Jonathan BensonAre you planning a career in dentistry or dental hygiene in Houston, TX? Houston offers a variety of dental programs, from Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) programs to dental hygiene and dental assisting courses. Choosing the right school depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred timeline for entering the workforce.
This guide explores the top 10 dental schools and programs in Houston, including program details, fees, and career paths.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Houston And Fees
1. UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry (DDS Program)
The UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry is the only accredited dental school in Houston offering a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Established in 1905, this school has a long-standing reputation for excellence and provides a wide range of specialty training programs.
Why Choose UTHealth?
- Offers robust clinical experience with supervised patient care at the Texas Medical Center.
- Provides advanced dental specialties including pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics.
- International Dentist Education Program (IDEP) available for foreign-trained dentists.
Estimated Fees
- Resident DDS tuition: ~$36,662/year
- Total 4-year tuition (excluding living costs): ~$146,000+ for in-state, higher for non-residents
- Additional fees for clinical supplies and technology
Career Path: DDS, specialty residencies, or advanced clinical roles
2. Pima Medical Institute – Houston (Dental Hygiene)
Pima Medical Institute – Houston offers quality programs in dental hygiene and dental assisting, preparing students for in-demand careers. The institute focuses on hands-on training, clinical experience, and job placement support.
Program Highlights:
- Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene with hands-on clinical training.
- Shorter program for faster entry into the dental workforce.
- Prepares students for licensure and clinical practice.
Estimated Fees:
- Total tuition (2-year program): ~$15,000–$50,000 (varies per student)
- Additional costs: instruments, clinical fees, and licensure exams
Career Path: Licensed dental hygienist in private clinics or public health
3. Houston Community College – Dental Hygiene
Houston Community College (HCC) offers a well-respected Dental Hygiene Program through Coleman College.
Program Highlights:
- Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene
- Prepares graduates for licensure exams and clinical practice
- Affordable tuition compared to private institutions
Estimated Fees:
- Tuition: ~$10,000–$15,000 for in-district students
- Additional costs: supplies, health insurance, and licensing exams
Career Path: Licensed dental hygienist, community health roles, or private practice
4. Lone Star College – Dental Hygiene
Lone Star College’s Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene at Kingwood and other campuses provides students with comprehensive training in dental hygiene. The program focuses on clinical skills, patient care, and community health, preparing graduates for careers as dental hygienists
Program Highlights:
- Two-year program combining classroom instruction and clinical training
- Prepares students for national and state licensure exams
- Affordable, community-focused program
Estimated Fees:
- Tuition: ~$12,000–$16,000 for the entire program
- Additional fees: clinical supplies and exam costs
Career Path: Dental hygienist in private practice or public health
5. Dental Assistant School of Houston
If you aim to enter the dental field quickly, the Dental Assistant School of Houston offers specialized dental assisting programs.
Program Highlights:
- Hands-on training in real dental office settings
- Prepares students for entry-level dental assistant positions
- Short-term program (6–12 months)
Estimated Fees:
- Tuition varies; generally lower than degree programs
- Additional costs for certification exams and supplies
Career Path: Dental assistant or pathway to dental hygiene and DDS programs
6. University of Houston – Dental Assisting Program
The University of Houston’s Dental Assisting Program offers flexible tracks through continuing education and healthcare pathways. Students gain practical skills in dental assisting, preparing for roles in dental offices, clinics, or hospitals.
Program Highlights:
- Prepares students for entry-level dental assisting roles
- Core competencies include radiography, patient preparation, and office duties
- Short program suitable for career changers or quick workforce entry
Estimated Fees:
- Tuition moderate, varies depending on program duration
- Additional costs include supplies and certification exams
Career Path: Certified dental assistant, office support, or pre-DDS preparation
7. Lone Star College – Dental Assisting
Lone Star College also offers certificate programs in dental assisting, ideal for students who want to start working in dentistry quickly.
Program Highlights:
- Short-term certificate programs (~1 year)
- Affordable tuition for entry-level dental roles
- Provides a foundation for advanced dental education
Estimated Fees:
- Tuition: typically lower than degree programs, varies by campus
- Additional costs: tools and certification fees
Career Path: Dental assistant or stepping stone to dental hygiene or DDS
8. Nearby Texas DDS Schools
Although Houston has only one DDS program, nearby institutions are excellent alternatives:
- Texas A&M University College of Dentistry (Dallas) – Accredited DDS program with full specialty training.
- UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry – Offers DDS and specialty residencies.
Estimated Fees: Comparable to UTHealth Houston DDS program
Career Path: DDS, advanced specialties, academic or research dentistry
9. Dental Hygiene Prep & Certification Programs
In addition to degree programs, many Houston-area community colleges and private providers offer prep courses and certifications for dental assistants and dental hygienists.
Program Highlights:
- Short-duration programs for licensure preparation
- Varying costs, generally affordable
- Useful for career advancement or bridging to full-degree programs
10. Continuing Education & Specialty Training
For practicing dental professionals, Houston provides multiple continuing education (CE) and specialty training programs:
Areas Covered:
- Oral surgery
- Orthodontics
- Endodontics
- Pediatric dentistry
Fees: Vary by program and institution
Career Path: Advanced clinical roles, specialty practice, or academic teaching
Comparison Table: Dental Schools & Programs in Houston
| School / Program | Program Type | Duration | Estimated Tuition & Fees | Credential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry | DDS | 4 years | ~$36,662/year + fees (~$150k+) | DDS |
| UTHealth Dental Hygiene Program | BS Dental Hygiene | 2–4 yrs | ~$30k+ | BSDH |
| Pima Medical Institute – Houston | Associate | ~2 yrs | ~$15,000–$50,000 | Assoc. DH |
| Houston Community College – Dental Hygiene | Associate | ~2 yrs | ~$10,000–$15,000 | Assoc. DH |
| Lone Star College – Dental Hygiene | Associate | ~2 yrs | ~$12,000–$16,000 | Assoc. DH |
| Dental Assistant School of Houston | Certificate | 6–12 mo | Moderate, varies | Certificate |
| University of Houston – Dental Assisting | Certificate | ~6 mo | Moderate, varies | Certificate |
| Lone Star College – Dental Assisting | Certificate | ~1 yr | Lower cost, varies | Certificate |
| Continuing Ed & Specialty Training | Various | Varies | Varies | CE / Residency |
| Nearby Texas DDS Schools | DDS | 4 yrs | Similar to UTHealth | DDS |
Conclusion
Houston offers a wide range of dental education opportunities, from the prestigious DDS program at UTHealth Houston to affordable dental hygiene and assisting programs. Choosing the right school depends on your goals, timeline, and budget.
Tips for Success:
- Evaluate long-term career goals: DDS vs. hygiene vs. assisting
- Compare total cost including tuition, living expenses, and supplies
- Contact admissions offices for updated tuition and financial aid options
Whether you want to become a dentist or dental hygienist, Houston provides multiple paths to launch a rewarding dental career.