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315 verified Dentists in Aurora, CO
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Availability last updated 04/04/2026
Dentist
17.5 mi · 9859 W Coal Mine Ave, Littleton, CO 80123
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Cade was born and raised in Denver. Growing up, dentistry was always a part of his life as he watched his father (Dr. Carlson) improve his patients’ health through quality dental work. Dr. Cade’s journey to a dental career wasn’t linear. After spending 5 years in the finance industry, he realiz...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·3 reviews
11 mi · 24112 E. Orchard Rd, LF-09, Aurora, CO 80016
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Cherokee Trail Dental Care in Aurora, CO. He sees individuals for routine check-ups, ongoing care, and specific dental concerns. Dr. Olsen reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers...Click to read more
Orthodontist
11 mi · 24112 E. Orchard Rd, LF-09, Aurora, CO 80016
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Adrian de Moya is an ABO Board Certified Orthodontist with a Certificate of Orthodontic Graduate Study from Indiana University School of Dentistry, a Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. With publications in the Journal of Periodontal Research and...Click to read more
Orthodontist
11 mi · 24112 E. Orchard Rd, LF-09, Aurora, CO 80016
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Robert Judd is an orthodontist based in Aurora, CO. He practices at Cherokee Trail Dental Care and offers various general and preventative dental health services.? Dr. Judd completed his master's degree in orthodontics at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. He earned his denta...Click to read more
Prosthodontist
5.00
·11 reviews
11 mi · 5120 S Broadway, Ste B, Englewood, CO 80113
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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As a little girl growing up in Southern California, Dr. Ailar always dreamed of serving her community in an impactful way. She chose to begin her dental education at one of the most established and highly ranked dental schools in the world, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Univer...Click to read more
Dentist
4.67
·12 reviews
Great care, thorough exam, very friendly! by JSClick to read more
17.5 mi · 350 Indiana St, Ste 150, Golden, CO 80401
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Mary Mercier is originally from Omaha, Nebraska, she brings a warm, friendly approach to every appointment. Outside the office, she enjoys staying active by skiing and riding horses. She also proudly serves as a dentist in the Air Force Reserves, stationed at Peterson Space Force Base. Dr. Merci...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·2 reviews
11 mi · 18240 E 104th Ave, 201, Commerce City, CO 80022
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon at Reunion Dental Care in Commerce City, CO. He welcomes patients with diseases and injuries affecting the mouth, jaws, and face. Dr. Olsen acquired his dental degree from the University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Dental Medicine as part of his educational trai...Click to read more
Orthodontist
11 mi · 18240 E 104th Ave, 201, Commerce City, CO 80022
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Robert Judd is an orthodontist at Reunion Dental Care in Commerce City, CO. He welcomes patients with teeth and jaw irregularities affecting their oral function, appearance, and quality of life. Dr. Judd understands patients' conditions and prepares individualized treatment plans. He also answe...Click to read more
Orthodontist
12 mi · 8150 S. Quebec St, C, Centennial, CO 80112
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Robert Judd is an orthodontist who practices at Perfect Teeth For Kids in Centennial, CO. As part of his formal education, Dr. Judd acquired a dental degree from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and a master's degree in orthodontics from the University of Colorado School of Dental Med...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
12 mi · 8150 S. Quebec St, C, Centennial, CO 80112
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon. He practices at Perfect Teeth For Kids in Centennial, CO. During consultations, Dr. Olsen listens to his patients' concerns, thoroughly explains their conditions, and helps them select an appropriate treatment plan. He believes in creating partnerships with them t...Click to read more
Dentist
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Nicholas Freel is a dentist who practices at Vista Ridge Dental Care in Erie, CO. He treats patients with varying dental hist...Click to read more
Dentist
4.27
·30 reviews
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Michelle Raleigh-Gutierrez is a dentist in Erie, CO. She practices at Vista Ridge Dental Care and sees individuals for routin...Click to read more
Dentist
3.67
·3 reviews
The Dr. did a more through examine of my mouth than any dentist I have ever had. - Jan 9, 2026 by Kent S.Click to read more
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Ashwini Shivashankarappa is a dentist. She practices at Vista Ridge Dental Care in Erie, CO, where she welcomes individuals and families of all ages. Dr. Shivashankarappa diagnoses, treats, and manages various dental concerns. During consultations, she listens to her patients, explains their co...Click to read more
Dentist
4.20
·30 reviews
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Anna Maria Lulek is a dentist who provides in-person services at Vista Ridge Dental Care in Erie, CO. She is fluent in Englis...Click to read more
Dentist
4.03
·30 reviews
