236,167
Dentists
100%
Accepting patients
70%
Most common: DDS
FindClarity lists 236,167 dentists nationwide. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is DDS (70%).
A general dentist handles the day-to-day health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. They perform cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, and screenings for oral cancer. Most people should see a dentist twice a year for preventive checkups.
General dentists earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree after four years of dental school following an undergraduate degree. Many also complete additional training in cosmetic or restorative procedures. Your general dentist is usually your first point of contact for any dental concern and will refer you to a specialist if needed.
Think of your dentist as the primary care doctor for your mouth. They keep a long-term record of your oral health, track changes over time, and catch problems before they become painful or expensive to fix.
Schedule a visit if you have tooth pain, bleeding gums, sensitivity to hot or cold, or a chipped or broken tooth. Even without symptoms, routine checkups every six months help catch cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer early when treatment is simpler and cheaper.
A first visit typically includes a full set of X-rays, a comprehensive exam of your teeth and gums, and an oral cancer screening. The dentist will review your medical history, discuss any concerns, and create a treatment plan. A professional cleaning is usually done the same day or scheduled shortly after.
Cleaning: $75-200 · Filling: $150-400 · Crown: $800-1,500 · Root canal: $700-1,200
Most adults should go every six months for a checkup and cleaning. If you have gum disease, a history of cavities, or a weakened immune system, your dentist may recommend visits every three to four months. Children should start dental visits by their first birthday or when the first tooth comes in.
Nothing, practically speaking. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery and DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Both degrees require the same coursework and clinical training. The distinction is historical. Different dental schools award different titles, but they are equivalent in every state.
Modern digital X-rays use very low doses of radiation. A full set of dental X-rays delivers roughly the same radiation you receive from a day of normal background exposure. The diagnostic benefit of catching cavities, infections, or bone loss early far outweighs the minimal risk.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth appearing. Early visits establish a dental home, help prevent cavities, and get children comfortable with the office before any treatment is needed.
Call your dentist immediately. For a knocked-out permanent tooth, keep it moist (in milk or between your cheek and gum) and get to a dentist within 30 minutes. For severe pain or swelling, an emergency dental visit or ER trip may be necessary. Many dentists reserve time for same-day emergencies.
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Most dental plans cover two preventive visits per year at 100%. Basic procedures like fillings are typically covered at 70-80%, while major work like crowns may be 50%. Check your plan's annual maximum. Many plans cap at $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Confirm your dentist is in-network before your visit.