CustomersPricingEnterprise
Get startedLog in

How to hire a Dentist

Your dentist is responsible for your oral health, which has a direct impact on your overall health. Whether you need a new family dentist, a specialist for a specific procedure, or a cosmetic dentist, finding the right one ensures quality care, fair pricing, and a comfortable experience.

$75 to $350

per cleaning/exam

10 steps

Full hiring checklist

8 red flags

Warning signs to catch

The hiring checklist.

Work through these before you hire any dentist. Skip a step and it's usually the one that comes back to bite you.

  1. 01

    Verify their license and credentials

    Check your state's dental board to confirm the dentist holds an active license. Look for DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry).

  2. 02

    Check for board certification

    While not required, dentists who are board-certified by the American Board of General Dentistry have demonstrated advanced competency.

  3. 03

    Verify insurance acceptance

    Confirm the dentist is in-network with your dental insurance plan. Ask about their fee schedule for uninsured patients.

  4. 04

    Ask about their technology

    Modern dental practices use digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and CAD/CAM technology. These improve diagnosis accuracy and patient comfort.

  5. 05

    Read patient reviews

    Look for reviews mentioning gentle technique, clear explanations, minimal wait times, and honest treatment recommendations.

  6. 06

    Visit the office

    A clean, well-organized, modern office reflects the quality of care. Check that sterilization practices are visible and thorough.

  7. 07

    Ask about emergency availability

    Dental emergencies do not wait for business hours. Ask if the practice offers after-hours emergency care or referrals.

  8. 08

    Discuss your dental history and concerns

    A good dentist listens to your concerns, reviews your dental history, and creates a personalized treatment plan.

  9. 09

    Ask about sedation options

    If you have dental anxiety, ask about nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation options.

  10. 10

    Evaluate the staff

    Friendly, knowledgeable front-desk and hygienist staff make the experience significantly better.

Red flags to watch for.

Any one of these should give you pause. Two or more, and it's time to walk away.

  • Recommends extensive treatment without thorough examination
  • Pushes cosmetic procedures you did not ask about
  • Office feels unclean or disorganized
  • Uses outdated equipment and does not take digital X-rays
  • Dismisses your concerns or pain
  • Unclear pricing or surprise charges after treatment
  • High staff turnover (new faces every visit)
  • Does not explain procedures or treatment options

Questions to ask first.

Ask these before you sign anything. The answers tell you fast who knows the work and who's improvising.

  1. 01What insurance plans do you accept?
  2. 02What does a routine cleaning and exam cost for uninsured patients?
  3. 03Do you offer payment plans for major procedures?
  4. 04What sedation options are available for anxious patients?
  5. 05What technology do you use for exams and procedures?
  6. 06Do you handle emergencies after hours?
  7. 07What continuing education do you pursue?
  8. 08Do you specialize in any particular areas of dentistry?

What to verify.

Confirm every one of these in writing before you sign a contract with any dentist.

  • State dental license (DDS or DMD, active status)
  • Board certification (preferred)
  • DEA registration (for prescribing medications)
  • Insurance network participation
  • Continuing education compliance
  • Patient reviews and ratings

Average cost

$75 to $350

per cleaning/exam

Prices swing with location, project complexity, and the dentist's experience. Always get multiple written estimates and compare them line by line, not just on the bottom number, before you decide.

Find licensed dentists near you.

Browse verified listings with ratings, reviews, and licensing details in the free Vemra directory, then request quotes from the ones you've vetted.

Search dentists

Common questions.

How much does a dental visit cost without insurance?
A routine cleaning and exam without insurance costs $75 to $200. X-rays add $25 to $150. A comprehensive first visit with full X-rays runs $200 to $350. Many dental offices offer discount plans for uninsured patients that reduce costs by 15% to 40%.
How do I find a good dentist near me?
Start by checking our directory for dentists in your area with high ratings and positive reviews. Ask friends, family, and your primary care doctor for recommendations. Look for dentists who use modern technology, explain treatment options clearly, and have a clean, organized office.
How often should I go to the dentist?
Most adults should visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. Patients with gum disease, a history of frequent cavities, or certain health conditions may need visits every three to four months. Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your individual needs.
What should I look for in a family dentist?
A good family dentist treats patients of all ages, from children to seniors. Look for a practice that offers a wide range of services, has a child-friendly environment, accommodates multiple family members in one visit, and has flexible scheduling including early morning or evening appointments.

Related hiring guides

How to hire a General Contractor

$50 to $150 per square foot

How to hire a Plumber

$150 to $500 per job (typical repair)

How to hire a Electrician

$200 to $800 per job (typical project)

How to hire a Roofer

$5000 to $15000 per roof replacement

How to hire a HVAC Technician

$3000 to $12000 per system installation

How to hire a Painter

$2 to $6 per square foot