If you are looking forward to attending one of the best dental schools in Ohio, you are at the right place, as this article lists all dental schools in Ohio for you to choose from.
Some of these schools offer some of the best dental hygiene, dental assisting, and other dental programs in Ohio and the country at large. Just before we get into the list, let us learn a thing or two about this profession.
According to Britannica, Dentistry is the profession dealing with the prevention and treatment of oral disease, which includes disorders of the teeth and supporting structures, as well as diseases of the mouth’s soft tissues. Dentistry also includes the treatment and correction of jaw malformations, tooth misalignment, and congenital defects of the oral cavity such as cleft palate.
According to US News And World Report, Dentists are ranked 11th in the list of Best Paying Jobs. Jobs are graded based on their capacity to provide an elusive combination of factors. It is also ranked #16 in the Best Health Care Jobs, #17 in the Best STEM Jobs, and #47 in the Top 100 Jobs.
There are about 6,626 dentists in Ohio. That works out to one dentist for every 1,746 Ohioans. As of 2021, the average Dentist salary in Ohio is $180,920 ($86.98 per hour), with a pay range of $127,810 to $208,000. This would surely be an interesting career path for you should you choose it.
How To Become A Dentist In Ohio
Beginning from a Bachelor’s degree to a Masters’s degree and applying for licensure in the state of Ohio, the texts below explain the roadmap to becoming a licensed dental professional.
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Students must complete at least 90 hours of an undergraduate program before entering dental school, though many departments now require a full degree.
While students may choose to pursue unrelated courses, those who major in pre-dentistry or a science-related field will be ahead of the pack when it comes to meeting prerequisite criteria.
2. Pass the Dental Acceptance Test with flying colors.
The American Dental Association administers the Dental Acceptance Test, which is a crucial component of a dental school application.
This five-hour test has 280 questions and is primarily weighted toward natural science questions, with reading comprehension and quantitative thinking also accounting for a considerable amount of the overall score.
The current average score is 20 out of a possible 30 points. However, in order to be truly competitive, students should aspire for a higher grades.
3. Earn a Doctorate Degree
In the United States, dental schools currently offer two types of programs that prepare students to practice as dentists once licensed: the Doctor of Dental Surgery and the Doctor of Dental Medicine.
In terms of coursework and outcomes, these programs are nearly identical. At this point, the most critical step is to choose a program certified by the Commission on Dental Accreditation to secure licensing following graduation.
4. Complete Licensing Requirements
Individual states impose licensing requirements for dentists, but most follow a similar pattern. Students must pass two examinations covering written and clinical components in addition to completing a term of study at a recognized institution.
Licensing Requirements In The State of Ohio
Before a license can be issued, the Board requires that all applicants complete all requirements. If any application materials are erroneous or false, the Board may deny licensing without refunding any examination fees.
Assuming the applicant has already been licensed in another state and needs an Ohio dental license in order to continue practicing. In that instance, they will need to show proof of their current Ohio dental board eligibility.
Furthermore, an applicant who is transferring from another state where they were not in good standing may require additional credentials such as certification or degrees before acquiring a license in this state.
An applicant for an Ohio Dental Board License must be:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- A graduate of an American Dental Association Commission-accredited dental school.
- Successfully completed the following exams:
- The Dental National Board Exam
- Ohio Laws and Rules Examination
- The ADEX Dental Licensing Exam
The List of Dental Schools In Ohio
33 dental colleges in Ohio provide certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in dental assisting, pre-dental studies, general dentistry, and dental hygiene.
Ohio State University has the top dental programs in the state. This dentistry institution offers top-notch programs of the highest caliber, earning five stars for curriculum and four stars for instruction.
| Classification | Number of Schools |
| General and Pre-Dental Schools In Ohio | 4 |
| Dental Assisting schools in Ohio | 20 |
| Dental Hygiene Schools in Ohio | 13 |
| Orthodontics and Pediatric | 1 |
| Prosthodontics and Periodontics | 1 |
| Oral Surgery | 1 |
Below are the 33 dental schools in Ohio in no particular order:
1. Ohio State University
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State University is a sizable public university that offers a wide range of academic programs, including dental majors. Since its founding in 1870, this college has offered three dental programs leading to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.
