Dentist
122,296 Dentist providers across the U.S.
Dentists look after the day-to-day health of your teeth and gums — cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and catching small problems before they turn painful and expensive. Carenary lists 122,296 dentists across the United States. Browse by city to find one nearby, then call to check they're taking new patients and accept your insurance.
What is a Dentist?
A dentist is a person qualified by a doctorate in dental surgery (D.D.S.) or dental medicine (D.M.D.), licensed by the state to practice dentistry, and practicing within the scope of that license. There is no difference between the two degrees: dentists who have a DMD or DDS have the same education. Universities have the prerogative to determine what degree is awarded. Both degrees use the same curriculum requirements set by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation. Generally, three or more years of undergraduate education plus four years of dental school is required to graduate and become a general dentist. State licensing boards accept either degree as equivalent, and both degrees allow licensed individuals to practice the same scope of general dentistry. Additional post-graduate training is required to become a dental specialist.
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Dentist providers
How to choose a Dentist
- Verify the NPIEvery listing shows a National Provider Identifier you can confirm on the official CMS registry.
- Check they're accepting patientsCall ahead to confirm availability and whether they take new patients.
- Confirm insuranceAsk whether they're in-network for your plan before you schedule.
- Consider location & hoursUse the map and address on each profile to find a convenient option.
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Frequently asked questions
What does a Dentist do?
A dentist is a person qualified by a doctorate in dental surgery (D.D.S.) or dental medicine (D.M.D.), licensed by the state to practice dentistry, and practicing within the scope of that license. There is no difference between the two degrees: dentists who have a DMD or DDS have the same education. Universities have the prerogative to determine what degree is awarded. Both degrees use the same curriculum requirements set by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation. Generally, three or more years of undergraduate education plus four years of dental school is required to graduate and become a general dentist. State licensing boards accept either degree as equivalent, and both degrees allow licensed individuals to practice the same scope of general dentistry. Additional post-graduate training is required to become a dental specialist.
How many Dentist providers are there in the United States?
Carenary lists 122,296 Dentist providers nationwide, sourced from the official CMS NPPES NPI Registry. You can browse them by state and city to find one near you.
How do I verify a Dentist's credentials?
Every listing on Carenary includes the provider's National Provider Identifier (NPI) from the official CMS registry. Confirm any provider's record at the NPI Registry (npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov), and verify state licensure with the relevant licensing board before scheduling care.
Does Carenary show Dentist ratings or reviews?
No. Carenary is a free directory built on official government data and does not host patient reviews or star ratings. We focus on accurate, verifiable contact and credential information so you can reach providers directly.