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Kruti Patel is originally from India and earned Bachelor’s of Dental Surgery in 2014. Upon graduation, she moved to Colorado ...Click to read more
Dentist
4.00
·8 reviews
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Shawn Barry is a dentist who serves the people in Erie, CO. At Vista Ridge Dental Care, he provides in-person consultations, ...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·30 reviews
16 mi · 8749 Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada, CO 80003
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Perfect Teeth in Thornton and Loveland, CO. He sees individuals for surgical procedures of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Dr. Olsen reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers all q...Click to read more
Prosthodontist
4.80
·5 reviews
16 mi · 264 Union Blvd, Ste 200, Lakewood, CO 80228
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Koheil is a Board Certified (Diplomate of the American College of Prosthodontists) prosthodontist. He is a member of the American College of Prosthodontists. He attended The University of Minnesota, where he completed the Advanced Graduate Program in Prosthodontics. He was also awarded a Masters...Click to read more
Prosthodontist
5.00
·11 reviews
16 mi · 12031 Tejon St, Westminster, CO 80234
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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As a little girl growing up in Southern California, Dr. Ailar always dreamed of serving her community in an impactful way. She chose to begin her dental education at one of the most established and highly ranked dental schools in the world, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Univer...Click to read more
Cosmetic Dentist
4.90
·70 reviews
Thorough explanation. Clean & fast office. Not pushy by SJClick to read more
16.5 mi · 2721 W 120th Ave, Ste A200, Westminster, CO 80234
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Paul Quiram is a dentist, cosmetic dentist, and dental pain specialist practicing in the communities of Thornton and Westminster, CO. Dr. Quiram attended the University of Minnesota, where he received his dental degree. He then completed his residency in general practice at the University of Washing...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·30 reviews
16.5 mi · 7660 S. Pierce St, Littleton, CO 80128
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Perfect Teeth in Thornton and Loveland, CO. He sees individuals for surgical procedures of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Dr. Olsen reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers all q...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·30 reviews
16.5 mi · 530 E. Bromley Ln, 100, Brighton, CO 80601
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Perfect Teeth in Thornton and Loveland, CO. He sees individuals for surgical procedures of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Dr. Olsen reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers all q...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·30 reviews
17 mi · 13035 W. Alameda Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80228
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Perfect Teeth in Thornton and Loveland, CO. He sees individuals for surgical procedures of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Dr. Olsen reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers all q...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
19.5 mi · 14769 W 87th Pkwy, Arvada, CO 80005
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Anastasia Haupt is a highly skilled and board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. She has a passion for providing exceptional, compassionate care to her patients and treating everyone as family. Dr. Ana grew up in the mountains of Idaho and attended Idaho State University where she played ...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·1 review
- Jan 6, 2025 by Maya P.Click to read more
19.5 mi · 14769 W 87th Pkwy, Arvada, CO 80005
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Haupt is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and is honored to serve members of the Colorado community. He is dedicated to the quest for excellence in clinical care and patient experience. Dr. Haupt earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Creighton University School of Dentistry i...Click to read more
Periodontist
5.00
·1 review
by KGClick to read more
19.5 mi · 14769 W 87th Pkwy, Arvada, CO 80005
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Meet Dr. Christopher Brett, a board-certified periodontist deeply committed to delivering outstanding clinical care and ensuring an exceptional patient experience. He believes that everyone is entitled to a mouth that is comfortable, functional, aesthetic, and healthy. Hailing from Pittsburgh, PA, ...Click to read more
Endodontist
5.00
·3 reviews
It was great! Dr. K is very professional yet personable. Such an easy process. by SKClick to read more
19.5 mi · 14769 W 87th Pkwy, Arvada, CO 80005
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Kiebish is a residency trained endodontist and is excited and honored to serve the local Colorado community. He is committed to providing exceptional care and a remarkable patient experience. Dr. Kiebish is a New England native, growing up in Connecticut and going on to attend Northeastern Univ...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·2 reviews
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Vista Ridge Dental Care in Erie, CO. He welcomes individuals and families of all ages for routine check-ups, ongoing care, and specific dental concerns. During consultations, Dr. Olsen listens to his patients' concerns, explains their conditions, o...Click to read more
Periodontist
5.00
·1 review
