Jonathan BensonIf you’re looking to pursue a career in dentistry, dental hygiene, or dental support, Dallas, Texas, offers a wide range of programs tailored for every professional goal. From full-fledged DDS programs to fast-track dental assisting courses, this guide highlights the top 15 dental schools and programs in Dallas, their fees, and why they stand out.
Whether you are aiming to become a practicing dentist, a licensed dental hygienist, or a certified dental assistant, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Top 15 Dental Schools in Dallas
1. Texas A&M University College of Dentistry
Texas A&M College of Dentistry is one of Dallas’ premier dental schools. Its Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program is rigorous, combining pre-clinical training with extensive hands-on clinical rotations.
Fees & Cost
- Resident DDS tuition (4 years): ~$99,936
- Non-resident DDS tuition (4 years): ~$157,536
Why It’s Great
- Offers low-cost dental care to the community while providing students with real clinical experience.
- Strong emphasis on licensure preparation.
- Prestigious program with excellent alumni network.
2. El Centro College – Dental Hygiene Program
El Centro College offers an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene, preparing students for licensure and entry into dental hygiene careers.
Fees & Cost
- Average yearly net price: ~$6,881–$9,474
Why It’s Great
- Affordable and accessible for local students.
- Includes hands-on clinical experience in Dallas-area clinics.
- Focused on preparing graduates for immediate employment.
3. Dallas College – Dental Hygiene Program
Dallas College offers a comprehensive Dental Hygiene Program with a strong focus on clinical readiness.
Fees & Cost
- First-year tuition & expenses: ~$10,987 for Dallas County residents
Why It’s Great
- Offers financial aid and scholarship options.
- Graduates are prepared for both state and national licensure exams.
- Well-established program with excellent faculty support.
4. Concorde Career College – Dental Support Programs
Concorde Career College provides dental assisting and dental support programs focused on hands-on skills and career readiness.
Fees & Cost
- Estimated annual cost: ~$25,484
Why It’s Great
- Shorter program timeline allows students to enter the workforce quickly.
- Strong emphasis on practical experience.
- Career services assist with job placement after graduation.
5. Dallas Dental Assistant School
This school specializes in dental assistant training with flexible, short-term programs.
Fees & Cost
- Tuition: ~$3,950–$5,695
Why It’s Great
- Affordable and convenient for students looking to start quickly.
- Includes practical lab work and clinical exposure.
- Designed for students aiming to become chairside dental assistants.
6. Dallas Academy of Dentistry – Dental Assisting Program
Dallas Academy of Dentistry provides certification in dental assisting, preparing students for professional roles in dental offices.
Fees & Cost
- Tuition: ~$3,329
Why It’s Great
- Focused curriculum with clinical readiness.
- Affordable option for students seeking entry-level positions.
- Graduates are immediately eligible for certification exams.
7. Pima Medical Institute – Dental Support Programs
Pima Medical Institute offers dental assisting and support programs emphasizing practical skills.
Fees & Cost
- Tuition varies based on program length and enrollment.
Why It’s Great
- Strong career support and placement services.
- Emphasis on hands-on clinical experience.
- Prepares students for both entry-level and advanced dental roles.
8. Wharton County Junior College – Dental Support
Although not in Dallas proper, Wharton County JC provides dental support training for DFW-area students.
Fees & Cost
- In-state tuition: ~$3,514 annually
Why It’s Great
- Very affordable and accessible.
- Offers associate degree programs for dental support careers.
- Prepares graduates for immediate employment in dental offices.
9. Collin County Community College District – Dental Support
Collin County CC offers dental support training with a focus on clinical readiness and licensure preparation.
Fees & Cost
- In-state fees: ~$3,514 per year
Why It’s Great
- Affordable program with flexible scheduling.
- Strong focus on real-world clinical skills.
- Prepares students for entry-level dental support careers.
10. Texas Woman’s University (TWU) – Dental Hygiene Partnerships
TWU partners with local clinics to provide advanced dental hygiene programs and clinical experience opportunities.
Fees & Cost
- Tuition varies based on program and residency status
Why It’s Great
- Reputed for health sciences programs.
- Offers partnerships with local dental clinics.
- Ideal for students seeking advanced training in dental hygiene.
11. Baylor College of Dentistry Partnerships
Baylor provides continuing education and professional courses in collaboration with Dallas-area dental clinics.
