How much does a dental checkup cost in Los Angeles?

A routine dental checkup in Los Angeles, California typically costs between $75 and $200 without insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive visits at 100%.

How often should I visit a general dentist?

The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings and exams. Some patients with gum disease or other conditions may need more frequent visits.

What does a general dentist do?

General dentists provide comprehensive oral care including cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, and preventive care. They also screen for oral cancer and refer to specialists when needed.

Does dental insurance cover general dentistry?

Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care (exams, cleanings, X-rays) at 80-100%. Basic procedures like fillings are typically covered at 70-80%, and major work at 50%.

What is the difference between a general dentist and a specialist?

General dentists provide comprehensive care for all ages. Specialists (orthodontists, endodontists, periodontists, etc.) focus on specific areas after completing additional training beyond dental school.

How do I find a good general dentist in Los Angeles?

Look for dentists with strong Google reviews, proper state licensure, modern technology, and transparent pricing. Our list evaluates all these factors for Los Angeles, California practices.

What should I expect at my first dental visit?

Your first visit typically includes a comprehensive exam, full-mouth X-rays, oral cancer screening, gum health assessment, and a professional cleaning. The dentist will discuss any findings and create a treatment plan.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes. Modern digital X-rays use very low radiation — about the same as a short airplane flight. They are essential for detecting cavities between teeth, bone loss, and other issues not visible during a visual exam.

What is a dental cleaning and why is it important?

A professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing miss. It helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular cleanings also allow early detection of dental problems.

Can a general dentist do cosmetic procedures?

Yes, many general dentists offer cosmetic services like teeth whitening, bonding, and veneers. However, for complex cosmetic work, you may want a dentist with specific cosmetic training.

What if I have dental anxiety?

Many Los Angeles dentists offer sedation options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and IV sedation. Look for practices that specifically advertise anxiety-free or sedation dentistry.

Do general dentists treat children?

Yes, most general dentists treat patients of all ages including children. However, pediatric dentists have additional training specifically for children and may be better for very young or anxious kids.

What are the signs I need to see a dentist urgently?

See a dentist immediately if you experience severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, significant bleeding, swelling in your face or gums, or a broken/cracked tooth.

How much do dental fillings cost in Los Angeles?

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings in Los Angeles typically cost $150 to $400 per tooth depending on size and location. Dental insurance usually covers 70-80% of filling costs.

What payment options do dentists in Los Angeles accept?

Most dental practices in Los Angeles accept major insurance plans, credit cards, and cash. Many also offer payment plans through CareCredit or in-house financing for larger treatments.

Is it normal for gums to bleed during brushing?

Occasional minor bleeding can occur, but regular bleeding is a sign of gum disease (gingivitis). See your dentist for an evaluation — early gum disease is reversible with proper treatment.

How long does a dental crown take?

Traditional crowns require two visits over 2-3 weeks. Same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology (like CEREC) can be completed in a single visit at practices that have this equipment.

What is deep cleaning and do I need one?

Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) removes bacteria below the gumline. It is recommended when you have gum disease with pockets deeper than 4mm. It typically costs $200-$400 per quadrant .

Can I switch dentists in the middle of treatment?

Yes, you can switch dentists at any time. Your previous dentist is required to transfer your records. However, switching mid-treatment may affect continuity of care and insurance coverage.

What are the best dental practices in Los Angeles for families?

Our list highlights Los Angeles practices that treat all ages, offer family scheduling, and provide a welcoming environment for children. Look for practices with extended hours and weekend availability.

Top 10 Best General Dentists in Los Angeles California (2026 Review)

Blue Pearl Dentistry

5.0(987)·12 km from Los Angeles Downtown

81Smyleee

#206, 1080, South La Cienega Boulevard, Central LA, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens Monday at 9 AM

Documented for dental implants in Los Angeles, with general dentistry on the service list and 28 procedures on file.

Read full description

Blue Pearl Dentistry is a multi-doctor general and implant practice in the Carthay/Mid-City area of Los Angeles. With over 30 years of combined experience across Dr. Robert S. Huang, Dr. Amna Hussain, Dr. Benjamin Rosenbaum, and Dr. Deborah Termeie, the practice provides dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, and comprehensive general care. With nearly 400 Yelp reviews and a 5.0 Google rating, Blue Pearl is one of the most reviewed dental practices in central LA.

Services:General DentistryBone GraftingBruxismChildren / Pediatric Dentistry+24 more

Offers General Dentistry5.0★ · 987 reviews

View profile Call bluepearldentistry.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry, 5.0★ Google rating across 987 verified reviews, and Smyleee Rating 81/100.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 5.0★ · 987 reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published28 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian, DDS

5.0(1.2k)·8.0 km from Los Angeles Downtown

79Smyleee

443, North Larchmont Boulevard, Larchmont, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens today at 8:30 AM

General Dentistry focus in Los Angeles, with general dentistry listed among 15 documented services.

