Jonathan BensonIf you are planning a career in dentistry in Idaho — whether as a dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, or dental technician — knowing the best schools and their fees is crucial. While Idaho does not have a standalone DDS/DMD dental school, there are excellent pathways for dental education and support programs in the state.
Idaho may not have its own full DDS/DMD program, but through the Idaho Dental Education Program (IDEP) and strong dental hygiene and dental assisting programs, students can pursue successful careers in dentistry
Top 10 Dental Schools In Idaho And Fees
1. Idaho Dental Education Program (IDEP) – Dentist Pathway
The Idaho Dental Education Program (IDEP) is the main route for Idaho residents who want to become dentists. Since Idaho does not have its own DDS/DMD program, IDEP partners with Creighton University School of Dentistry in Nebraska.
Program Overview:
- First year at Idaho State University (ISU)
- Years 2–4 at Creighton University School of Dentistry
- Graduates earn a DDS degree and can practice nationally
Fees & Costs:
| Cost Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| IDEP Program Fee (per year) | ≈ $34,604 |
| Textbooks & Materials | ≈ $1,400 / year |
| Instruments | ≈ $9,000–$10,000 first year |
| Health Insurance | ≈ $3,530 / year |
| Room & Board | $24,000 – $29,000 / year |
Key Features:
- Reduced tuition compared to attending Creighton independently
- Focused on retaining dentists in Idaho
- Competitive admissions
Who Should Apply: Students aiming to become licensed dentists and return to practice in Idaho.
2. Idaho State University – Dental Hygiene Program
Location: Pocatello, Idaho
Program: Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene
Overview:
ISU’s dental hygiene program is highly regarded for rigorous clinical training and excellent career support. Students gain hands-on experience in local clinics and community settings.
Fees & Costs:
- Net cost for in-state students: ~$18,000/year (before living expenses)
Highlights:
- Nationally recognized curriculum
- Strong focus on clinical experience
- Pathway to advanced certifications
Who Should Apply: Students who want to become licensed dental hygienists in Idaho.
3. College of Southern Idaho – Dental Hygiene & Support Programs
Location: Twin Falls, Idaho
Programs: Dental Hygiene, Dental Assisting
The College of Southern Idaho offers Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting programs in Twin Falls, Idaho. Students gain hands-on training in clinical settings, preparing for careers in dental care. The programs focus on practical skills and patient care.
Fees & Costs:
- In-state tuition: ~$4,500/year
- Affordable for dental support students
Highlights:
- Excellent value for money
- Small class sizes and personalized attention
- Strong partnerships with local dental clinics
Who Should Apply: Students seeking an affordable path to dental hygiene or assisting careers.
4. College of Western Idaho – Dental Assisting / Support Tracks
Location: Nampa, Idaho
Programs: Dental Assisting Certificate, Dental Support Services
The College of Western Idaho offers Dental Assisting Certificate and Dental Support Services programs in Nampa, Idaho. Students gain practical skills in dental assisting, preparing for roles in dental offices, clinics, or hospitals.
Fees & Costs:
- Tuition: ~$4,300–$4,500/year for in-state students
Highlights:
- Practical, hands-on clinical training
- Prepares students for national certification
- Affordable tuition with good career prospects
Who Should Apply: Students aiming to work as dental assistants or pursue hygiene programs later.
5. North Idaho College – Dental Hygiene Program
Location: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Program: Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene
North Idaho College’s Dental Hygiene program in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, offers an Associate Degree preparing students for dental hygiene careers. The program focuses on clinical skills, patient care, and community health.
Fees & Costs:
- Tuition: ~$7,000–$10,000/year (before living expenses)
Highlights:
- Community college environment with close mentorship
- Hands-on training at local clinics
- Can transition to bachelor’s programs
Who Should Apply: Students wanting a supportive environment for dental hygiene training.
