Top 10 Best Dentists in India for Your Dental Needs and Oral Health

Looking for the right dentist in India but not sure who you can trust with your dental health?

Choosing the right dentist can make dental treatment safer, easier and honestly more comfortable. A solid dental professional kinda goes beyond the immediate ache and leans into long-term oral health, not just quick relief.

The best dentists in India aren’t only defined by popularity or how loudly they show up in reviews. Qualifications, dental specialization, hands-on clinical practice, modern tools, patient attention and actual treatment outcomes all carry real weight.

This guide points to ten dental professionals and clinics/practices based on publicly available professional info. It isn’t a formal national ranking. The intention is simple: just help patients, compare skills and pick the right kind of dental care that fits.

Did you know:
India has 376,721 registered dentists listed with the Dental Council of India. That works out to a dentist-to-population ratio of about 1 dentist for every 3,886 people across the country. Still, many dentists are based in cities. Smaller towns often get fewer services than larger urban areas.

How We Selected the Best Dentists in India

Picking a dentist is more than just checking online ratings. Before you book a dental consultation, it helps to look at a few key factors first.

Educational Qualifications & Specialization

Most qualified dentists have a BDS degree. If someone has an MDS, it usually signals a postgraduate specialization in dentistry, which matters depending on your case.

Related dental qualifications may involve:

• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Endodontics
• Periodontics
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Pediatric dentistry
• Implantology

Extra advanced training and dental certifications can also be useful. Still, the training should align with the treatment you actually need, otherwise it becomes kinda mismatched.

Clinical Experience

Dentist experience is also important. More experienced dentists often deal with a broader mix of routine and complicated cases, so they tend to recognize patterns earlier.

Focus on professional experience that directly connects to your treatment. For example, an endodontist might be the better fit for complex root canal care.

Areas of Dental Expertise

Modern dental care has a lot of directions to it. In general, people talk about dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, prosthodontics and also gum care.

A specialist can handle more tightly focused treatment for certain dental problems. That way, it can help support a kind of personalized dental care, not just one-size fits all.

Technology & Treatment Approach

Advanced dental tech can make diagnosis and treatment planning more accurate. Many modern clinics might use digital imaging, intraoral scanners, CAD/CAM systems and laser dentistry, depending on what they offer.

Also, dental clinic hygiene and proper sterilization matters just as much. You should ask about these setups during your consultation, even if it feels a bit “basic” question.

Patient Reviews & Reputation

Dentist reviews can give useful clues about what patients actually felt. Try to read the longer kind of reviews , not only star ratings.

And then think about communication, transparency, the way they plan the treatment and aftercare. These kinds of details often shape patient-centered dental care in a real way.

Top 10 Best Dentists in India

Below are professionals and practices that cover different areas of modern dentistry. Their place on the list is based on publicly shared details like qualifications, experience, specialization and the kind of services they mention.

1. Dr. Shobit Sethi — Chandigarh

Dr. Shobit Sethi is an orthodontist plus Dentofacial Orthopaedics based in Chandigarh. He serves as Co-Founder and Lead Dental Surgeon at The Smile Designers. Dr. Sethi is also known as Celebrity dentist in India who serves NRIs, celebrities and high-profile public figures within the country as well as internationally.

Major areas of expertise:

• Invisalign & clear aligners
• orthodontic treatment
• full smile makeovers
• veneers and laminates
• dental implants
• general cosmetic dentistry

For people who want a full orthodontic treatment, the clinic tends to cover a lot of ground, kind of neatly.

Achievements and professional profile:

Dr. Sethi is a registered dental practitioner with the Punjab State Dental Council. His clinic also flags him as a certified Invisalign provider (not just “experienced”, but certified). The Smile Designers rely on digital dental technology, such as the iTero 5D scanner, OPG imaging, laser dentistry and smile-design software too.

Website: The Smile Designers

2. Dr. Sandesh Mayekar — Mumbai

Dr. Sandesh Mayekar is a seasoned cosmetic and aesthetic dentist in Mumbai. He is often credited with helping shape aesthetic dentistry in India, step by step, over the years.

