Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, founded in 1953, is a private Seventh-day Adventist dental school located in Loma Linda, California. Known for its whole-person health philosophy, global health mission, and strong specialty programs, Loma Linda Dentistry trains dentists with a dual emphasis on clinical excellence and humanitarian service. The school has one of the most active international dental mission programs of any US dental school, sending student teams to underserved communities globally. Loma Linda's Inland Empire location provides access to a large, diverse patient population.
What makes it different
Applications via ADEA AADSAS. Loma Linda's global dental mission program is among the most active of any US dental school. The whole-person health philosophy — treating patients physically, mentally, and spiritually — permeates the curriculum. The school's Seventh-day Adventist heritage influences campus culture, including a vegetarian cafeteria and a Sabbath-observant campus schedule.
Course & teaching
Integrated curriculum. 4-year DDS curriculum integrating biomedical sciences and clinical training within a whole-person health philosophy. Patient care begins in Year 2 at Loma Linda's on-campus dental clinics. International dental mission rotations available in Years 3–4 for students who wish to complete short-term global health service. Interprofessional education with Loma Linda's Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, and Allied Health.
Research strengths
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry (DDS) has notable research strength in Craniofacial biology, Dental biomaterials, Global oral health, Oral cancer prevention, Whole-person health.
Interview
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry (DDS) interviews via Traditional one-on-one or panel interview at Loma Linda, CA campus. Loma Linda University School of Dentistry conducts traditional faculty interviews at its Loma Linda, California campus, typically one or two sessions of 30–45 minutes. Interview day includes a campus tour and an opportunity to meet current dental students. Loma Linda is a Seventh-day Adventist institution and interviewers place strong emphasis on whole-person health values, mission service orientation, and global oral health engagement. The school's Christian faith tradition is central to its ethos — while applicants of all faiths are welcomed, demonstrating alignment with its values of service, compassionate care, and global health mission is important for a strong interview performance.
Intake
Approximately 80–100 students per year.
At a glance
Founded in 1953, based in Loma Linda, CA. Programmes offered: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Periodontics, Prosthodontics, General Practice Residency.
