the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam (NBDHE) and the Council of Interstate Testing Agency (CITA) clinical board. This accredited program, fully recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), equips students with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on clinical experience, preparing them for successful careers as licensed dental hygienists.
Estimated Fees:
- In-state tuition: ~$8,000–$11,000 per year
- Program duration: 4 years (including prerequisites)
Students gain clinical experience through community rotations and on-campus facilities.
Best For: Students looking for a university-based hygiene degree outside New Orleans.
4. Southern University at Shreveport – Dental Hygiene (AAS)
Southern University at Shreveport offers an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene, making it one of the more affordable pathways in Louisiana.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$4,500–$6,000 per year (in-state)
The program is competitive and focuses on preventive oral care and clinical training.
Best For: Budget-conscious students wanting an associate-level hygiene degree.
5. Louisiana Dental Institute – Dental Assisting Certificate
Located in Monroe, this institute provides a 12-week dental assisting program designed for quick workforce entry.Louisiana Dental Institute’s 12-week Dental Assisting Certificate program in Monroe is designed for quick workforce entry. The program includes 96 hours of lecture and hands-on clinical training, covering topics like patient assessment, dental materials, and radiography. You’ll also get a 40-hour externship and certifications in BLS (CPR) and X-ray.
Estimated Tuition:
- $3,500–$4,000 (total program cost)
The curriculum focuses on chairside assisting, radiography, and sterilization procedures.
Best For: Individuals seeking fast entry into the dental field.
6. Delta College – Dental Assisting Programs
Delta College operates across Louisiana and offers dental assisting and allied health programs.Delta College’s dental assisting program is a 9-month course that equips students with clinical and administrative skills, including infection control, restorative dentistry, and dental radiology. With locations in Covington, Slidell, Lafayette, and Baton Rouge, Delta College offers hands-on training and boasts a 100% licensure exam pass rate and employment rate.
Estimated Tuition:
- $8,000–$15,000 depending on campus and duration
Programs are typically diploma-based and career-focused.
Best For: Students who prefer structured technical school training.
7. Blue Cliff College – Dental Assisting Diploma
Blue Cliff College provides dental assisting training at select campuses.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$12,000–$18,000 total program cost
Training includes lab simulations and externship opportunities.
Best For: Students wanting a private career college environment.
8. Baton Rouge Dental Assistant Academy
This academy offers short-term dental assisting certification.The Baton Rouge Dental Assistant Academy offers a short-term certification program, equipping students with essential skills like chairside assisting, radiology, and infection control. The program is designed for quick workforce entry, with flexible scheduling and hands-on training. Graduates are prepared for entry-level dental assistant positions in local clinics and offices.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$2,800–$3,500
Programs are typically completed within a few months.
Best For: Entry-level candidates looking for affordable certification.
9. Medical Training College – Dental Assisting
Medical Training College offers hybrid and in-person dental assistant programs.Medical Training College’s dental assistant programs offer flexible learning options, combining online theory with in-person clinical training. Students gain hands-on experience in areas like chairside assisting, radiology, and infection control. The college prepares graduates for entry-level dental assistant positions and certification exams.
Estimated Tuition:
- $2,000–$4,000
Flexible scheduling is often available for working adults.
Best For: Career changers needing flexibility.
10. Louisiana Dental Assistant School
This program provides practical in-office dental assisting experience.Louisiana Dental Assistant School provides hands-on, in-office training for aspiring dental assistants. You’ll gain practical experience in real dental settings, working alongside experienced professionals. The program focuses on chairside assisting, radiology, and office management, preparing you for a successful dental career.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$3,000–$5,000
Hands-on training is a key focus.
Best For: Students preferring real clinic-based learning.
11. Louisiana State University – Pre-Dental Track
LSU Baton Rouge offers pre-dental advising and science pathways for students intending to apply to dental school.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$9,000–$12,000 per year (in-state undergraduate)
Best For: Students preparing for DDS admission.
12. Southern University and A&M College – Pre-Dental Pathway
Southern University offers pre-health science tracks that prepare students for DDS or hygiene programs.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$8,000–$10,000 per year (in-state)
Best For: Students seeking an HBCU environment before dental school.
13. Northwestern State University – Pre-Professional Studies
Northwestern State University provides pre-dentistry academic preparation.Northwestern State University’s pre-dentistry program offers a solid foundation for future dental students. You’ll complete prerequisite courses, gain clinical experience, and prepare for dental school applications. The program’s advisors will guide you through the process, helping you build a strong application for dental school.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$7,500–$9,000 annually (in-state)
Best For: Students completing prerequisite sciences.
14. McNeese State University – Pre-Dental Program
McNeese offers science degrees aligned with dental school admission requirements.McNeese State University’s science programs are tailored to meet dental school admission requirements. With majors like biology and chemistry, you’ll complete the necessary coursework for dental school while gaining a strong foundation in sciences. McNeese’s advisors will help you prepare for dental school applications and ensure you’re on the right track.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$8,000–$10,000 per year (in-state)
Best For: Students planning to apply to LSUSD or out-of-state dental schools.
15. University of Louisiana at Lafayette – Pre-Dental Studies
ULL provides strong biology and health science programs suitable for dental school preparation.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$8,500–$11,000 per year (in-state)
Best For: Students wanting strong academic preparation before professional dental training.
Dental Schools In Louisiana – Fee Comparison Table
| School | Program Type | Estimated Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| LSU School of Dentistry | DDS | $28K–$32K/year |
| LSUHSC | Dental Hygiene | $9K–$12K/year |
| ULM | Dental Hygiene | $8K–$11K/year |
| Southern Univ. Shreveport | Dental Hygiene (AAS) | $4.5K–$6K/year |
| Louisiana Dental Institute | Dental Assisting | $3.5K–$4K total |
| Delta College | Dental Assisting | $8K–$15K total |
| Blue Cliff College | Dental Assisting | $12K–$18K total |
| Baton Rouge Assistant Academy | Dental Assisting | $2.8K–$3.5K |
| Medical Training College | Dental Assisting | $2K–$4K |
| Louisiana Dental Assistant School | Dental Assisting | $3K–$5K |
| LSU | Pre-Dental | $9K–$12K/year |
| Southern University | Pre-Dental | $8K–$10K/year |
| Northwestern State | Pre-Dental | $7.5K–$9K/year |
| McNeese State | Pre-Dental | $8K–$10K/year |
| UL Lafayette | Pre-Dental | $8.5K–$11K/year |
Conclusion
Louisiana offers diverse pathways into the dental profession — from a full DDS at LSU School of Dentistry to affordable dental assisting certificates and hygiene degrees. Your best choice depends on your career goal, timeline, and budget.
If your aim is to become a licensed dentist in Louisiana, LSU School of Dentistry remains the primary destination. For quicker and more affordable entry into the workforce, dental assisting and hygiene programs across the state provide excellent alternatives.
Before applying, confirm accreditation status, board exam eligibility, and financial aid opportunities to ensure you make the smartest investment in your dental career.