Major areas of expertise:

• Cosmetic dentistry
• Ceramic veneers
• Dental crowns
• Smile design
• Root canal treatment
• Aesthetic dentistry
• Orofacial pain and TMD management

His current Practo profile notes 43 years of experience and presents him as a cosmetic/aesthetic dentist as well as a dental surgeon. He’s also been described by dental institutions as a pioneer in aesthetic dentistry. 

He helped found professional organizations and he played a role in bringing smile-design concepts into Indian aesthetic dentistry, early on  and with a lot of focus.

Source: Dr. Sandesh Mayekar’s profile on Practo

3. Dr. Burzin Khan — Mumbai

Dr. Burzin Khan is a prosthodontist, cosmetic dentist and implantologist based in Mumbai , he is also the Founder and Lead Dentist at Opus Dental Specialities, honestly.

Major areas of expertise:

• Dental implants
• Cosmetic dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Smile makeovers
• Veneers
• Full-mouth rehabilitation
• CAD/CAM restorations
• Immediate implant restorations

Dr. Khan wrapped up his BDS in 1987 and then his MDS in Prosthodontics from Government Dental College and Hospital, Mumbai University, in 1990. In his clinic, the focus is on digital workflows and modern restorative dentistry, with a steady push for precision, etc.

Also, his professional training includes implantology training in Germany and the Netherlands, plus Digital Smile Design training in Italy.

Website: Opus Dental Specialities

4. Dr. S. M. Balaji — Chennai

Dr. S. M. Balaji is a well known oral and cranio-maxillofacial surgeon in Chennai and he is linked with Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital, it sounds very established.

Major areas of expertise:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Cleft lip and palate surgery
• Facial reconstruction
• Maxillofacial surgery
• Complex facial deformities
• Craniofacial rehabilitation

Per his hospital profile, Dr. Balaji has performed more than 20,000 surgeries. His scope includes complex cleft work, as well as craniofacial procedures and those can be intricate, generally.

His hospital has ended up with an international reputation, for really advanced craniofacial and maxillofacial treatment. So, this makes his profile feel especially relevant for patients who are looking for specialized surgical care kind of urgently or at least in a very targeted way.

Website: Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital

5. Dr. Anil Kohli — New Delhi

Dr. Anil Kohli is a distinguished dental surgeon and also an endodontist, with more than four decades of professional experience.

Major areas of expertise:

• Endodontics
• Root canal treatment
• Conservative dentistry
• Dental implants
• Restorative dentistry

Achievements:

Dr. Kohli has received both the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. He also received the Dr. B. C. Roy National Award. He served as an honorary dental surgeon to Presidents of India for more than 20 years.

He also served as President of the Dental Council of India. Official DCI records list his presidential terms between 2004 and 2010.

Website: Dr Soni’s Dental Clinic

6. Dr. Mahesh Verma — New Delhi

Dr. Mahesh Verma is a renowned prosthodontist , dental academician and healthcare leader.

Major areas of expertise:

• Prosthodontics
• Dental implants
• Restorative dentistry
• Oral rehabilitation
• Dental education
• Dental research

Achievements:

Dr. Verma is a Padma Shri recipient and also a Dr. B. C. Roy Award recipient. He has served as Director-Principal of Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences and as Vice Chancellor of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University.

His academic and research contributions include work on indigenous dental implant development, plus he has been involved with the broader side of materials and clinical translation. He also held leadership roles in a handful of national and international dental organizations.

Source: Indian Prosthodontic Society profile

7. Dr. Shantanu Jaradi — Mumbai

Dr. Shantanu Jaradi is an aesthetic dentist tied to cosmetic and advanced dental care in Mumbai.

Major areas of expertise:

• Aesthetic dentistry
• Cosmetic dental treatments
• Smile enhancement
• Dental implants
• Advanced restorative procedures

Public dental directories describe Dr. Jaradi as a BDS and MDS dentist with around two decades of practice in Mumbai. He has also been mentioned or discussed in media settings around oral health and aesthetic dentistry. His professional profile is linked with Dentzz Dental Care Centres.

