As one segment of a larger study of the barriers faced by women in the schools of eight health professions, the study on dentistry had as its central purpose the identification of any characteristics of the profession that affect the role and status of women in dentistry and in dental schools. Information was gathered through interviews with administrators, faculty, and students of the schools. From this information and from statistical and historical data are drawn the report's three principal components: (l) an overview of the profession's history, work focus, and organization, and the role and status of women within it; (2) a set of recommendations addressing the unique problems faced by women, that can best be dealt with by the schools or the professional associations; and (3) extensive use of direct quotes giving a vivid description of the barriers women applicants and students face in dental schools. Some statistical tables are included. (MSE)