The annual tuition at Ohio State University ranges between $36,000 and $46,000. The dental program at Ohio State University is ranked as one of the top 20 dental schools in the United States and the best dental school in Ohio based on 60 evaluation factors.
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2. Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, Ohio-based Case Western Reserve University is a medium-sized, non-profit university that offers a wide range of academic programs, including dental degrees.
Since its founding in 1967, this college has been providing masters and doctoral degrees in six different dental programs.
The cost of attending Case Western Reserve University ranges from about $57,000 a year for tuition, depending on the program.
The dental program at Case Western Reserve University is ranked in the top 50 dental schools in the United States and as the second-best dental school in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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3. Youngstown State University
The dental program is one of many disciplines offered by the medium-sized public Youngstown State University, which is situated in Youngstown, Ohio. The institution has been in operation since 1908 and now grants bachelor’s degrees in dental hygiene.
The annual cost of tuition at Youngstown State University is roughly $11,000. Youngstown State University’s dental program is ranked in the top 100 dental schools in the US and as the third-best dental school in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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4. University of Toledo
The University of Toledo is a medium-sized public college in Toledo, Ohio that offers various subjects as well as a dental program. Since 1872, the institution has been giving master’s degrees in General Dental Clinical Sciences.
The University of Toledo is a tad pricey: tuition costs roughly $21,000 per year, depending on the degree.
Based on 60 evaluation criteria, the University of Toledo dental program ranks #110 in the United States (out of 771; top 15%) and in the Top 5 Dental Schools in Ohio.
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5. Choffin Career and Technical Center
Choffin Career and Technical Center is a tiny public college in Youngstown, Ohio, with a focus on the dental curriculum. The institution was established in 1948 and today provides certifications in Dental Assisting.
Choffin Career and Technical Center has a low tuition rate of roughly $10,000 per year. Based on 60 assessment criteria, Choffin Career and Technical Center’s dental program is #141 (out of 771; top 20%) in the United States and in the top 5 dental schools in Ohio.
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6. Sinclair Community College
Sinclair Community College, located in Dayton, Ohio, is a medium-sized public community college that offers numerous subjects as well as a dental degree. Since 1887, the school has been providing associate’s degrees in Dental Hygiene.
Sinclair Community College is affordable; tuition is roughly $9,000 per year, depending on the curriculum. Based on 60 rating variables, Sinclair Community College’s dental department ranks #150 (out of 771; top 20%) in the United States and #6 in Ohio.
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7. Ohio Valley College of Technology
In East Liverpool, Ohio, there is a relatively small for-profit college called Ohio Valley College of Technology that has a focus on the dental major. Currently, this college, which has been in operation since 1886, offers certifications and associate’s degrees in dental assisting.
The cost of attending Ohio Valley College of Technology is relatively low; depending on the curriculum, it ranges from $14,000 to $16,000 annually.
The dental program at Ohio Valley College of Technology is ranked as the seventh-best dental school in Ohio and the #158th-best dental school nationwide (out of 771 dental schools; top 25%) based on 60 assessment parameters.
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8. Lorain County Community College
Located in Elyra, Ohio, Lorain County Community College is a medium-sized public community college that offers a wide range of academic programs, including a dental program.
Associate’s degrees in Dental Hygiene are currently being offered at this institution, which was founded in 1964.
The cost of attending Lorain County Community College is reasonable; depending on the curriculum, it costs about $10,000 a year for tuition.
The dental program at Lorain County Community College is ranked #8 in Ohio and #176 overall (out of 771 dental schools; top 25%) in the United States based on 60 assessment parameters.
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9. Lakeland Community College
Located in Kirtland, Ohio, Lakeland Community College is a tiny public community college that offers a wide range of academic programs, including a dental degree.
Associate’s degrees in Dental Hygiene are currently available from the institution, which has been in operation since 1967.
Lakeland Community College offers reasonably priced education; depending on the curriculum, annual tuition is about $11,000.
The dental program at Lakeland Community College is ranked #9 in Ohio and #189 out of 771 dental schools nationwide based on 60 assessment parameters.
