Missouri offers diverse educational pathways for aspiring dental professionals. Whether you’re aiming to become a licensed dentist, dental hygienist, or assistant, the state provides a variety of programs that blend strong academics with hands-on clinical training. From top-ranked DDS and DMD programs to fast-track dental hygiene and assisting certifications, Missouri’s dental education landscape is both accessible and high-quality.
In this guide, we cover leading dental schools in Missouri, key program details, admission insights, and how Code Blue Essays can support your application with services like Dental School Personal Statement Editing, Secondary Essay Editing, and Dental School Application Review.
University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) School of Dentistry
The UMKC School of Dentistry, founded in 1881, is the only public dental school in Missouri and plays a key role in training dentists across the Midwest. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree that blends biomedical science education with early clinical exposure. UMKC is known for its large on-site clinics that provide dental services to thousands of patients each year, giving students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. The school also offers postdoctoral training and dual-degree programs such as DDS/MPH.
Admission to UMKC is competitive, with successful applicants typically presenting GPAs above 3.5 and DAT scores of 20 or higher. Strong letters of recommendation, meaningful shadowing experience, and a compelling personal statement are also important. The program emphasizes diversity, community outreach, and leadership in oral healthcare. In-state tuition rates make UMKC a particularly attractive choice for Missouri residents seeking high-quality dental education at a lower cost.
A.T. Still University – Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH)
A.T. Still University’s Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH) in Kirksville offers a unique Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program that integrates public health principles into traditional dental education. Students spend their first two years on campus studying dental science and developing skills in simulation labs. For their final two years, they relocate to community health centers across the U.S., where they treat underserved populations under professional supervision.
The school offers a dual DMD/MPH degree, ideal for students interested in addressing healthcare disparities. Applicants are evaluated holistically — strong academics and DAT scores are important, but ATSU places special value on service-minded applicants with community outreach or leadership experience. The curriculum’s public health focus equips graduates not just as skilled clinicians, but as advocates for accessible, community-based dental care.
Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) – Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
Located in Joplin, Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) offers a respected Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program accredited by CODA. The four-year curriculum covers oral anatomy, periodontology, pharmacology, and clinical dental hygiene practices. Students begin patient care early in the on-campus Dental Hygiene Clinic, developing critical hands-on skills under faculty supervision.
The program has high first-time pass rates on the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), preparing graduates to become licensed Registered Dental Hygienists (RDHs). Admission is selective and includes prerequisite coursework, interviews, and a review of academic performance. MSSU is ideal for students seeking a full university experience alongside practical dental training in a supportive learning environment.
State Fair Community College (SFCC) – Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene
State Fair Community College (SFCC) in Sedalia offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Hygiene, providing a fast, affordable route to becoming a licensed RDH. Students learn through classroom instruction and supervised clinical training at SFCC’s dental clinic, with additional rotations in community settings. Coursework includes radiology, periodontics, patient education, and dental materials.
The program is fully accredited by CODA and prepares students for national and regional licensing exams. Admission is competitive, requiring completion of prerequisites, letters of recommendation, and an interview. With lower tuition costs and a quicker pathway to employment, SFCC appeals to students looking for a practical and budget-friendly option in the dental field.
Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) – Dental Assisting Certificate Program
Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) in Springfield offers a one-year Dental Assisting Certificate for students aiming to enter the dental workforce quickly. The curriculum includes chairside assisting, radiology, infection control, dental materials, and front-office skills. Students also complete externships at local dental offices, gaining practical experience that enhances job readiness.
The program is accredited by CODA and prepares graduates to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams, enabling them to become Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) or Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) in Missouri. OTC’s focused, hands-on training and short duration make it ideal for those seeking rapid entry into a dental support role.
Public Dental Health Initiatives in Missouri
Missouri’s dental schools are heavily involved in public dental health initiatives. UMKC, for example, runs community dental clinics across Kansas City, offering care to underserved populations while providing students with critical hands-on experience. ATSU Missouri places students in Community Health Centers across the country for their clinical years, further reinforcing their mission to serve the underserved.
