DentalNPI
Specialty

General Dentists in the U.S.

Routine care, cleanings, fillings, and exams. Featuring 60 top-ranked providers across 25 states, classified under the general-dentist dental sub-specialty.

Verified · NPPES (CMS)refreshed May 7, 2026

National general dentist snapshot

Aggregates over 510 indexed general dentists in 51 states.

Indexed providersNPPES

510

Across 51 states.

Medicare-enrolledCMS

97%

496 of 510 have CMS enrollment on file.

HPSA-servingHRSA

24%

120 practice in HRSA-designated dental shortage areas.

Median MIPSCMS QPP

85/ 100

Interquartile range 77–97.

Calculated from 13 general dentists who report MIPS.

Methodology →
Avg practice locationsCMS

1.4

Mean across CMS provider enrollment records — oral surgeons trend higher because of multi-site privileges.

Avg hospital affiliationsNPPES

1.4

Mean affiliated hospitals per provider with ≥1 affiliation.

Median industry paymentOpen Payments

$952

Calculated over 473 general dentists with disclosures. Higher in implant/oral-surgery specialties — disclosure is normal under federal Sunshine Act.

Top states

Years in practice (graduation → today)

Among indexed general dentists with a graduation year on file. Shape signals whether the specialty skews early- career or established.

  • 0–99
  • 10–1924
  • 20–2918
  • 30–3924
  • 40+26

Browse general dentists by state

Featured providers

Sorted by content score

Showing the top 60 nationwide. For deeper lookups, pick a state above.

What is a general dentist?

A general dentist handles the everyday work most people associate with going to the dentist: cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, simple extractions, and crowns. Many general dentists also place implants, do basic root canals, and offer cosmetic work like whitening and veneers, though more complex cases are often referred to a specialist.

Training

Four years of dental school after a bachelor's degree, ending with a DDS or DMD (the two are equivalent). No formal residency is required to practice as a general dentist in most states, though some clinicians complete an optional one-year general practice residency (GPR) or AEGD program.

When to see one

  • Routine cleanings every 6 months and annual exams
  • A new cavity, sensitive tooth, or visible chip
  • A regular check-up before more complex specialist work
  • Fillings, crowns, and most extractions
  • Whitening, veneers, and other cosmetic procedures

Typical costs

Uninsured cash estimates from FAIR Health and ADA Health Policy Institute. Prices vary widely by region.

Adult cleaning + exam (no insurance)
$120–$300
Composite filling (one surface)
$150–$300
Crown
$1,000–$2,500
Simple extraction
$150–$350
Frequently asked

Questions about general dentists

  • How often should I see a general dentist?
    The ADA recommends a check-up and cleaning every six months for most adults. Some patients need more frequent visits if they have active gum disease or a high cavity risk; ask your dentist what cadence they recommend for you.
  • Can a general dentist do a root canal or place an implant?
    Many do. Comfort with these procedures varies — straightforward front-tooth root canals and single-implant cases are within scope for general dentists who pursue continuing education. Complex molar root canals are usually referred to an endodontist; complex implant cases are often referred to a periodontist or oral surgeon.
  • Does my general dentist need to be in my insurance network?
    Not always. PPO plans usually cover out-of-network providers at a lower percentage. HMO/DHMO plans require an in-network provider. Always ask the front desk to verify your specific plan benefits before treatment.
  • How do I find a Medicaid general dentist?
    Adult Medicaid dental coverage varies by state. Use your state's Medicaid provider finder, or filter our directory by Medicare enrollment as a proxy signal — providers who participate in one public program often participate in others.