Discover the Top Rated Dental Hospitals in the United States

Leading Dental Hospitals and Clinics in the United States

When dealing with complex dental issues, specialized surgeries, or conditions that require multidisciplinary care, a standard dental office may not be sufficient. This is where dental hospitals and university-affiliated dental schools excel. They offer access to a wide range of specialists, cutting-edge technology, and research-driven treatments. While there isn't a single, universally accepted ranking system like there is for general hospitals, several institutions are consistently recognized for their excellence in patient care, research, and dental education. Below are some of the top-rated dental hospitals and clinics across the country.

Mayo Clinic - Division of Dentistry

The Mayo Clinic, with major campuses in Rochester, Minnesota; Scottsdale/Phoenix, Arizona; and Jacksonville, Florida, is world-renowned for its integrated, multi-specialty approach to healthcare, and its dental division is no exception. The Division of Dentistry and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Mayo Clinic is not a typical dental office. It focuses on treating complex and serious conditions of the mouth, jaw, and face. Patients are often referred here for specialized care that intertwines with other medical needs, such as cancer treatment, organ transplants, or sleep apnea.

Their team includes specialists in prosthodontics, orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and dental oncology. This collaborative environment allows dentists and doctors to work together seamlessly to create comprehensive treatment plans for patients with unique medical histories. The emphasis is on solving challenging health problems, making it a top destination for diagnostic puzzles and intricate surgical procedures rather than routine cleanings or fillings.

UCLA School of Dentistry

As one of the premier dental schools in the nation, the UCLA School of Dentistry in Los Angeles, California, operates a vast network of patient clinics that function like a top-tier dental hospital. It provides a full spectrum of dental care, from general dentistry to highly specialized services. Patients can receive treatment from faculty experts, who are leaders in their fields, or from student dentists and residents under the close supervision of that faculty. This structure often makes high-quality care more accessible and affordable.

The school is a hub for innovation and research, meaning patients have access to the latest evidence-based treatments and technologies. Its clinics include specialized centers for orofacial pain, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and care for patients with special needs. The combination of comprehensive services, a commitment to research, and a teaching environment makes the UCLA School of Dentistry a top choice for both routine and complex dental needs.

University of Michigan School of Dentistry

Located in Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan School of Dentistry is consistently ranked among the best in the world. Its clinics offer an exceptionally broad range of services, covering more than a dozen specialties. Patients benefit from a patient-centered approach where treatment is tailored to individual needs. Like other university-based systems, care is delivered by student dentists, graduate residents, and world-class faculty practitioners.

The school is particularly noted for its research in areas like tissue engineering, cancer biology, and oral health disparities. This research-intensive environment translates into advanced clinical care. The hospital is equipped to handle everything from pediatric dentistry and orthodontics to complex oral surgeries and full-mouth reconstructions. Its commitment to community service, patient education, and scientific advancement solidifies its place as a leader in dental healthcare.

Cleveland Clinic - Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dentistry

The Cleveland Clinic is another globally recognized leader in healthcare, and its dental and surgical departments uphold that high standard. While it offers general dentistry services, its primary strength lies in specialized and hospital-based dental care. The Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is particularly distinguished, handling complex procedures such as corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery), facial trauma reconstruction, and treatment for oral cancers.

The clinic’s approach is highly collaborative, integrating dental care with other medical specialties to manage the oral health of patients with complex conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. They also have a robust dental oncology program that provides essential care for patients before, during, and after cancer therapy. This focus on medically complex patients makes the Cleveland Clinic a critical resource for those whose dental health is intertwined with their overall systemic health.

Penn Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

Located in Philadelphia, Penn Dental Medicine is known for its history of innovation and clinical excellence. It operates a variety of clinics that provide a diverse array of dental services to the public. The main clinic, the Robert Schattner Center, offers comprehensive care provided by students, while specialty clinics focus on orthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, and oral surgery, staffed by postgraduate residents and faculty. This allows patients to choose a level of care that fits their budget and needs.

One of the unique aspects of Penn Dental Medicine is its advanced specialty clinics, including the Care Center for Persons with Disabilities, which is specially designed to accommodate the needs of individuals with physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges. This commitment to accessibility and specialized care, combined with its strong academic and research programs, makes Penn Dental a top-tier institution for comprehensive oral healthcare.