Organizations like the Missouri Dental Association (MDA) and Missouri Department of Health also run outreach programs focused on rural and low-income communities. Students at various programs often participate in free dental days, school screenings, and mobile dental units, gaining valuable public service experience.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Dental School in Missouri
Gaining admission to a dental program in Missouri whether at UMKC or ATSU requires more than just good grades. Successful applicants prepare strategically, highlight their strengths, and demonstrate a strong commitment to the dental profession. Here’s how you can increase your chances of acceptance.
1. Excel Academically
Your academic record is one of the first things admissions committees evaluate. For DDS or DMD programs like those at UMKC and ATSU, a science GPA of 3.5 or higher is considered competitive. Prioritize coursework in biology, chemistry, and anatomy, and aim for high grades. Even for dental hygiene and assisting programs, a solid academic foundation in relevant prerequisites is essential. Keep in mind that repeated low grades or unfinished prerequisites can be red flags.
2. Score Well on the DAT
The Dental Admission Test (DAT) plays a crucial role in dental school admissions. Aim for a composite score of 19–21 or higher to remain competitive. Invest in structured DAT prep courses, practice exams, and review guides to strengthen your performance. Schools like UMKC consider DAT scores alongside GPA, so a strong score can balance a slightly lower GPA.
3. Gain Meaningful Clinical Exposure
Hands-on experience is a must. Shadowing a dentist, working in a dental office, or volunteering at free dental clinics shows admissions committees that you understand the profession and are serious about your goals. Aim for at least 100–150 hours of dental shadowing, and diversify your exposure across general practice and specialties like oral surgery or pediatric dentistry.
4. Write a Powerful Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to tell your story, explain your motivation for becoming a dentist, and highlight your values and goals. Make it honest, engaging, and free of clichés. Focus on what led you to dentistry and how your experiences have shaped your path.
For a polished and persuasive essay, consider using Dental School Personal Statement Editing from Code Blue Essays.
5. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation
Select recommenders who know you well and can speak about your academic skills, character, and suitability for a career in dentistry. Ideal choices include science professors, supervisors from volunteer work, or licensed dentists you’ve shadowed. UMKC, for example, expects two to three strong letters, ideally including one from a dentist.
6. Be Interview-Ready
Many Missouri dental programs, especially DDS/DMD schools, use traditional or multiple mini-interview (MMI) formats to assess candidates. Practice speaking clearly about your experiences, ethical dilemmas, and problem-solving approaches. Demonstrating empathy, professionalism, and critical thinking is key.
7. Demonstrate a Commitment to Service
Schools like ATSU prioritize applicants who show a clear desire to work with underserved populations. Volunteering in community health clinics, organizing oral health awareness drives, or participating in mobile dental outreach can give you an edge. Highlight these experiences in your application.
8. Get a Full Application Review Before You Submit
Even strong applicants can miss small details that hurt their chances. Typos, unclear responses, or overlooked instructions can delay or derail your application.
Use Code Blue Essays Dental School Application Review to identify weaknesses and polish your entire submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many dental schools in Missouri offer DDS or DMD degrees?
Two: the University of Missouri-Kansas City (DDS) and A.T. Still University Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health (DMD).
Can I study dental hygiene in Missouri?
Yes. Schools like Missouri Southern State University and State Fair Community College offer CODA-accredited dental hygiene programs leading to licensure as RDHs.
How competitive is admission to UMKC’s DDS program?
Very competitive. Successful applicants usually have GPAs above 3.5, strong DAT scores, significant shadowing experience, and well-crafted personal statements.
Are there fast pathways into the dental profession in Missouri?
Yes. Dental assisting programs like those at Ozarks Technical Community College allow students to enter the dental workforce in as little as one year.
Conclusion
Missouri provides diverse opportunities for students pursuing dental careers, from prestigious DDS and DMD programs to specialized dental hygiene and assisting training. Whether you aim to become a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant, choosing the right dental school in Missouri is critical to building a successful future.
Programs like those at UMKC and ATSU Missouri prepare students for clinical excellence and community leadership. Meanwhile, community colleges across the state offer affordable, high-quality training for hygienists and assistants.
Careful academic preparation, clinical exposure, and a strong application supported by services like those from Code Blue Essays will help you take the next step confidently toward your dental career.