Complaint Information for Consumers

    Consumers may file complaints against Board licensees who practice in the following license categories:

    • Dentist (DDS)
    • Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
    • Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEF)

    In addition, consumers may file complaints against the following permits:

    For dentists:

    • Additional Office Permit
    • Conscious Sedation Permit
    • Elective Facial Cosmetic Surgery Permit
    • Fictitious Name Permit
    • General Anesthesia Permit
    • Medical General Anesthesia Permit (Physician)
    • Mobile Dental Clinic Permit
    • Moderate Sedation Permit
    • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Permit (dually Licensed Dentist/Physician)
    • Oral Conscious Sedation Certificate (for sedation of adult patients)
    • Pediatric Minimal Sedation Permit
    • Special Permit (for Professors at Dental Colleges)

    For dental assistants:

    • Orthodontic Assistant Permit
    • Dental Sedation Assistant Permit

    For educators:

    • Registered Continuing Education Provider Permit
    • Board-approved dental assisting educational programs and courses

    Complaints can be filed online through DCA BreEZe Online Services, DCA’s online complaint portal. You can also complete a Consumer Complaint Form and submit it the Board by email or regular mail. Email the completed form to DentalBoardComplaints@dca.ca.gov. To download the form in English or Spanish, click on How to File a Complaint below.

    Many complaints allege illegal activity that 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.

    Please contact your insurance company or the individual dental office to resolve general billing or fee disputes. You can also consult with private legal counsel.

    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.

    Unlicensed Practice

    If you have evidence indicating that an unlicensed person is practicing dentistry, you may file a complaint to report the activity to the Board. As a licensing agency, the Board only has jurisdiction to take disciplinary action against its licensees. In certain circumstances, however, the Board will investigate allegations of unlicensed practice. If sufficient evidence is found, Board investigators will open a case and forward it to the local District Attorney's Office for criminal prosecution.