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10. University of Dayton
The University of Dayton is a medium-sized, non-profit Catholic university with various academic programs, including a dental major, and is situated in Dayton, Ohio. The college, which was established in 1850, currently grants bachelor’s degrees in pre-dental studies.
University of Dayton tuition ranges from $49,000 to over $100,000 annually, depending on the program.
The dental program at the University of Dayton is ranked as the No. 10 dental school in Ohio and No. 202 dental school nationwide (out of 771; top 30%) based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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11. O C Collins Career Center
O C Collins Career Center is a fairly modest public college in Chesapeake, Ohio, that offers many academic degrees, including dental training. This college has been in operation since 1976 and offers certifications in two dental programs at the moment.
O C Collins Career Center’s dental program is ranked as Ohio’s #11 dental school and ranks #216 out of 771 dental schools nationwide based on 60 rating criteria.
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12. University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College
Located in Blue Ash, Ohio, the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College is a modest public university that offers a wide range of academic programs, including a dental major. A dental hygiene associate’s degree is currently available from the school.
The cost of attending the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College is relatively low; depending on the curriculum, it ranges between $17,000 and $20,000 annually.
The dental program at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College is ranked #217 (out of 771; top 30%) in the United States and #12 in Ohio based on 60 assessment parameters.
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13. Fortis College Centerville
The dental major is one of many disciplines offered by the tiny for-profit Fortis College Centerville, which is located in Centerville, Ohio. The college was established in 1953 and offers certificates in dental assisting right now.
Depending on the program, tuition at Fortis College Centerville costs roughly $16,000 a year.
The dental program at Fortis College Centerville is ranked #13 in Ohio and #233 nationally (out of 771 dental schools; top 35%) based on 60 evaluation metrics.
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14. Great Oaks Career
Cincinnati, Ohio-based Great Oaks Career is a tiny public college with a wide range of academic programs, including a dental program. The institution, which opened its doors in 1970, is now giving certificates in dental assisting.
Great Oaks Career College dental program ranks #14 dental school in Ohio and #266 dental school overall (out of 771; top 35%) based on 60 rating factors.
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15. Cuyahoga Community College District
Located in Cleveland, Ohio, the medium-sized public Cuyahoga Community College District offers a wide range of academic programs, including a dental degree.
Associate’s degrees in Dental Hygiene are currently available from the institution, which has been in operation since 1962.
The tuition at Cuyahoga Community College District is often under $11,000 per year.
The dental program at Cuyahoga Community College District is ranked #16 in Ohio and #326 in the United States out of 771 dental schools, according to 60 evaluation criteria.
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16. James A Rhodes State College
Located in Lima, Ohio, James A Rhodes State College is a modest public institution providing a wide range of academic programs, including a dental program. Since its establishment in 1971, the institution has been providing associate’s degrees in dental hygiene.
The annual cost of tuition at James A. Rhodes State College is roughly $11,000. James A. Rhodes State College’s dental program is ranked #324 (out of 771; top 45) among dental schools in the United States and #15 in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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17. Fortis College Cincinnati
Fortis College Cincinnati, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a small for-profit college with a focus on the dental school. The institution was founded in 1922 and currently provides certifications in Dental Assisting.
Fortis College Cincinnati has a relatively low tuition of roughly $16,000 per year. Fortis College Cincinnati’s dental program is ranked #345 Dental School (out of 771; top 45%) in the United States and #17 Dental School in Ohio based on 60 evaluation variables.
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18. Owens Community College
Owens Community College, located in Perrysburg, Ohio, is a modest public community college that offers various subjects as well as dental programs. The school was established in 1965 and currently provides certifications and associate’s degrees in two dental programs.
Owens Community College is relatively inexpensive: tuition is around $12,000 per year, depending on the curriculum. Owens Community College’s dental program is ranked #357 Dental School (out of 771; top 50%) in the United States and #18 Dental School in Ohio based on 60 assessment parameters.
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19. Stark State College
Located in North Canton, Ohio, Stark State College is a medium-sized public institution with a wide range of academic offerings, including dental degrees. Since its inception in 1960, this college has provided associate’s degrees in two different dental programs.
