Welcome to the Dental Board of California

Consumers Frequently Asked Questions

The following information is intended to inform consumers of the procedures for filing a complaint against individuals licensed by the Dental Board of California. Board licensees are those who practice in the following license categories:
  • Dentists (DDS)
  • Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH)
  • Registered Dental Hygienists in Alternative Practice (RDHAP)
  • Registered Dental Hygienists in Extended Function (RDHEF)
  • Registered Dental Assistants (RDA)
  • Registered Dental Assistants in Extended Function (RDAEF)

If you need information or have a problem with a  health plan (HMO), contact the Department of Managed Health Care at 1-800-400-0815.

Who Can/Should File a Complaint With the Dental Board of California?

A complaint should be filed by anyone who believes that a licensee of the Board has engaged in illegal activities which are related to his/her professional responsibilities. This includes substandard dental care rendered by any of the license categories mentioned above.

In addition, if you have evidence which indicates that an unlicensed person is participating in activities for which a license is required, you should report such activity to the Board.

Complaints involving allegations which are not within the jurisdiction of this Board may be referred to other agencies or organizations which may be better able to assist the complainant. Complaints not within the authority of the Board concern: fee/billing disputes, general business practices, and personality conflicts.

How Do I File a Complaint?


All complaints must be in writing. The information contained in your complaint will determine what action the Board will take. Please provide a statement which describes the nature of your complaint. Include as many specific details as possible as well as any documentary evidence related to your complaint. This may include patient records, photographs, contracts, invoices, and correspondence. It is not necessary to refer to specific sections of the law which you feel have been violated. While anonymous complaints will be reviewed, they may be impossible to pursue without support from the complaintant.

For more information about complaints, please visit our complaint information web page.