More about general dentistry at this clinic

Kezian, DDS is a top-rated dental practice in Los Angeles providing comprehensive dental care including general dentistry, cosmetic treatments, and preventive services.

Services:General DentistryFamily Dental CareCAD/CAM Dental RestorationsCosmetic Dentistry+11 more

Offers General Dentistry5.0★ · 1.2k reviews

View profile Call drkezian.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry and 5.0★ Google rating across 1,205 verified reviews.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 5.0★ · 1.2k reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published15 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Playa District Dental

5.0(590)·16 km from Los Angeles Downtown

79Smyleee

UNIT 330, 6801, Park Terrace, Westchester, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens Monday at 9 AM

Los Angeles clinic with a general dentistry specialty — General Dentistry is on file among 12 procedures.

More about general dentistry at this clinic

Playa District Dental is a top-rated dental practice in Los Angeles providing comprehensive dental care including general dentistry, cosmetic treatments, and preventive services.

Services:General DentistryCosmetic DentistryDental CleaningDental Implants+8 more

Offers General Dentistry5.0★ · 590 reviews

View profile Call playadistrictdental.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry and 5.0★ Google rating across 590 verified reviews.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 5.0★ · 590 reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published12 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Happy Smiles

4.9(1.7k)·6.3 km from Los Angeles Downtown

79Smyleee

Suite C, 1655, South Western Avenue, Central LA, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens today at 9 AM

General Dentistry is the documented focus in Los Angeles; General Dentistry sits within 7 services on profile.

More about general dentistry at this clinic

Happy Smiles Dental LA is a top-rated dental practice in Los Angeles providing comprehensive dental care including general dentistry, cosmetic treatments, and preventive services.

Services:General DentistryChildren / Pediatric DentistryCosmetic DentistryDental Implants+3 more

Offers General Dentistry4.9★ · 1.7k reviews

View profile Call happysmilesla.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry and 4.9★ Google rating across 1,688 verified reviews.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 4.9★ · 1.7k reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published7 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Smile L.A. Downtown Modern Dentistry

4.8(745)·1.2 km from Los Angeles Downtown

78Smyleee

202, 523, West 6th Street, Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens Monday at 8 AM

Profile in Los Angeles flags general dentistry; lists General Dentistry alongside 16 other documented services.

More about general dentistry at this clinic

Downtown Modern Dentistry is a top-rated dental practice in Los Angeles providing comprehensive dental care including general dentistry, cosmetic treatments, and preventive services.

Services:General DentistryBracesCosmetic DentistryDental Fillings+13 more

Offers General Dentistry4.8★ · 745 reviews

View profile Call smilela.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry and 4.8★ Google rating across 745 verified reviews.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 4.8★ · 745 reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published17 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Larchmont Dental Associates

5.0(544)·8.1 km from Los Angeles Downtown

82Smyleee

581, North Larchmont Boulevard, Larchmont, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens Monday at 8 AM

Los Angeles practice known for dental implants, with General Dentistry among 10 documented procedures.

Read full description

Larchmont Dental Associates is a long-standing community dental practice in Larchmont Village, Los Angeles, led by Dr. Michael A. Kezian and Dr. Steven Kezian. The practice offers cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, oral surgery, and hospital dentistry. With a 5.0 Google rating and over 120 Yelp reviews, Larchmont Dental is known for multilingual care in English, Spanish, and Armenian, serving one of LA's most established neighborhoods.

Services:General DentistryCosmetic DentistryDental CrownsDental Fillings+6 more

Offers General Dentistry5.0★ · 544 reviews3 languages

View profile Call larchmontdentists.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry, 5.0★ Google rating across 544 verified reviews, and Smyleee Rating 82/100.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 5.0★ · 544 reviews · 3 languages

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published10 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Cosmetic Dental of Westwood

4.9(636)·18 km from Los Angeles Downtown

81Smyleee

460, 1762, Westwood Boulevard, Westwood, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens Monday at 8 AM

In Los Angeles, the 22-service catalog lists General Dentistry with Comprehensive Dental Care and Family Dental Care on file.

Read full description

Cosmetic Dental of Westwood is a cosmetic and implant dentistry practice in Westwood, Los Angeles, offering dental implants, porcelain veneers, Invisalign, laser dentistry, and complete smile makeovers. The multi-doctor team includes Dr. Sandra Shakibkhoo, Dr. Michelle Elihu, and Dr. Elnaz Hendifar. The practice is well-reviewed with a 4.9 Google rating and nearly 150 Yelp reviews, serving the Westwood and West LA community.