The cost of attending Stark State College is reasonable; depending on the program, it costs around $8,000. The dental program at Stark State College is ranked as the #362 dental school (out of 771; top 50%) in the United States and the #19 dental school in Ohio based on 60 assessment factors.
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20. Columbus State Community College
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Columbus State Community College is a sizable public community college that offers a wide range of academic programs, including a dental degree. Since its founding in 1963, the college has been awarding associate’s degrees in dental hygiene.
The annual cost of tuition at Columbus State Community College is about $13,000. The dental program at Columbus State Community College is ranked as the #20 dental school in Ohio and the #379 dental school nationwide (out of 771; top 50%) based on 60 assessment parameters.
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21. Eastern Gateway Community College
Located in Steubenville, Ohio, Eastern Gateway Community College is a sizable public community college that offers a wide range of academic programs, including a dental degree. Since its founding in 1966, this college has been providing certificates and associate’s degrees in dental assisting.
The cost of attending Eastern Gateway Community College is reasonable; depending on the curriculum, it costs about $10,000 a year for tuition.
The dental program at Eastern Gateway Community College is ranked as the #388 dental school (out of 771; top 55%) in the United States and the #21 dental school in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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22. Shawnee State University
The dental major is one of many disciplines offered by the small, public Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Ohio. Currently, this institution offers associate’s degrees in dental hygiene.
The annual tuition for Shawnee State University is roughly $17,000. The dental program at Shawnee State University is ranked as the #436 dental school overall (out of 771; top 60%) and the #22 dental school in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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23. Wayne County Schools Career Center
Located in Smithville, Ohio, Wayne County Schools Career Center is a modest public college with a focus on the dental curriculum. Since its opening in 1969, this institution has been providing certificates in dental assisting.
The dental program at Wayne County Schools Career Center is ranked #23 in Ohio and #467 (out of 771; top 65%) among dental schools nationwide.
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24. Polaris Career Center
The Middleburg Heights, Ohio-based Polaris Career Center is a modest public institution with a strong dental department. Since its inception in 1975, this institution has been providing certificates in dental assisting.
The cost of attending Polaris Career Center is reasonable; depending on the program, it costs around $6,000. The dental program at Polaris Career Center is ranked #469 (out of 771; top 65%) in the United States and #24 in Ohio.
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4.25. Ross Medical Education Center Cincinnati
Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, the Ross Medical Education Center Cincinnati is a little for-profit university that specializes in dental programs. Since its establishment in 1977, this institution has been providing dental assisting certificates.
The dental program at Ross Medical Education Center Cincinnati is ranked #498 (out of 771; top 65%) in the United States and #25 in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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26. Apollo Career Center
The Lima, Ohio-based Apollo Career Center is a modest public institution with a strong dental department. Currently, the college offers certificates in dental assisting.
The dental program at Apollo Career Center is ranked #632 (out of 771; top 85%) in the United States and #26 in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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27. Eastland Fairfield Career and Technical Schools
A modest public institution in Groveport, Ohio, Eastland Fairfield Career and Technical Schools is focused on the dental major. Currently, this school offers certificates in dental assisting.
The dental program at Eastland Fairfield Career and Technical Schools is ranked #645 (out of 771; top 85%) in the United States and #27 in Ohio based on 60 evaluation criteria.
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28. Ross Medical Education Center Elyria
Ross Medical Education Center, based in Elyria, Ohio, is a small for-profit college with a focus on the dental curriculum. Currently, the school offers certifications in Dental Assisting.
Ross Medical Education Center Elyria’s dental program is ranked #685 in the United States (out of 771; top 90%) and #28 in Ohio.
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29. Fortis College Cuyahoga Falls
Located in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Fortis College Cuyahoga Falls is a modest for-profit university with a focus on the dental major. Currently, the college offers certificates in dental assisting.
The cost of attending Fortis College Cuyahoga Falls is relatively low; depending on the program, it ranges from $17,000 to $18,000 annually. The dental program at Fortis College Cuyahoga Falls is ranked #696 (out of 771; top 95%) in the US and #29 in Ohio.
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30. Ross Medical Education Center Niles
The Niles, Ohio-based Ross Medical Education Center Niles is a smaller for-profit university with a strong dental department. Dental assisting certificates are now being offered by this institution.