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr, 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Douglas Crane Hardy is a periodontist based in Erie, CO. He practices at Mid-Atlantic Dental Partners and diagnoses and treats periodontal disease. Dr. Crane Hardy reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers all questions related...Click to read more
Orthodontist
21.5 mi · 3140 Village Vista Dr., 108, Erie, CO 80516
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Elizabeth Lukens is an orthodontist. She provides in-person services at Vista Ridge Dental Care in Erie, CO, where she welcomes people of all ages. Dr. Lukens sees individuals for routine check-ups, ongoing care, and specific dental concerns. She works with patients to schedule care that fits t...Click to read more
Dentist
28 mi · 4150 Darley Ave, #7, Boulder, CO 80305
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Kaushal Dhawan was born in India and completed his initial dental education at Manipal University, one of the top dental schools. After moving to the United States, he attended the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D...Click to read more
Dentist
5.00
·10 reviews
28.5 mi · 661 S. Broadway St, Boulder, CO 80305
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Anna Maria Lulek, DDS, is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist serving patients at Perfect Teeth in Boulder, Colorado. ...Click to read more
Dentist
4.53
·30 reviews
30.5 mi · 6160 Firestone Blvd., 105, Firestone, CO 80504
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Shawn Barry is a dentist in Firestone, CO. He offers his services at Firestone Dental Care and welcomes patients and families...Click to read more
Dentist
5.00
·12 reviews
The issue I had ,was resolved and I am grateful for the questions asked and the actions taken to clear up my concern. - Feb 28, 2026 by William J.Click to read more
30.5 mi · 6160 Firestone Blvd., 105, Firestone, CO 80504
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Felecia Parker is originally from North Carolina. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry in 1994. After dental school, Dr. Parker completed a General Practice Residency at the Minneapolis Veterans Medical Center. Dr. Parker enjoyed serving her com...Click to read more
Dentist
4.89
·38 reviews
The office staff is amazing! Everyone at the practice is friendly and welcoming. Will definitely refer my friends! by LBClick to read more
30.5 mi · 11078 Cimarron St, Suite H, Firestone, CO 80504
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 29 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Tony Lere grew up in Greeley. He attended the University of Colorado’s School of Dental Medicine, where he earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Upon graduation, he completed a postdoctoral residency program for general dentists at the Veterans Administration Hospital in San Antonio, TX. While the...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·30 reviews
25 mi · 390 S. Wilcox St, A, Castle Rock, CO 80104
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Perfect Teeth in Thornton and Loveland, CO. He sees individuals for surgical procedures of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Dr. Olsen reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers all q...Click to read more
Dentist
4.49
·39 reviews
Really friendly and experienced staff members - Jul 29, 2025 by Kofi A.Click to read more
34 mi · 1631 Pace St, B-3, Longmont, CO 80504
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
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*New patients - Please note when booking with this provider, your initial appointment will be a comprehensive exam and you will be scheduled for a cleaning accordingly.* Dr. Venkata Naga Sravanthi Jonnalagadda is a dentist who provides in-person services at Perfect Teeth in Aurora, CO. Dr. Jonnala...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·30 reviews
28.5 mi · 661 S. Broadway St, Boulder, CO 80305
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Perfect Teeth in Thornton and Loveland, CO. He sees individuals for surgical procedures of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Dr. Olsen reviews each patient's dental history and current concerns before recommending a course of action. He answers all q...Click to read more
Oral Surgeon
5.00
·2 reviews
30.5 mi · 6160 Firestone Blvd., 105, Firestone, CO 80504
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Adam Olsen is an oral surgeon who practices at Firestone Dental Care in Firestone, CO. He welcomes patients of all ages with oral health concerns. Dr. Olsen explains patients' conditions and discusses an appropriate treatment plan. He answers queries about what to expect during the procedure, ...Click to read more
Orthodontist
30.5 mi · 6160 Firestone Blvd., 105, Firestone, CO 80504
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Elizabeth Lukens is an orthodontist at Firestone Dental Care in Firestone, CO. During consultations, she explains patients' conditions and offers individualized treatment plans. Dr. Lukens explains every step of the orthodontic treatment, ensuring that patients understand what to expect during...Click to read more
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Dentist in Aurora?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Dentist in Aurora, book an appointment, and see the Dentist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Dentists in Aurora who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find an Aurora Dentist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Aurora Dentist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Dentist in Aurora?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Dentists in Aurora and book appointments instantly. You can search for Aurora Dentists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Dentist in Aurora?

