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Many people only look for a dentist when something already hurts. If you have just moved, it is worth finding one while you are still pain-free.
Some steps that tend to help:
- Ask your insurance company (or check its online directory) for in-network general dentists near your new address.
- Ask neighbors, coworkers or your previous dentist for referrals.
- Request your records and recent X-rays from your previous office so the new dentist does not have to repeat them unnecessarily.
- Book a routine exam and cleaning so you have an established office if an emergency comes up later.
- Check the state dental board’s license lookup for the dentist you choose.
You can search our directory of dentists by state and city to see which practices are near you.
If you are looking for a dentist in a specific city, reply with the city and what you need (for example, a family dentist, weekend hours or a specialist) and the community can share ideas.
A short checklist for finding a dentist after a move:
- Request your records from your previous dentist, including recent X-rays, before or soon after you move. Offices can usually send them electronically.
- Check your coverage. If you changed jobs or plans, look up the new network and note your waiting periods and annual maximum. The dental insurance glossary explains these terms.
- Shortlist a few offices using our dentists near me directory, then call to ask about new-patient availability, hours and how they handle emergencies.
- Book a checkup soon, before anything hurts. New-patient appointments can take a while to get, and it’s much easier to get urgent care from an office that already knows you.
- Look into options if you’re on Medicaid. Coverage rules differ by state, so check your new state’s program and use the Medicaid dentist finder.
Older adults moving to a new area may also want to read our guide to dental coverage for seniors.
General education only, not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Please see a licensed dentist about your own situation. For a medical emergency (trouble breathing or swallowing, heavy bleeding, a major injury or rapidly spreading swelling), call 911 or go to the nearest ER.
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