Jonathan BensonLas Vegas is rapidly emerging as a hub for dental education. From full Doctor of Dental Medicine programs to dental hygiene, dental assisting, and specialty certifications, aspiring dental professionals have many options. Whether your goal is to become a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant, choosing the right school is crucial for your career and budget.
Dental careers offer stability and strong earning potential, but education costs can be significant. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 dental schools in Las Vegas, their programs, tuition fees, and what makes each unique.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Las Vegas And Fees
1. UNLV School of Dental Medicine
Overview:
The UNLV School of Dental Medicine is the only accredited dental school in Las Vegas offering a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. This four-year program blends classroom learning, clinical training, and community service. Students gain hands-on experience treating patients at on-campus clinics.
Program Highlights:
- Degree: Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Duration: 4 years
- Focus: Comprehensive dentistry, clinical training, community outreach
- Clinical Opportunities: In-house clinics serving Las Vegas residents
Fees & Tuition:
| Year | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | ~$65,714 | ~$110,281 |
| 2nd Year | ~$65,604 | ~$110,171 |
| 3rd Year | ~$66,449 | ~$111,016 |
| 4th Year | ~$49,311 | ~$78,535 |
Note: Fees include registration, student services, and clinical costs.
2. College of Southern Nevada – Dental Hygiene Program
Overview:
CSN offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Hygiene. Students gain practical experience treating patients under supervision at CSN’s on-campus clinics. This program is ideal for those aiming to become licensed dental hygienists.
Program Highlights:
- Degree: Associate in Dental Hygiene
- Duration: 2–3 years
- Focus: Preventive care, patient education, periodontal therapy
- Clinical Training: Hands-on experience at CSN’s dental clinic
Fees & Tuition:
Tuition varies for Nevada residents and includes program-specific fees. Contact CSN for the latest cost details.
3. Northwest Career College – Dental Assistant Program
Overview:
A career-focused college offering a certificate in dental assisting. Programs are designed to quickly prepare students for clinical and administrative roles in dental offices.
Program Highlights:
- Certificate program
- Focused on chairside assisting and office procedures
Fees & Tuition:
- Estimated tuition: $15,499 for the full program
4. NXT LVL Dental Assistant School
Overview:
NXT LVL’s fast-track dental assistant certificate program is designed to get you job-ready quickly. With a focus on practical skills, you’ll gain hands-on experience and be prepared for immediate employment as a dental assistant. The program is perfect for those looking to start their dental career ASAP.
Program Highlights:
- Short-term certificate
- Hands-on dental assisting skills
Fees & Tuition:
- Approximate tuition: $3,750 for a 13-week program
5. Unity Dental Assisting
Overview:
Unity Dental Assisting’s expedited training program gets students job-ready fast. With a focus on practical skills, you’ll gain hands-on experience and be prepared for entry-level dental assisting positions. The program is ideal for those looking to quickly start their dental career
Program Highlights:
- Focused certificate program
- Practical, hands-on training
Fees & Tuition:
- Tuition: $4,550 for a 10-week program
6. Carrington College – Dental Assisting & Expanded Skills
Overview:
Carrington College offers comprehensive dental assisting programs with advanced clinical training.
Program Highlights:
- Diploma or certificate program
- Prepares students for advanced dental assisting roles
Fees & Tuition:
- Total tuition: $20,000+ depending on program track
7. Dental Hygiene Certificate – Continuing Education
Las Vegas also offers certificate and continuing education programs in specialized dental hygiene skills, such as advanced periodontal therapy and pharmacology updates. Fees typically range from $500 to $3,000+ depending on program length.
8. UNLV Post-Graduate Dental Specialty Programs
Overview:
For licensed dentists, UNLV offers residency and specialty programs in areas like orthodontics, oral surgery, and pediatric dentistry. These programs enhance clinical skills and career opportunities.
Fees & Tuition:
- Tuition varies by specialty, often similar to or higher than DMD costs
9. Online Dental Education Partnerships
Several online institutions collaborate with local Las Vegas clinics to provide hybrid dental education, combining online coursework with in-person clinical training.
Fees & Tuition:
- Typically $500–$5,000+ per course
10. Dental Workshops & Certification Courses
Many dental practices in Las Vegas offer short workshops and certifications, focusing on implantology, digital dentistry, and restorative techniques. These courses are ideal for continuing education or skill enhancement.
Fees & Tuition:
- Range from $200 to $3,000+ depending on duration
Comparison Table: Dental Programs & Approximate Fees (Las Vegas)
| Program / School | Degree / Certificate | Approx. Cost | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNLV School of Dental Medicine | DMD | $65k–$110k per year | 4 yrs | Accredited DDS/DMD program |
| CSN Dental Hygiene | AAS | Varies | 2–3 yrs | Hands-on clinical experience |
| Northwest Career College | Certificate | ~$15,499 | 6–9 months | Career dental assisting |
| NXT LVL Dental Assistant | Certificate | ~$3,750 | 13 weeks | Fast-track assisting |
| Unity Dental Assisting | Certificate | ~$4,550 | 10 weeks | Entry-level dental assisting |
| Carrington College | Diploma / Certificate | $20k+ | Varies | Advanced assisting training |
| UNLV Specialty Residency Programs | Post-Graduate | Varies | 2–3 yrs | Advanced clinical specialties |
| Online Dental Education | Certificate | $500–$5,000+ | Varies | Continuing ed & exam prep |
| Dental Workshops | Certificate | $200–$3,000+ | 1 day–weeks | Focused skills development |
| Continuing Ed Partnerships | Certificate | $500–$3,000+ | Varies | Hybrid or online clinical prep |
Conclusion
Las Vegas offers a wide range of dental education options. From UNLV’s full DMD program to community colleges, career schools, online courses, and workshops, there’s a path for every aspiring dental professional. Tuition varies widely: full dental degrees cost tens of thousands per year, while shorter certificates are much more affordable.
When choosing a program, consider your career goals, program length, clinical opportunities, and fees. Always verify tuition with the school, as costs change annually.
With the right program, Las Vegas can be your launchpad to a rewarding career in dental health.