Dental care in the United States is provided by dental schools, academic medical centers, specialized dental hospitals, and healthcare systems. These centers may provide general dentistry, oral surgery, dental implants, orthodontics, periodontal care, and other specialized services.

This guide highlights 10 major dental care centers in the United States that patients and families may want to research when looking for specialized dental services. This is an informational guide, not an official ranking or medical recommendation.

Choosing a dental care center depends on the patient's condition, treatment needs, specialist availability, location, insurance coverage, and access to appropriate diagnostic and treatment services. Patients should verify current information directly with the dental center and speak with a qualified dental professional.

1. NYU College of Dentistry — New York, New York

NYU College of Dentistry provides comprehensive dental education, clinical care, and specialized dental services through an academic environment.

Patients may research services involving general dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and other dental specialties.

Location: New York, New York

Best known for: Academic and comprehensive dental care

2. Harvard School of Dental Medicine — Boston, Massachusetts

Harvard School of Dental Medicine provides dental education, research, and clinical services through an academic healthcare environment.

Patients can research current dental services and specialty programs involving oral health, restorative dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, and other areas.

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Best known for: Academic dentistry and research

3. UCLA School of Dentistry — Los Angeles, California

UCLA School of Dentistry provides dental education and clinical care through specialists working across multiple areas of dentistry.

Patients may research current services involving general dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, implants, periodontics, and restorative dental care.

Location: Los Angeles, California

Best known for: Comprehensive academic dental care

4. University of Michigan School of Dentistry — Ann Arbor, Michigan

The University of Michigan School of Dentistry provides dental education, research, and clinical services through an academic healthcare environment.

Patients can research current services involving restorative dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and other dental specialties.

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Best known for: Academic dentistry and specialized care

5. UCSF School of Dentistry — San Francisco, California

UCSF School of Dentistry provides dental education, research, and clinical services through a major academic medical environment.

Patients may research current dental programs involving general dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontal care, restorative dentistry, and other specialties.

Location: San Francisco, California

Best known for: Academic dental care and research

6. University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine provides dental education and clinical services through specialists across multiple dental disciplines.

Patients can research current programs involving restorative dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and other dental services.

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Best known for: Comprehensive academic dental care

7. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine — New York, New York

Columbia University College of Dental Medicine provides dental education, research, and clinical services through an academic healthcare setting.

Patients may research current services involving general dentistry, restorative care, oral surgery, orthodontics, and other dental specialties.

Location: New York, New York

Best known for: Academic dental medicine

8. Ohio State University College of Dentistry — Columbus, Ohio

Ohio State University College of Dentistry provides dental education, research, and patient care through a wide range of dental specialties.

Patients can research current services involving general dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and restorative care.

Location: Columbus, Ohio

Best known for: Comprehensive dental education and care

9. University of Washington School of Dentistry — Seattle, Washington

The University of Washington School of Dentistry provides dental education, research, and clinical services through an academic dental environment.

Patients may research current programs involving preventive dentistry, restorative care, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, and other dental specialties.

Location: Seattle, Washington

Best known for: Academic dental care and research

10. University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry — Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The UNC Adams School of Dentistry provides dental education, research, and clinical care through specialists working across multiple dental disciplines.

Patients can research current services involving general dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and other specialized dental care.

Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Best known for: Academic and comprehensive dental care

How to Choose a Dental Care Center

Choosing a dental care center should depend on your specific dental condition and treatment needs rather than simply selecting a center from a list.

• Experience treating your specific dental condition.
• Qualifications and experience of the dentist or specialist.
• Availability of appropriate diagnostic imaging.
• Experience with the recommended procedure.
• Availability of oral surgery or other specialists when needed.
• Access to follow-up and preventive dental care.
• Insurance coverage and expected costs.
• Location and travel requirements.

Questions to Ask a Dental Care Center

• Does the dentist regularly treat my condition?
• What diagnostic tests or dental imaging are needed?
• What treatment options are available?
• Would surgery or another procedure be necessary?
• What are the potential benefits and risks?
• How long might treatment take?
• What follow-up care will be required?
• Can I receive a second opinion?

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a dentist treat?

Dentists diagnose, prevent, and treat conditions affecting the teeth, gums, mouth, and related oral structures. Some dentists receive additional training in specialized areas of dental care.

When should someone see a dental specialist?

A dentist may recommend a specialist when a patient has a condition requiring specialized evaluation or treatment, such as complex oral surgery, orthodontic treatment, periodontal disease, or certain restorative procedures.

Is there one best dental hospital for everyone?

No. The most appropriate dental center depends on the patient's condition, treatment needs, specialist availability, location, insurance, and other individual circumstances.

Should I get a second opinion?

Patients may choose to seek a second opinion when making important decisions about complex dental procedures or treatment. A second opinion may provide additional information about available options.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment guidance, and it does not recommend any specific dental center or professional.

Dental services, professionals, treatment programs, locations, and availability may change over time. Always verify important information directly with the dental center and consult a qualified dental professional before making healthcare decisions.