Fees & Cost
- Fees vary based on selected courses
Why It’s Great
- Excellent for licensed dentists seeking continuing education.
- Offers professional development in advanced dental techniques.
- Strengthens career credentials and networking opportunities.
12. University of Texas Health Science Center – Regional Programs
UT Health maintains a presence in Dallas through seminars, outreach programs, and clinical training.
Fees & Cost
- Tuition varies for DDS and advanced programs
Why It’s Great
- Strong reputation for academic rigor.
- Offers opportunities for research and advanced clinical exposure.
- Prepares students for licensure and advanced careers.
13. High Point University Workman School of Dental Medicine
High Point University offers DDS programs with clinical partnerships accessible to Dallas students.
Fees & Cost
- Total resident tuition: ~$77,402
Why It’s Great
- Lower cost option for a DDS program.
- Offers both online coursework and clinical rotations.
- Prepares graduates for licensure with practical training.
14. Community College and Continuing Education Programs
Multiple community colleges in Dallas, including Brookhaven and Mountain View College, offer certification programs and dental hygiene prerequisites.
Fees & Cost
- Tuition varies based on course load
Why It’s Great
- Flexible and affordable supplemental training.
- Prepares students for higher-level programs.
- Allows students to balance education with work.
15. Online Dental Education and Certificate Programs
Several providers offer online courses in dental anatomy, practice management, and oral sciences for continuing education.
Fees & Cost
- Varies depending on provider and course length
Why It’s Great
- Flexible and convenient for working professionals.
- Affordable option for supplemental education.
- Helps maintain licensure and professional growth.
Comparison Table of Dallas Dental Schools
| School / Program | Type | Duration | Tuition/Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas A&M College of Dentistry | DDS | 4 yrs | $99,936–$157,536 | Aspiring Dentists |
| El Centro College | Dental Hygiene | 2–3 yrs | $6,881–$9,474/yr | Dental Hygienists |
| Dallas College | Dental Hygiene | 2 yrs | $10,987/yr | Dental Hygienists |
| Concorde Career College | Dental Support | 1–2 yrs | $25,484 | Dental Support |
| Dallas Dental Assistant School | Dental Assisting | 6 mo | $3,950–$5,695 | Dental Assistants |
| Dallas Academy of Dentistry | Dental Assisting | 8 weeks | $3,329 | Dental Assistants |
| Pima Medical Institute | Dental Support | 1 yr | Varies | Dental Support |
| Wharton County JC | Dental Support | 2 yrs | $3,514/yr | Dental Support |
| Collin County CC | Dental Support | 2 yrs | $3,514/yr | Dental Support |
| TWU Partnerships | Hygiene | Varies | Varies | Advanced Hygiene |
| Baylor CE Programs | Continuing Ed | Varies | Varies | Dentists/Professionals |
| UT Health Network | DDS & Outreach | 4 yrs | Varies | Aspiring Dentists |
| High Point Workman School | DDS | 4 yrs | $77,402 | Aspiring Dentists |
| Community College Courses | CE/Prep | Varies | Varies | Prerequisite Training |
| Online Dental Ed | Certificates | Varies | Varies | Continuing Ed |
How to Choose the Right Dental Program
- Aspiring Dentists: DDS programs like Texas A&M College of Dentistry or High Point University.
- Dental Hygienists: El Centro College or Dallas College offer solid hygiene programs.
- Fast-track Entry: Dental assistant programs at Dallas Dental Assistant School or Dallas Academy of Dentistry.
- Affordable Options: Community colleges like Wharton County JC or Collin County CC.
- Continuing Education: Baylor College of Dentistry and online programs for professionals.
Tips for Success in Dental School
- Complete prerequisites early – focus on science courses required for DDS programs.
- Gain practical experience – volunteer or shadow dentists.
- Prepare for entrance exams – DAT scores are critical.
- Visit schools – tour labs and clinics to see facilities.
- Explore financial aid – scholarships, grants, and payment plans can reduce costs.
Conclusion
Dallas provides a broad spectrum of dental education programs, from prestigious DDS programs to affordable dental hygiene and support courses. By understanding tuition costs, program structure, and career outcomes, students can make informed choices that align with their goals and budgets.
Whether you aspire to be a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant, Dallas has a program for you — with opportunities for hands-on clinical experience, licensure preparation, and strong career prospects.