09/04/2026
Doctors and dentists are both highly trained healthcare professionals, yet research suggests that patients can view them differently when it comes to trust. One national U.S. poll found that 69% of Americans rated medical doctors highly for honesty and ethics, compared with just over 60% for dentists. One reason may be that dental patients are often asked to make decisions about procedures they cannot easily see or evaluate themselves, while treatment options and costs can vary. That makes communication and transparency especially important when building trust with a dentist.
When searching for a dentist, look beyond star ratings. Pay attention to their education, experience, licensing, technology, and how clearly they explain what they see and why a treatment is being recommended. A good dentist should show you X-rays or scans when appropriate, discuss different treatment options, answer questions without making you feel rushed, and be transparent about costs. Research has found that 64% of patients read online reviews before deciding to visit a dentist, but reviews should be only one part of your decision. The dentist you choose should ultimately be someone whose expertise, communication, and approach to care give you confidence in the treatment you are receiving.
Sources:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/adj.12514
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35430916/
https://www.ada.org/resources/practice/practice-management/the-doctor-patient-relationship
https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/dental-standards
For educational purposes only. Not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No physician-patient relationship is created. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice.