Best Dental Schools in Florida 2024 | All You Need to Know

Best Dental Schools in Florida: Even in Jacksonville and South Florida, you can find a list of schools accredited by CODA to study dentistry.

Getting a quality education is the most essential part of becoming a dentist. 

Because dentistry is a professional course, you have to enroll and be trained by accredited schools that offer dental programs in Florida.

Florida is home to some of the best schools in the USA, making it an excellent place to study.

We have detailed in this piece the list of dental schools that are accredited and approved to train students to become a dentist in Florida.

Because the list is few, admission into any of these dental schools is unusually competitive, with the highest acceptance being a mere 5.8%. 

Whatever the case, you will get the best education if you make it in.

Without further ado, let’s get started.

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Studying Dentistry in Florida

Florida is home to some of the best schools in America, including dentistry. 

Over the years, Florida has stayed among the top 5 states for education in the U.S. 

And according to U.S. News 2022 ranking, Florida is the third-best state for education in the U.S.

With a good curriculum and dental programs, Florida draws many prospective students locally and internationally. 

Florida dental schools are awarded D.D.S. or D.M.D degrees in dentistry. 

Some of the schools you will find below offer advanced dental education programs and continuing education programs.

All you have to do is make a pick according to your educational needs.

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Are There Schools of Dentistry in Florida?

There are dental schools in Florida, some you find in Jacksonville and others in South Florida.

These schools focus on training you to become professional dentists through dental research and clinical.

At the end of the dental program, all students can get a hands-on education, preparing them to become licensed dental practitioners.

Below, you will find a list of accredited dental schools in Florida.

What Courses Will I Study in Florida Dental Schools?

As we stated earlier, the course: dentistry cuts across many areas and specializations.

Before you decide to enroll in any of Florida-accredited dental schools in Jacksonville or in South Tennessee, you should have known what path of the dental professional you want to specialize in.

Knowing what path to take in dentistry will help you choose a school tailored to your academic and career needs. 

Here are some of the career paths in dentistry you should know before you specialize;

  • Endodontics
  • Periodontics
  • Prosthodontics
  • Dental Hygiene
  • Dental Assisting
  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Dental Public Health.
  • Dental Anesthesiology
  • Oral Medicine Dentistry
  • Orofacial Pain Dentistry
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
  • Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedic
  • Advanced Education in General Dentistry.

What are the Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Dental Schools in Florida?

Before choosing a dental school, you must know what you seek.

If the schools in Florida cannot offer you what you need, you can apply to other dental schools in other states of the US.

So, to assist you in making an informed decision, we have compiled a few pieces of information that will serve as a reference while selecting a dental school.

Here are some things to think about when looking for dental schools in Jacksonville or South Florida;

#1. Dentistry Program Offered

Most dental schools offer bachelor’s degrees at the undergraduate level and a doctorate program at an advanced level.

There are also certificate programs in dentistry that serve as an alternative to diploma and degree programs in dentistry.

So, you must determine what degree the school offers and if that suits your academic needs.

#2. School Academic Reputation

You should look out for a school that is in good academic standing over the years.

When it comes to selecting colleges, a high academic reputation is a crucial thing to consider.

You can judge a school’s reputation from rankings and its ability to deliver an excellent education that prepares you for your job.

Therefore, you have to check through the years what the school represents in dentistry. 

Also, you can read the alumni reviews. 

#3. Tuition Cost Of Dental Program

The tuition costs of dental schools should be the first thing in consideration when selecting a school from the list of dental schools in Florida.

You should know how much it will cost you to attend dental school from beginning to completion.

#4. Duration of Dental Program 

As we have earlier stated, dentistry programs last 8- years, with 4-years  earning a bachelor’s degree as an undergraduate and 4 years earning a DDS or DMD in dentistry schools.

This is a crucial consideration when selecting a school for dental training because it also impacts how much you can spend on tuition.

Must I Attend an Accredited Dental School in Florida?

Most definitely, if you attend a school that is not accredited, your years of education will be a waste.

Before you choose a dental school to attend in Florida, ensure it is accredited.

The Commission on Dental Association (CODA) is the accrediting agency for dental schools in America, which includes those in Florida.

Either of the following accreditation board must handle accreditation for dental schools in Florida;

Florida Licensure Examinations for Dental Students

  • Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)
  • Joint Commission on National Dental Examination (JCNDE)

Therefore, if you wish to study any dental or dental-related program in Florida, check if the schools are accredited by CODA or any of the accreditation lists above, which are extensions.

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What are the Requirements Needed for Dental Schools in Florida?

Each dental school or dental program has its admission requirements.

However, some requirements suit all dental schools in South Florida, Jacksonville or other parts of Florida.

Most dental schools in Florida requires the following:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Health Science program (preferably a medicine program).
  • High grades in prerequisite science courses: biology, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and physics
  • Dental Admission Test (DAT) Scores.

Best Dental Schools in Florida in 2023

Well, let’s get you started on the best schools of dentistry in Florida in 2023. 

Here is the list of the best schools in accredited dental schools in Jacksonville, South Florida, and other parts of the state;

#1. University of Florida College of Dentistry

  • Founded: 1972
  • School Type: Public
  • Acceptance Rate: 5.8%
  • Location: Gainesville, Florida

The University of Florida (UF) is an accredited dental school in Florida.

At the University of Florida, students focus more on research, patient care, and community service, making it one of the best public universities in America.

Also, informatively, the University of Florida College of Dentistry is the only publicly-funded dental school in Florida. UF College of Dentistry is a national leader in dental education, and research,.

When it comes to dentistry, the University of Florida College of Dentistry offers up to 16 degree and certificate programs

Dental Courses And Programs Offered in the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

  • Endodontics
  • Orthodontics
  • Periodontics.
  • Prosthodontics.
  • Pediatric Dentistry.
  • DMD/Ph.D. dual program
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Operative and Esthetic Dentistry.
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology.
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
  • Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD).
  • Advanced education in General Dentistry.

#2. Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine

  • Founded: 1964
  • School Type: Private
  • Acceptance Rate: 3.7%
  • Location: Davie, Florida.

In the Florida dental schools list, Nova Southeastern University is one of the best.

Nova Southeastern University is a private research university whose Dental Medicine program is the first dental college established in Florida.

Packed with many great courses, Nova Southeastern University has one of the best dental program curriculums in Florida.

Dental Courses And Programs Offered in the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine.

  • Endodontics
  • Orthodontics.
  • Periodontology.
  • Pediatric Dentistry.
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD).
  • Advanced Education in General Dentistry.
  • Advanced Speciality Program in Prosthodontics.

In addition, Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine offers continuing education programs recognized by ADA CERP.

#3. Florida National University (FNU)

  • Founded: 1982
  • School Type: Private
  • Location: Hialeah, Florida. 

Florida National University is one of the best in the list of dental schools in Florida.

Good thing that you can study at Florida National University from 3 different locations plus an online learning option.

You can undertake undergraduate and continuing dental education programs at Florida National University.

Dental Courses And Programs Offered in the Florida National University

  • Dental Assistant.
  • Dental Hygiene, A.S.
  • The Dental Laboratory Technology, A.S., C.E.D,  Full and Partial Dentures, C.E.D and Crown and Bridge and Porcelain, C.E.D.

#4. Gulf Coast State University (GCSC)

  • Founded: 1964
  • School Type: Public
  • Location: Panama City, Florida. 

Gulf Coast State University is part of the Florida College System, offering 3 dental programs.

Dental Courses And Programs Offered at Gulf Coast State University

  • Dental Assisting, V.C.
  • The Dental Hygiene, A.S.
  • Dental Medicine Option, Liberal Arts, A.A.

#5. LECOM School of Dental Medicine 

  • Founded: 1964
  • School Type: Public
  • Acceptance Rate: 3%
  • Location: Bradenton, FL

In the list of the best schools for dental programs in South Florida, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Dental Medicine makes it the list. 

LECOM School of Dental Medicine has an excellent reputation for its innovative, student-centered approach to education. 

Besides Florida, the school also operates in Pennsylvania.

LECOM dental students work under the supervision of some of the best-licensed practitioners in the field. 

Student learning is enhanced by using the patient-simulation clinic and a fourth-year program centered on providing community care at full-service clinics in Florida. 

Florida Licensure Examinations for Dental Students

Graduates of unaccredited dental schools may be unable to sit for licensure examinations.

Licensure examinations are a must in Florida if you’re going to practice.

After the successful completion of any dental program, the next step is to sit for the licensure examinations accepted in Florida.

The approved licensure examination in Florida for dental students is administered by:

  • ADEX Dental Exams
  • Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)
  • Joint Commission on National Dental Examination (JCNDE)

ALSO READ: Best Dental Schools in Tennessee

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Dental Schools in Florida in 2023

How Many Years Does It Take To Become A Dentist In Florida?

It generally takes eight years to become a Dentist: four years to earn a bachelor’s degree and four years to earn a D.M.D or D.D.S degree.

What is the Cost Of Dental School in Florida?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the average cost of dental school in the first year was $55,521 for residents and $71,916 for non-residents.
This includes tuition and mandatory general fees.

How Much Do Dentists Earn in Florida?

According to indeed.com, the average salary for a dentist is $148,631 per year in Florida.

Where Can I Work as a Dentist?

Graduates of dental schools can work in hospitals, nursing homes, and public health clinics.
Some go on to have a private clinic.

What’s DAT in Dental School? Must I Write it?

The Dental Admission Test (abbreviated DAT) is a multiple-choice standardized exam given by prospective dental students to gain admission to dental universities.

So yes, you must write the DAT exam if you are going to gain admission into a dental school in Florida.

Conclusion

Dentistry has a good job outlook.. 

This is the best time to join the moving train to become a dentist.

But first, you have to choose the best schools that offer courses accredited by CODA to enroll and study to become a dental professional.

The dental schools in Florida we have listed above is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to train you effectively.

We wish you all the best in your search.

References

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