When you search for Aurora Dentists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Dentists in Aurora who match your preferences.


How can I find an Aurora Dentist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Aurora Dentists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Dentist in Aurora?

You can use Zocdoc to find Dentists in Aurora who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Dentist online in Aurora?

Dentists in Aurora on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Dentists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Dentist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Dentists in Aurora who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Dentist in Aurora who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Dentist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Dentist in Aurora who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Dentists in Aurora. Many Dentists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is a dentist?

A dentist is a healthcare professional trained in maintaining the overall health of our teeth, gums, and tissues in the mouth. They treat, diagnose, and prevent oral diseases and their related conditions. Dentists promote good oral hygiene and prevent the proliferation of germs and bacteria in the mouth.


Dentists play a significant role in detecting diseases like oral cancer and symptoms that indicate other severe health conditions at their early stages. Dentists often help patients identify medical conditions that first appear in the oral cavity before showing signs in different body parts. For this purpose, they use modern equipment like X-rays, drills, lasers, scalpels, and other medical tools. They usually wear protective gear like masks and gloves to avoid spreading infections.


Dentistry is a challenging profession, and a dentist performs various tasks that include:

  • Evaluating the oral health of patients while suggesting preventive care for better dental hygiene
  • Performing different clinical procedures like dental fillings, crowns, extractions, implants, and corrective surgeries
  • Using advanced equipment and reviewing X-rays and diagnostics
  • Monitoring the growth of jawbones and teeth
  • Giving anesthesia for performing oral surgeries
  • Conducting regular health screenings 


Education and training of a dentist 

Becoming a dentist involves education and training that parallels a medical doctor's. The journey begins with an undergraduate biology, chemistry, health, or math program, culminating in a bachelor of science degree. Clearing the dental admissions test is mandatory when applying to dental schools.


The training process includes:

  • Two years of intensive biomedical science studies and hands-on clinical practice.
  • Gaining a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) degree.
  • Obtaining a dental license through successful completion of written and practical examinations.


Additionally, dentists can seek certification by taking the National Board Dental Examination. Depending on their chosen area of specialization, dentists may embark on a postgraduate residency program lasting from one to three years.


Dentists can opt to specialize in various fields, each necessitating a postgraduate residency:

  • Dental public health: Focuses on preventing oral health issues within communities through education and policy development.
  • Endodontics: Specialization in treating conditions affecting the dental pulp and the surrounding tissues. Endodontists specialize in performing root canal treatments.
  • Oral and maxillofacial pathology: Concentrates on diagnosing oral diseases and identifying potential oral cancers.
  • Oral and maxillofacial radiology: The focus is on capturing and interpreting radiographic images for diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery: This field involves surgical procedures on the face, mouth, and jaw.
  • Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics: This branch includes correcting misaligned teeth and jaws for improved function and aesthetics.
  • Pediatric dentistry: This field focuses on providing oral health care for children and adolescents, including preventive measures.
  • Periodontics: Specialization in treating gum diseases and dental implant procedures.
  • Prosthodontics: Concentration on restoring and replacing missing teeth with prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.