The annual cost of tuition at Ross Medical Education Center Niles is about $17,000. The dental program at Ross Medical Education Center Niles is ranked #708 (out of 771; top 95%) in the US and #30 in Ohio.
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31. Ross Medical Education Center Dayton
Located in Dayton, Ohio, Ross Medical Education Center Dayton is a little for-profit university that specializes on dental majors. Certificates in Dental Assisting are currently being offered by the school.
The dental program at Ross Medical Education Center Dayton is ranked #723 (out of 771; top 95%) in the US and #31 in Ohio.
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32. Ross College Canton
Located in Canton, Ohio, Ross College Canton is a modest for-profit college with a focus on dental school. Currently, this school offers certificates in dental assisting.
The dental program at Ross College Canton is ranked #740 (out of 771; top 100%) in the United States and #32 in Ohio.
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33. Scioto County Career Technical Center
Located in Lucasville, Ohio, Scioto County Career Technical Center is a fairly modest public institution that offers a variety of specialties, including the dental program. Currently, this institution, which has been in operation since 1986, is giving certificates in dental assisting.
The dental program at Scioto County Career Technical Center is ranked #765 (out of 771; top 100%) in the US and #33 in Ohio.
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FAQs
Does Ohio State University have a dental school?
The fourth-largest public dental school in the US is the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program at Ohio State University College of Dentistry. 64 dental hygiene students are taught alongside their 440 dental students by 103 full-time lecturers and 184 part-time lecturers.
How long is dental school at Ohio State?
Four years of high school and a diploma were the only qualifications for enrollment when The Ohio State University acquired its dental school in 1914, and the dental program was only three years long.
How much does a general dentist make in Ohio?
As of 2021, the average dentist income in Ohio was $180,920 ($86.98 per hour), however, salaries frequently ranged from $127,810 to more than $208,000. Salary ranges for dentists can vary significantly based on a number of crucial aspects, including schooling, certifications, supplementary abilities, and years of experience.
Is dental school Hard?
The admissions procedure for dental schools is competitive and getting harder every year. The average GPAs and DAT scores of qualified applicants are rising along with the number of dental schools.
Is Ohio State a good dental school?
The Ohio State University is renowned across the world for academic brilliance and ground-breaking research, and it is ranked 16th among the top public universities in the country by US News & World Report.
How do I get into OSU dental school?
You must complete a few extremely critical tasks well before the application procedure.
- The prerequisite courses must be completed. Essential Courses.
- Set high standards for your academic performance.
- Attain the required GPA and DAT scores.
- Attempt the dental admissions test (DAT)
- Complete at least 40 hours of observation.
Is dental school harder than medical school?
The courses and disciplines at both universities are equally challenging. Practical courses are offered by the dentistry school much earlier in the educational process.
During the first two years of medical school, only classroom instruction is provided.
What GPA do dental schools look at?
The average GPA for candidates accepted to dentistry schools varies only slightly from year to year. A 3.55 cumulative GPA and 3.45 science GPA have just been reported.
What is the average DAT score for dental school?
Note that the average GPA and DAT (AA) score for applicants accepted to dental schools in 2020 were both 20.2 and 3.55, respectively.
Does Cincinnati have a dental school?
The University of Cincinnati Medical Center’s Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program is a one-year educational program that is the only general dentistry residency program in the Greater Cincinnati area.
Does OU have a dental program?
The University of Oklahoma’s College of Dentistry provides students with a cutting-edge education in one of the highest-paying professions in the country, including training in both traditional dental health practices and restorative dentistry.
How long is a semester at OSU?
Autumn and Spring semesters are divided into three parts: a 14-week semester and two 7-week sessions (session 1 and session 2).
Is being a dentist easier than a doctor?
Dentists typically have less rigorous job loads than physicians. While their schedules may have been modified to accommodate the demands of their patients, most dentists may expect to work conventional business hours and achieve quite high levels of work-life balance.
Do you have to take the MCAT to go to dental school?
Many standardized tests are required in the application procedure for various health professions. The MCAT is required for medical schools (MD, DO, and some overseas programs). The DAT is required for dental schools.
Some veterinary medicine schools need the GRE, while others accept the MCAT.