Jonathan BensonMontana is a beautiful state, but when it comes to dental education, it has a unique challenge: there is no in-state dental school offering DDS or DMD degrees. However, aspiring dental professionals still have options. From dental assisting programs, dental hygiene programs, and pre-dentistry tracks, to out-of-state dental school opportunities via exchange programs, Montana students can pursue a dental career with careful planning.
In this article, we explore the top 10 dental-related programs and pathways available to Montana students, including tuition, program details, and career outcomes.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Montana And Fees
1. Salish Kootenai College — Dental Assisting Program
The Salish Kootenai College Dental Assisting Program is one of Montana’s most recognized programs for students wanting hands-on dental careers. This program teaches chairside assisting, radiography, sterilization, and office management, providing students with practical clinical experience.
Program Details:
- Type: Certificate / Diploma
- Annual In-State Tuition: ~$4,311 (not including supplies)
- Duration: Approximately 3 semesters
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Career Outcome: Prepares students for entry-level dental assistant roles and externship completion
Best For: Students who want to start working in dental support roles quickly.
Key Highlights:
- Hands-on experience in real dental settings
- Prepares for DANB certification
- Affordable in-state tuition
2. Great Falls College Montana State University — Dental Assisting
Great Falls College MSU offers a hybrid dental assisting program combining classroom instruction and clinical experience. Students learn radiography, patient care, sterilization protocols, and front-office procedures, giving a comprehensive foundation for dental assisting careers.
Program Details:
- Type: Certificate / Diploma
- Annual In-State Tuition: ~$3,904
- Duration: ~3 semesters
- Career Path: Entry-level dental assistant, with potential for DANB certification
Best For: Students seeking one of Montana’s most affordable dental assisting programs.
Key Highlights:
- Affordable tuition for in-state students
- Access to clinical rotations and hands-on training
- Prepares students for immediate employment
3. Montana Tech — Pre-Dentistry Focus Area
Montana Tech does not offer a dental degree, but its pre-dentistry focus area provides essential science courses such as biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. These courses form the foundation for admission to dental schools out-of-state.
Program Details:
- Type: Academic program
- Tuition: Varies by credit load
- Outcome: Prepares students for dental school prerequisites and Dental Admission Test (DAT)
Best For: Students who want to build a strong academic foundation for dental school.
Key Highlights:
- Focus on rigorous science courses
- Advising for dental school applications
- Preparation for DAT testing
4. Montana State University — Dental Hygiene & Health Pathways
While Montana State University doesn’t have a dental school, it offers health sciences and related coursework that supports dental careers, including dental hygiene. Students gain knowledge in public health, patient care, and lab skills.
Program Details:
- Type: Degree / Pre-professional coursework
- Tuition: ~$3,149 per semester (resident)
- Outcome: Prepares for dental hygiene careers or further pre-dentistry education
Best For: Students aiming for dental hygiene roles or planning to continue to dental school.
Key Highlights:
- Strong health sciences foundation
- Access to clinical labs and health programs
- Affordable in-state tuition
5. University of Montana — Pre-Dentistry Advising
The University of Montana provides pre-dentistry advising and coursework to prepare students for dental school. Courses include biology, chemistry, anatomy, and other sciences required by dental programs.
Program Details:
- Type: Academic coursework with pre-dental advising
- Tuition: Standard undergraduate rates
- Outcome: Prepares students for dental school applications and prerequisite completion
Best For: Students who want guided pre-dental pathways with strong academic advising.
Key Highlights:
- Personalized academic and career advising
- Comprehensive science curriculum
- Prepares students for out-of-state dental school applications
6. Minnesota Dental Program (PSEP) — Out-of-State Dental School Opportunity
Through the Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP), Montana students can attend the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry at reduced tuition. This is the primary pathway for Montanans to earn a DDS/DMD degree.
Program Details:
- Type: Dental School (DDS)
- Tuition: Reduced from non-resident rates
- Duration: 4 years
- Outcome: DDS degree and dental licensure eligibility
Best For: Montana residents aiming for a full dental degree without paying full out-of-state tuition.