Services:General DentistryComprehensive Dental CareFamily Dental CareAffordable Dental Care+18 more

Offers General Dentistry4.9★ · 636 reviews

View profile Call westwooddentist.net

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry, 4.9★ Google rating across 636 verified reviews, and Smyleee Rating 81/100.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 4.9★ · 636 reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published22 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Los Angeles Dental Arts

4.9(474)·0 m from Los Angeles Downtown

75Smyleee

8540 S Sepulveda Blvd, Ste 918, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens today at 9 AM

General Dentistry focus in Los Angeles, with general dentistry listed among 22 documented services.

More about general dentistry at this clinic

Los Angeles Dental Arts is a top-rated dental practice in Los Angeles providing comprehensive dental care including general dentistry, cosmetic treatments, and preventive services.

Services:General DentistryFamily Dental CareBone GraftingBraces+18 more

Offers General Dentistry4.9★ · 474 reviews

View profile Call losangelesdentalarts.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry and 4.9★ Google rating across 474 verified reviews.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 4.9★ · 474 reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websiteInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published22 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 2, 2026

Richard S Silvera, DDS

5.0(152)·16 km from Los Angeles Downtown

76Smyleee

#1003, 2080, Century Park East, Century City, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens Monday at 8:30 AM

General Dentistry anchors this Los Angeles clinic's profile, alongside Bruxism and Dental Cleaning across 21 services.

Read full description

Whether your dental needs are a complete exam and cleaning, a full-mouth restoration, teeth whitening or anything in between, we promise to provide you with exceptional care as we enhance the natural beauty and health of your smile. Below are just some of the many procedures and services we regularly provide to our patients – with a gentle touch, and stunning results. Your smile is our first priority, and we’ll give you something to smile about.

Services:General DentistryBruxismCosmetic DentistryDental Bridges+17 more

Offers General Dentistry5.0★ · 152 reviews

View profile Call drsilvera.com

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry and 5.0★ Google rating across 152 verified reviews.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry · 5.0★ · 152 reviews

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberPublic websitePrice range published21 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 16, 2026

DTLA Dental & Implant

4.9(43)·1.1 km from Los Angeles Downtown

66Smyleee

213, 333, Alameda Street, Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California

Closed · Opens today at 8 AM

Dental Implants is the documented focus in Los Angeles; General Dentistry sits within 5 services on profile.

More about general dentistry at this clinic

The practice provides dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, dentures, orthodontics, and general dental care.

Services:General DentistryCosmetic DentistryDental CrownsDental Implants+1 more

Offers General Dentistry

View profile Call

Why this ranks

Best forGeneral Dentistry

Why includedIncluded because this clinic directly offers General Dentistry.

Stands outOffers General Dentistry

ProofBusiness hours publishedDirect phone numberInsurance acceptance documentedPrice range published5 services listed

VerifiedClinic data last verified Apr 13, 2026

Top 10 General Dentists in Los Angeles California

Which clinic looks strongest at a glance?

General Dentists Costs in Los Angeles, California (2026)

How We Vet Each Clinic

How We Scored the Best Clinics

Start with the decision lens that fits your priority

Blue Pearl Dentistry

Happy Smiles

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian, DDS

Choose how clinic distance is measured

Top Clinics in Los Angeles Proper

Blue Pearl Dentistry

Dr. Arthur A. Kezian, DDS

Playa District Dental

Happy Smiles

Smile L.A. Downtown Modern Dentistry

Larchmont Dental Associates

Cosmetic Dental of Westwood

Los Angeles Dental Arts

Richard S Silvera, DDS

DTLA Dental & Implant

Side-by-Side Comparison

How to Choose a Dentist in Los Angeles

If you want routine or family care

If urgency matters

If affordability matters most

Questions to ask before booking

Frequently Asked Questions

How This Page Was Reviewed

More Top 10 Clinics in Los Angeles

Affordable Dentures and Implants in Los Angeles California

Tooth Decay Treatment in Los Angeles California

Gum Disease Treatment in Los Angeles California

Kids Dentist in Los Angeles California

Tooth Filling in Los Angeles California

Braces in Los Angeles California

Keep comparing before you book

#	Clinic	Smyleee	Google	Wknd	Ins.	Fin.	Offers General Dentistry
1	Blue Pearl Dentistry	81	5.0★(987)	—	✓	—	✓
2	Dr. Arthur A. Kezian, DDS	79	5.0★(1,205)	✓	✓	—	✓
3	Playa District Dental	79	5.0★(590)	—	✓	—	✓
4	Happy Smiles	79	4.9★(1,688)	✓	✓	—	✓
5	Smile L.A. Downtown Modern Dentistry	78	4.8★(745)	—	✓	—	✓
6	Larchmont Dental Associates	82	5.0★(544)	✓	✓	—	✓
7	Cosmetic Dental of Westwood	81	4.9★(636)	—	✓	—	✓
8	Los Angeles Dental Arts	75	4.9★(474)	✓	✓	—	✓
9	Richard S Silvera, DDS	76	5.0★(152)	—	—	—	✓
10	DTLA Dental & Implant	66	4.9★(43)	✓	✓	—	✓