Information for Consumers

The Dental Board of California (Board) licenses and regulates dentists and dental assistants. The Board is responsible for implementing and enforcing the Dental Practice Act, which authorizes the Board to investigate complaints and take disciplinary action against licensees. These investigative and disciplinary functions are handled by the Board's Enforcement Program.

Enforcement Program staff investigate complaints against licensees who have engaged in an activity which may be unsafe, and which may put the public at risk. The Board investigates matters when it can obtain clear and convincing evidence that a violation of the Dental Practice Act has occurred to a reasonable degree of certainty.

• License Verification

  To search for and verify a license, use the DCA License Search page.

• Complaint Information

  Many complaints allege illegal activity that does not violate the Dental Practice Act and is not within the jurisdiction of the Board. Complaints that are beyond the authority of the Board include:

  • General (administrative) office procedures of the dental office.
  • Fee and billing disputes.
  • Insurance coverage disputes.
  • Reimbursements or financial compensation.
  • Rude behavior by dentists and dental staff.

  These complaints may be referred to other agencies or organizations that may be better able to assist the complainant. Complainants should contact their insurance company or the individual dental office to resolve general billing or fee disputes.

  If you need information or have a problem with a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), contact the Department of Managed Health Care at (1-800) 400-0815 or file a complaint on their website

• Consumer Complaint Frequently Asked Questions
• Hot Sheets (Summaries of Board Enforcement Actions)
• Allowable Duties – Frequently Asked Questions
• Overview of Enforcement Program and Process
• Board Meetings
• Helpful Links (Resources for Consumers)