Key Highlights:
- Competitive program with limited spots
- Affordable route to dental school
- Comprehensive DDS curriculum
7. Short-Term Dental Assistant Certifications
Montana also has short-term certificate programs for dental assistants, often lasting 90 days. These programs teach basic dental procedures, patient care, and office support skills.
Program Details:
- Type: Certificate
- Tuition: $500–$3,000 depending on provider
- Outcome: Ready for entry-level dental assistant roles
Best For: Students seeking fast-track certification for immediate employment.
Key Highlights:
- Rapid completion
- Affordable
- Provides basic dental assisting skills
8. Western University of Health Sciences — Out-of-State DMD Program
Some Montana students attend WesternU DMD programs and return to Montana to practice. Tuition is higher but provides a full dental degree.
Program Details:
- Type: Dental School (DMD)
- Tuition: ~$93,437/year
- Duration: 4 years
- Outcome: Licensed DMD dentist
Best For: Students seeking a traditional dental school experience outside Montana.
Key Highlights:
- Fully accredited dental program
- Access to clinical experience
- Prepares for dental licensure
9. Dental Hygiene & Allied Health Programs
Community colleges in Montana offer dental hygiene and allied health programs, including associate degrees and certificates. These programs train hygienists, dental radiography technicians, and support staff.
Program Details:
- Type: Associate Degree / Certificate
- Tuition: Varies by institution
- Outcome: Hygienist, dental technician, or assistant
Best For: Students aiming for specialized dental careers without a DDS/DMD degree.
Key Highlights:
- Hands-on hygiene training
- Career-oriented programs
- Affordable tuition options
10. Community College Health & Dental Tracks
Several Montana community colleges provide health sciences courses relevant to dental careers, including patient care, biology, and health fundamentals. These programs serve as stepping stones to dental assisting, hygiene, or pre-dentistry tracks.
Program Details:
- Type: Degree / Certificate
- Tuition: Varies by college
- Outcome: Dental support roles, preparation for further dental education
Best For: Students seeking foundational skills before moving to advanced dental programs.
Key Highlights:
- Affordable and flexible
- Builds academic and technical foundation
- Good for career exploration
Comparison Table of Dental Programs in Montana
| Program / Pathway | Type | Tuition Estimate | Outcome / Career Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salish Kootenai College Dental Assisting | Certificate | ~$4,311/yr | Dental Assistant |
| Great Falls College MSU Dental Assisting | Certificate | ~$3,904/yr | Dental Assistant |
| Montana Tech Pre-Dentistry | Academic | Varies | Pre-Dentistry |
| Montana State University Health Sciences | Degree Coursework | ~$3,149/semester | Dental Hygiene / Pre-Dentistry |
| University of Montana Pre-Dentistry | Academic | Varies | Pre-Dentistry |
| Minnesota Dental Program (PSEP) | Dental School (DDS) | Reduced | DDS / Dental Degree |
| Short-Term Dental Assistant Certifications | Certificate | $500–$3,000 | Dental Assistant |
| WesternU DMD Program | Dental School (DMD) | ~$93,437/year | Licensed DMD Dentist |
| Dental Hygiene & Allied Health Programs | Associate / Certificate | Varies | Hygienist |
| Community College Health & Dental Tracks | Degree / Certificate | Varies | Dental Support Roles |
Conclusion
Although Montana lacks an in-state dental school offering DDS/DMD degrees, students have multiple pathways to pursue dental careers. For those seeking dental assisting or hygiene roles, in-state certificate programs are cost-effective and hands-on. Pre-dentistry students can strengthen their academic foundation at Montana Tech or the University of Montana before applying to out-of-state dental schools via PSEP or traditional admissions.
Ultimately, choosing the right path depends on your career goals — whether it’s becoming a dental assistant, hygienist, or fully licensed dentist. By planning ahead, Montana students can successfully navigate these educational opportunities and build a rewarding career in dentistry.