6. Carrington College – Boise Dental Programs
Location: Boise, Idaho
Programs: Dental Assistant, Dental Hygiene (programs may vary)
Carrington College – Boise offers Dental Assistant and Dental Hygiene programs (programs may vary). Students gain hands-on training, preparing for careers in dental care. The college focuses on practical skills and job placement support
Fees & Costs:
- Tuition: ~$30,000–$38,000 for full programs
Highlights:
- Career-focused programs with faster entry into the workforce
- Smaller class sizes
- Potential certifications upon completion
Who Should Apply: Students willing to invest more for career-focused dental education.
7. Milan Institute – Nampa Dental Support Programs
Location: Nampa, Idaho
Programs: Dental Support Services / Assisting
Milan Institute – Nampa offers Dental Support Services / Assisting programs preparing students for dental careers. The program focuses on practical skills, clinical experience, and job placement support in Nampa, Idaho
Fees & Costs:
- Program cost: ~$8,000–$10,000
Highlights:
- Shorter program length for fast entry into the workforce
- Focused clinical training
- Ideal for students seeking dental support roles
Who Should Apply: Students who want to start working in dental assisting quickly.
8. College of Eastern Idaho – Dental Support Education
Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Programs: Dental Assisting / Support Services
The College of Eastern Idaho offers Dental Assisting / Support Services programs in Idaho Falls. Students gain practical skills and clinical experience, preparing for dental careers
Fees & Costs:
- Tuition: ~$4,100–$5,000/year
Highlights:
- Affordable and accessible
- Prepares students for entry-level dental jobs
- Excellent value for money
Who Should Apply: Budget-conscious students looking to enter the dental field quickly.
9. Brigham Young University-Idaho – Prerequisite / Transfer Pathway
Location: Rexburg, Idaho
Programs: Science prerequisites and health programs for dental school
BYU-Idaho offers science prerequisites and health programs in Rexburg, Idaho, ideal for students pursuing dental school. The pathway focuses on strong academics, preparing students for dental program transfers
Highlights:
- Strong science foundation
- Transfer credits accepted by dental hygiene and IDEP programs
Who Should Apply: Students who need a solid science background before entering dental programs.
10. Online & Extended Dental Education Options
Programs: Continuing education, specialty certifications
Highlights:
- ADA-accredited online courses
- Supplements primary dental education
- Helps professionals maintain licenses or specialize
Who Should Consider: Current dental students or professionals seeking continuing education.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Dental Schools in Idaho
| Rank | School / Program | Type | Approx Annual Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Idaho Dental Education Program (IDEP) | DDS Pathway | ~$34,000+ plus living | Aspiring dentists |
| 2 | Idaho State University | Dental Hygiene | ~$18,000+ | Dental hygiene careers |
| 3 | College of Southern Idaho | Hygiene & Assist | ~$4,500+ | Hygiene & assisting |
| 4 | College of Western Idaho | Assist/Support | ~$4,300+ | Dental assisting |
| 5 | North Idaho College | Dental Hygiene | ~$7,000+ | Associate’s hygiene |
| 6 | Carrington College Boise | Dental Prog | ~$30,000+ | Career-oriented training |
| 7 | Milan Institute Nampa | Dental Support | ~$8,000+ | Fast entry support |
| 8 | College of Eastern Idaho | Dental Support | ~$4,100+ | Low-cost support |
| 9 | BYU-Idaho | Prereq / Health | varies | Dental prep courses |
| 10 | Online/Supplemental Options | CE & Certs | varies | Continuing education |
Conclusion
While Idaho may not have a standalone DDS/DMD dental school, the state offers a variety of high-quality dental education programs. From the IDEP dentist pathway to dental hygiene and dental assisting programs at community colleges, students have multiple cost-effective options.
Key Takeaways:
- IDEP is the best route for students wanting to become licensed dentists.
- Community colleges like CSI and North Idaho College provide strong, affordable dental hygiene and support programs.
- Career-focused institutions like Carrington College and Milan Institute offer faster workforce entry.
When choosing a program, consider your career goals, budget, and preferred learning environment. Idaho provides great opportunities for aspiring dental professionals seeking quality education at reasonable costs.