This comprehensive education and training process equips dentists with the expertise and skills to provide specialized oral healthcare services, ensuring that all patients receive optimal dental care.


Why should you consult a dentist regularly?

Dentists do not just clean your teeth; they ensure good gum health, check for oral abnormalities, and identify symptoms that indicate serious health issues. Consider visiting a dentist near you for regular checkups to maintain good oral hygiene. Here are a few reasons why you should see a dentist at regular intervals:

  • Detecting oral cancer: When not detected early, oral cancer symptoms can make future diagnosis very difficult. However, if you visit a dentist regularly, they can notice any symptoms associated with the disease and help in quality management.
  • Removing plaque and cavities: Even when you brush and floss often, there are still high chances of plaque and tartar accumulating on the teeth. Usually, cavities do not show symptoms until after tooth decay. Regular dental cleanings help prevent plaque, tartar, and cavities in your teeth.
  • Prevent gum diseases: Plaque and tartar cause tooth cavities and affect the gums and surrounding tissues. The tartar buildup on your teeth may cause an infection known as gingivitis that slowly leads to the gum line receding from its normal position. Extreme conditions result in teeth loosening and falling out. 
  • Monitoring your habits: Addictive or harmful practices such as chewing ice, eating hard sweets, drinking excessive coffee and red wine, biting your nails, and smoking can affect oral health. Regular dentist consultations can monitor and prevent these issues.
  • Detecting underlying problems: Your dentist can detect dental problems that may not be visible to the naked eye with equipment like X-rays, scanners, lasers, etc. Dental issues can often be due to underlying medical conditions.


Surgical procedures performed by dentists 

Oral surgery encompasses a variety of procedures involving the teeth, gums, jaw, and adjacent structures. These include tooth extractions, dental bone grafts, gum grafts, and corrective jaw surgery. You may need to undergo dental surgery for multiple reasons, such as badly broken teeth, gum disease, extensive tooth decay, etc. Some of the oral surgeries are as follows: 

  • Dental bone graft: The roots of your teeth play a prominent role in keeping your teeth and jaws healthy. They stimulate the nerves, signaling your brain to send nutrients to the jaw. However, when a tooth is missing, these signals are not sent, leading to a lack of nutrition for your jaw. It can result in bone deterioration over time.

A dental bone graft addresses this issue by restoring volume to your jawbone, providing a solid foundation for future dental implants. Occasionally, a bone graft is incorporated into periodontal surgery to address gum disease and further support dental health.

  • Tooth extraction: It is recommended for several reasons, including severe tooth decay, dental injuries, or issues related to wisdom teeth. While dentists generally strive to maintain natural teeth, extractions sometimes become necessary to uphold overall oral health. Dentists often recommend wisdom tooth removal to mitigate risks of cavities, bone loss, and other oral issues.
  • Dental implants: Dental implants act as a dependable and durable solution for replacing missing teeth. The dentist surgically implants small threaded posts typically crafted from medical-grade titanium/zirconia into the jaw to substitute natural tooth roots. After healing, dental implants can be further restored with dental crowns, bridges, or dentures, providing a stable and long-term solution for tooth replacement.
  • Periodontal surgery: For individuals with moderate to severe periodontitis, dentists may recommend a gum disease treatment. This procedure involves incisions along the gum line, temporarily displacing the tissue away from the teeth. The surgeon then cleans the tooth roots thoroughly, eliminating accumulated plaque and bacteria under the gums. Finally, the gum tissue is repositioned and secured with sutures.
  • A gum graft: This may be necessary in cases where gum recession occurs due to periodontitis. During this procedure, the surgeon uses donor tissue to reinforce the area of tissue loss. This tissue can be sourced from the roof of the mouth or obtained from a certified tissue bank.


