Jonathan BensonDental education in Maine prepares students for careers ranging from dentists to dental hygienists and dental assistants. Whether you want a full Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree or a fast-track dental assisting program, Maine has options that fit different goals, budgets, and timelines.
This post highlights the top 10 dental schools and programs in Maine, their tuition and fees, and what makes each program unique.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Maine And Fees
1. University of New England College of Dental Medicine
The University of New England (UNE) College of Dental Medicine is the only CODA-accredited dental school in Maine. It offers a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, recognized for high-quality clinical training, community outreach, and hands-on patient care.
Program Highlights:
- Four-year DMD program
- Advanced Standing Track for internationally trained dentists
- Extensive clinical patient care opportunities
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition: ~$82,390 per year (2026)
- Total direct costs (including program fees): ~$95,000+ per year
UNE is ideal for students aiming to become licensed dentists and work anywhere in the U.S.
2. University of Maine at Augusta – Dental Hygiene (Associate & Bachelor’s)
UMA offers accredited Dental Hygiene programs through an Associate in Science and a Bachelor of Science completion pathway. UMA is known for smaller class sizes, supportive faculty, and a lower tuition compared to private institutions.
Program Highlights:
- 3-year Associate degree option
- Bachelor of Science completion pathway
- Clinical experience with real patients
Tuition & Fees:
- In-State Tuition: Significantly lower than private dental schools
UMA is perfect for students who want a cost-effective pathway into dental hygiene.
3. University of New England – Department of Dental Hygiene
UNE also offers a Dental Hygiene degree, blending classroom learning with clinical practice to prepare students for preventive oral healthcare roles.
Program Highlights:
- Bachelor’s level dental hygiene education
- Clinical experience in UNE’s dental clinics
- Collaborative environment with DMD students
Tuition & Fees:
- Estimated Tuition: ~$44,280 per year
UNE’s dental hygiene program provides advanced clinical training within a health sciences environment.
4. Southern Maine Community College – Dental Assistant Training
SMCC offers a Dental Assistant Training program for students seeking entry-level roles. The course is fast-paced (~10 weeks), making it ideal for career changers or recent high school graduates.
Program Highlights:
- Prepares for the DANB RHS exam
- Hands-on clinical training
- Short duration for quick career entry
Tuition & Fees:
- Program Cost: ~$3,200 (including books)
SMCC is one of the most affordable routes into the dental field in Maine.
5. University of Maine at Augusta – Dental Assisting Program
UMA’s Dental Assisting program prepares students for clinical and administrative roles in dental practices. Typically a three-semester program, it combines theory with hands-on clinical experience.
Program Highlights:
- Prepares students for CDA exam eligibility
- Includes externship clinical hours
- Practical application in dental offices
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition and fees vary depending on enrollment and residency
This program is perfect for students wanting a career in dental assisting with licensure eligibility.
6. Expanded Functions Dental Assisting (UMA)
UMA also offers an Expanded Functions Dental Assisting (EFDA) program for students seeking advanced clinical duties.
Program Highlights:
- Advanced clinical responsibilities
- Builds employability and higher wage potential
- Prepares students for more hands-on dental work
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition and fees align with UMA’s standard dental program rates
EFDA training is ideal for career growth in dental assisting.
7. Private Certificate Programs
Various career schools and private institutions in Maine offer dental assisting certificates. These programs are flexible and often shorter than college programs.
Program Highlights:
- Fast-track entry into dental careers
- Online or blended learning with clinical externships
- Prepares students for entry-level positions
Tuition & Fees:
- Range: ~$2,500 to $5,000+ depending on provider and materials
Private certificates are great for students seeking flexibility and quick employment.
8. Bridge & Continuing Education Programs
Some Maine institutions offer bridge programs and continuing education (CE) courses for internationally trained dentists or professionals seeking to upgrade skills.
Program Highlights:
- Pathways for U.S. licensure requirements
- Short courses on dental specialties
- Helps professionals update or pivot careers
Tuition & Fees:
- Varies widely depending on course length and provider
These programs support professional growth and certification upgrades.
9. Community College Allied Health Pathways
Community colleges in Maine provide allied health pathways that include dental modules. These programs develop interdisciplinary skills for careers in dental offices or preventive care.
Program Highlights:
- Prepares students for dental support roles
- Includes radiography, office management, and preventive care
- Offers a foundation for further dental education
Tuition & Fees:
- Typically lower than private institutions
Allied health pathways are ideal for students seeking broader healthcare training with dental skills.
10. Online & Hybrid Dental Education Courses
Online and hybrid courses provide dental terminology, radiography fundamentals, and assistant preparation. They allow flexible, self-paced learning and may supplement other education pathways.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible learning schedule
- Prepares for certification exams
- Supplemental training for current dental professionals
Tuition & Fees:
- Varies widely — often more affordable than traditional programs
These programs are great for skill-building or supplementing professional education.
Comparison Table of Dental Programs in Maine
| Rank | School / Program | Credential | Approx Tuition / Fees | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UNE College of Dental Medicine | D.M.D. | ~$95,000+ per year | 4 years | Future Dentists |
| 2 | UMA – Dental Hygiene (AS/BS) | AS / BS | Public rate | 3–4 years | Dental Hygienists |
| 3 | UNE – Dental Hygiene | Bachelor | ~$44,280 per year | 4 years | Dental Hygienists |
| 4 | SMCC – Dental Assistant Training | Certificate | ~$3,200 | ~10 weeks | Dental Assistants |
| 5 | UMA – Dental Assisting | Certificate / AS | Varies | 3 semesters | Dental Assistants |
| 6 | UMA – EFDA | Advanced Certificate | Varies | Varies | Advanced Dental Assisting |
| 7 | Private Certificate Programs | Certificate | ~$2,500–$5,000 | Varies | Dental Assistants |
| 8 | Bridge / CE Programs | CE / Bridge | Varies | Varies | Dental Professionals |
| 9 | Allied Health Pathways | Diploma | Varies | 1–2 years | Dental Support Roles |
| 10 | Online / Hybrid Courses | Online Certificate | Varies | Self-paced | Foundational Skills |
Conclusion
Maine offers a wide range of dental education programs depending on your career goal and budget:
- Future Dentists: UNE College of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Dental Hygienists: UMA or UNE Dental Hygiene programs
- Quick Career Entry: SMCC and UMA certificate programs
- Advanced Skills & Career Growth: EFDA, bridge, and continuing education programs
With options ranging from short certificates to full professional degrees, Maine provides opportunities for every level of dental career aspiration.