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Staying safe and informed

How to verify a dentist, understand consent, and protect yourself from too-good-to-be-true offers.

Staying safe and informed

Aurelia Smile helps you find cosmetic dentists for free, but we do not provide dental care or medical advice. This page explains simple ways to check a dentist, understand your choices, and stay alert for offers that feel rushed or unclear.

01

How to verify a dentist


Before you book, check that the dentist is licensed in your state. You can look up the state dental board online and confirm the name, license status, and any public discipline record.

It also helps to ask where the dentist went to school, how long they have practiced, and whether they regularly do the treatment you want. A careful dentist should answer clearly and without pressure.

02

What a real consultation should include


What a real consultation should include

A proper consultation should give you time to explain your goals, your concerns, and your budget. The dentist should examine your teeth, explain options in plain language, and tell you what may or may not be possible.

You should leave with an estimate in writing. The price can change based on your case, the materials used, the city, and the state, so only the dentist can give a real quote.

03

Your right to clear consent


You have the right to understand what will happen before you agree to treatment. That means knowing the benefits, risks, likely results, and other options, including doing nothing for now.

If English is not your first language, you can ask for a translator or ask the office to explain things more slowly. Do not sign forms you do not understand.

04

How to spot too-good-to-be-true offers


Be cautious if a dental office promises a perfect smile, uses heavy pressure, or asks you to decide right away. Real care should not feel rushed or secretive.

Also be careful with very low prices that are not explained in writing. A low ad price may not include exams, X-rays, follow-up visits, anesthesia, or the full treatment you need.

05

How Aurelia Smile protects your privacy


Aurelia Smile is a free matching and information service. We are not a dental provider, and we do not give medical or dental advice.

We share your information only to help match you with participating dentists when you choose to use the service. Participating dentists pay a flat fee to be part of the program, and it does not change your cost of care.

FAQ

Common questions

How do I check if a dentist is licensed?

Look up your state dental board online and search the dentist’s name. You can usually confirm the license status, office address, and any public record the board makes available.

What should I ask during a consultation?

Ask what treatment they recommend, why they recommend it, what other options exist, how long it may take, and what the total cost may include. You can also ask about risks and recovery time.

Do I have to agree to treatment right away?

No. You can ask for time to think, compare options, or get a second opinion. A good office will respect that choice.

What if the office does not speak my language well?

You can ask for a translator, a bilingual staff member, or written information in simpler words. If you do not understand the plan, do not sign until it is explained clearly.

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