What can you expect during a dental appointment?

A dental visit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Dentists and hygienists strive to ensure a comfortable experience, often offering amenities like TV, movies, or sedation options for certain procedures. Whether it’s your first visit or a routine checkup, your appointment plays a vital role in maintaining good oral health and a brighter smile.


Plan ahead by allocating enough time from work or school to ease any anxiety. When scheduling your appointment, inquire about the estimated duration of the exam and cleaning, mainly if it has been a while since your last visit. Booking an appointment later in the day can help you unwind afterward. If you have dental insurance, verify whether your dentist is in-network to manage costs and clarify potential charges. Arrive early to complete any required paperwork and bring your ID and insurance details.


During your visit, a dental hygienist will remove plaque/tartar from your teeth using special instruments. If you experience discomfort, let them know so they can adjust accordingly. The dentist will thereafter polish your teeth using a rotating brush and flavored paste, followed by a rinse. The dentist may take X-rays to detect any underlying dental issues. Additionally, the dentist will check your teeth and gums using a periodontal probe to identify concerns and discuss necessary treatments or preventive care.


If it has been long since your last checkup, your cleaning may be more thorough and include additional procedures. The dentist may take X-rays to check the condition of your gums, teeth, and bone structure. Removing tartar buildup may cause mild discomfort but is essential for maintaining oral health. If they detect any issues, the dentist will guide the best course of action to address them effectively.


Where can you find the best dentist near you in Aurora, Colorado?

Oral health problems can develop quickly and aggravate over time. By visiting a dentist regularly, you ensure that you maintain good dental hygiene and avoid degrading your oral health. It thus becomes imperative to find the right dentist to help you achieve this quickly. But where can you find the best dentist in Aurora, Colorado? Zocdoc is your answer!


You can find the best nearby dentists on Zocdoc by entering your symptoms, location, and insurance plan. Each dentist's profile provides detailed information such as their education, practice location, gender, languages spoken, and whether they offer consultations for children.


You also get access to verified patient reviews and ratings for the listed doctors. Once you have selected a dentist who suits all your requirements, you can book an appointment immediately. Depending on their availability, you can make an appointment with the best dentist in your vicinity even on weekends, before 10 A.M. and after 5 P.M. 


When selecting an in-network provider, you can trust the security of your health insurance with Zocdoc. We adhere to industry best practices to safeguard your information. You can visit our website for more information about our data and privacy practices. 


On Zocdoc, you can link your medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to your account, but you can use only one plan per appointment. You can mention your secondary insurance details in the appointment notes if you have multiple insurance plans. Alternatively, if your healthcare provider uses Zocdoc's Intake forms, you can enter your secondary insurance information directly through the form. If you have any insurance-related questions, you can contact Zocdoc's patient help center for assistance.


Booking in-person or online appointments with dentists near you on Zocdoc is simple, secure, and free of cost!


Oral health-related statistics in Colorado and the US

According to a National Library of Center Medicine report published in 2017, caries was the most prevalent chronic childhood condition in Colorado, affecting roughly 40% of kindergarteners and around 55% of third graders. The report also showed that frequent 100% fruit juice intake is directly attributed to childhood caries. Caries is known to be a diet-mediated disease, as sugars fuel the disease process. 


According to The Journal of Dental Hygiene report, between 2006 and 2015, more than 49 million Americans resided in dentally underserved places. 


As per a report by the Primary Care Collaborative, the Colorado Medical-Dental Integration Project implemented an initiative to incorporate dental hygienists into the teams of pediatric primary care in community health centers across the state. Over five years, the initiative screened around 73,706 patients. Among these patients, nearly 55% had followed up with a subsequent dental visit. 


Sources

WebMD[1]

WebMD[2]

123DENTIST

American Dental Education Association

The National Library of Medicine

The Journal of Dental Hygiene

Cleveland Clinic



The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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