Jonathan BensonFlorida is home to some of the most competitive and respected dental programs in the United States. Whether you’re pursuing a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD/DDS) degree or planning a career in dental hygiene or dental assisting, Florida offers a range of public and private institutions to match your goals and budget.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 15 dental schools in Florida, including tuition fees, program highlights, and what makes each institution stand out. If you’re searching for the best dental schools in Florida and their costs, this article provides everything you need in one place.
Top 15 Dental Schools In Florida And Fees
1. University of Florida College of Dentistry — Gainesville
The University of Florida College of Dentistry is Florida’s flagship public dental school and one of the top-ranked dental institutions in the country. Located in Gainesville, it offers a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program, advanced specialty residencies, and strong research opportunities.
The program is highly competitive and known for strong board pass rates and extensive clinical exposure.
Estimated Tuition:
- In-state: ~$41,700 per year
- Out-of-state: ~$70,800 per year
- Total cost of attendance (including living expenses): $74,000–$103,000 annually
For Florida residents, UF remains one of the most affordable accredited dental schools in the United States.
2. Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine — Fort Lauderdale
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is Florida’s leading private dental school offering a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Located in Fort Lauderdale, NSU emphasizes modern dental technology, early patient interaction, and comprehensive clinical training.
The program integrates simulation labs and community outreach experiences to prepare students for real-world practice.
Estimated Tuition:
- Tuition: ~$55,000–$60,000 per year
- Total estimated annual cost (including fees and living expenses): $75,000+
As a private institution, NSU’s tuition is higher than public options but offers robust facilities and networking opportunities.
3. LECOM College of Dental Medicine — Bradenton
The LECOM College of Dental Medicine in Bradenton is part of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. It offers a DDS program with a patient-centered curriculum and clinical immersion model.
LECOM is known for its structured curriculum and emphasis on community-based dental education.
Estimated Tuition:
- Tuition: ~$73,000–$75,000 per year
- Total annual cost including expenses: $90,000+
LECOM is a private institution, making it one of the more expensive dental programs in Florida.
4. Miami Dade College — Dental Hygiene Program
Miami Dade College offers a respected Dental Hygiene Associate in Science Degree designed to prepare students for licensure as Registered Dental Hygienists.
The program includes classroom instruction, clinical labs, and patient care experience in on-campus clinics.
Estimated Tuition:
- In-state: $5,000–$12,000 per year
- Additional costs for instruments, uniforms, and exams
This program is ideal for students seeking a shorter and more affordable pathway into the dental field.
5. Valencia College — Dental Hygiene Program
Valencia College in Orlando offers a competitive dental hygiene program with strong clinical training components. Students receive hands-on experience in modern dental facilities and community health settings.
Graduates consistently perform well on licensure exams.
Estimated Tuition:
- In-state: $4,000–$10,000 per year
- Additional clinical and supply costs apply
Valencia provides one of the more affordable dental hygiene options in Central Florida.
6. Florida Southwestern State College — Dental Hygiene
Florida Southwestern State College offers an Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene with extensive clinical training.
Students participate in patient care clinics while completing coursework in oral pathology, radiography, and preventive dentistry.
Estimated Tuition:
- $4,000–$10,000 per year (in-state)
- Additional lab and clinical fees
This program serves Southwest Florida and maintains strong local employer connections.
7. Daytona State College — Dental Assisting & Hygiene
Daytona State College provides both dental assisting and dental hygiene tracks. The dental assisting program prepares students for entry-level chairside roles.
Estimated Tuition:
- Dental assisting total program cost: ~$7,500
- Hygiene program: $4,000–$10,000 annually
This college is a strong choice for students seeking affordable dental workforce training.
8. St. Petersburg College — Dental Programs
St. Petersburg College offers dental hygiene and support programs with strong emphasis on patient care.
Students benefit from experienced faculty and well-equipped clinical facilities.
Estimated Tuition:
- $3,000–$8,000 annually (in-state)
It’s one of the more budget-friendly dental education options in West Florida.
9. Santa Fe College — Dental Support Programs
Santa Fe College offers dental assisting and support training programs designed for quick workforce entry.
These programs focus on chairside assisting, sterilization procedures, and radiography basics.
Estimated Tuition:
- $2,500–$4,000 annually (in-state)
This is one of the most affordable dental career entry routes in North Florida.
10. Pensacola State College — Dental Hygiene
Pensacola State College provides dental hygiene training in Northwest Florida with modern clinical facilities.
Graduates qualify for licensure exams and employment in dental clinics across the state.
Estimated Tuition:
- $4,000–$10,000 per year (in-state)
11. Broward College — Dental Assisting
Broward College offers a dental assisting certificate program ideal for students seeking quick certification.
Students receive training in radiology, chairside assisting, and infection control.
Estimated Tuition:
- $5,000–$8,000 total program cost
12. Tallahassee Community College — Dental Hygiene
Tallahassee Community College provides an Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene.
The program emphasizes preventive care, clinical practice, and patient education.
Estimated Tuition:
- $4,000–$10,000 annually (in-state)
13. Hillsborough Community College — Dental Hygiene
Hillsborough Community College offers comprehensive dental hygiene training in Tampa.
Students receive hands-on experience and preparation for national and state board exams.
Estimated Tuition:
- $4,000–$12,000 per year
14. Eastern Florida State College — Dental Assisting
Eastern Florida State College provides dental assisting certification with practical chairside training.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in dental offices.
Estimated Tuition:
- $4,000–$8,000 total cost
15. Indian River State College — Dental Hygiene
Indian River State College offers an Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene with strong community partnerships.
Students gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical practice.
Estimated Tuition:
- $4,000–$10,000 per year (in-state)
Comparison Table: Top 15 Dental Schools in Florida and Fees
| School | Program Type | Estimated Annual Tuition | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | DMD | $41,700 (in-state) / $70,800 (out-of-state) | Gainesville |
| Nova Southeastern University | DDS | $55,000–$60,000 | Fort Lauderdale |
| LECOM | DDS | $73,000–$75,000 | Bradenton |
| Miami Dade College | Hygiene | $5,000–$12,000 | Miami |
| Valencia College | Hygiene | $4,000–$10,000 | Orlando |
| Florida Southwestern State College | Hygiene | $4,000–$10,000 | Fort Myers |
| Daytona State College | Assisting/Hygiene | $7,500 total (assisting) | Daytona Beach |
| St. Petersburg College | Hygiene | $3,000–$8,000 | St. Petersburg |
| Santa Fe College | Assisting | $2,500–$4,000 | Gainesville |
| Pensacola State College | Hygiene | $4,000–$10,000 | Pensacola |
| Broward College | Assisting | $5,000–$8,000 | Fort Lauderdale |
| Tallahassee Community College | Hygiene | $4,000–$10,000 | Tallahassee |
| Hillsborough Community College | Hygiene | $4,000–$12,000 | Tampa |
| Eastern Florida State College | Assisting | $4,000–$8,000 | Brevard County |
| Indian River State College | Hygiene | $4,000–$10,000 | Fort Pierce |
Conclusion
Choosing the right dental school in Florida depends on your career goals, budget, and academic background. If you want to become a licensed dentist (DDS/DMD), your primary options are the University of Florida, Nova Southeastern University, and LECOM. However, if you’re pursuing dental hygiene or assisting, Florida offers numerous affordable and accredited community college programs.
Carefully compare tuition, clinical exposure, board exam success rates, and financial aid opportunities before making your decision. With proper planning, Florida provides excellent pathways into the dental profession at multiple educational levels.