Important editorial note: Some older online references connect Dr. Jaradi with other clinics or different brand names. The latest public professional information places him with Dentzz. So, please verify the current practice affiliation before publication.

Website source: Dentzz Dental Care Centres

8. Lt. Gen. Dr. Vimal Arora — New Delhi

Lt. Gen. Dr. Vimal Arora is a well respected prosthodontist and a former senior leader within the Armed Forces Dental Services.

Major areas of expertise:

• Prosthodontics
• Dental implants
• Restorative dentistry
• Military dentistry
• Dental healthcare systems
• Clinical governance

Dr. Arora acted as Director General of Dental Services, as well as Colonel Commandant, Army Dental Corps. Also, he served as Honorary Dental Surgeon to the President of India .

He was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and the Vishisht Seva Medal with Bar. He is currently working as Chief Clinical Officer at Clove Dental.

Website: Dr. Vimal Arora’s official website

9. Dr. Ashwin Jawdekar — Mumbai

Dr. Ashwin Jawdekar is a pediatric dentist, a dental public health specialist, an instructor and a researcher, a kind of multi-role person.

Major areas of expertise:

• Pediatric dentistry
• Preventive dentistry
• Dental public health
• Orofacial myotherapy
• Children’s oral health
• Dental practice management

Dr. Jawdekar finished his BDS from Government Dental College and Hospital Mumbai and then got his MDS in Pediatric Dentistry from Nair Hospital Dental College. After that, he did postgraduate training in dental public health in London, which was a big step for him.

He is also the Founder President of the Foundation for Orofacial Myotherapy. In his approach he ties pediatric dental services together with prevention, awareness sessions and professional mentorship, kind of like everything in one stream.

Website: Foundation for Orofacial Myotherapy

10. Dr. K. Sadashiva Shetty — Bengaluru, Karnataka

Dr. K. Sadashiva Shetty is a renowned orthodontist, dental academician, clinician and former dental institution leader with more than four decades of experience in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics.

Major areas of expertise:

• Orthodontics
• Dentofacial orthopaedics
• Cleft disorders
• Skeletal malocclusion
• Comprehensive malocclusion treatment
• MBT treatment mechanics
• Surgical orthodontics
• Orthodontic education and training

Shetty built a strong academic and work record at Bapuji Dental College and Hospital. He started as Professor and Head of Orthodontics. Later he served as Principal and Director.

His honors include the Indian Orthodontic Society Lifetime Achievement Award. He also received the Best Teacher Award from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences. He was named Professor Emeritus by RGUHS. In 2024, he got the Best Achiever Award from Vijay Karnataka, under The Times Group.

Website source: Bapuji Dental College & Hospital profile

Before choosing a dental professional, you should consider this:

Which Dentist Fits Your Dental Issue?

Not all dental work is the same. Sometimes you need a specialist.

• Implants and missing teeth

An implant dentist or a trained prosthodontist, can check your bite and the bone around the tooth area. They help plan steps so results are more steady.

• Root canal work

If the nerve inside a tooth is hurt or infected, an endodontist is the right contact. They handle hard cases and guide you through the full process.

• Cosmetic changes

For veneers, whitening and crowns, look for a cosmetic dentist. They aim to improve the look, but they should also protect how your teeth work.

• Braces and clear aligners

An orthodontist deals with teeth position and jaw fit. Some people are told they can use braces, clear aligners, or other choices. It depends on what your teeth look like.

• Gum health

A periodontist handles gums and the tissue that keeps teeth in place. They can treat gum problems and support long term stability.

• Kids dental care

A pediatric dentist sees children and works with younger patients. Routine visits can help with habits, cavity prevention and comfort.

How to pick a dentist you can trust

Start with a few simple checks. Then match the clinic to your needs.

Look at training and credentials

Check the dentist’s BDS or MDS degree. If they list a specialty, verify it. Also confirm they are registered with the right professional board and hold current licenses.

Consider Their Experience

Talk to the person about their work with the exact procedure you need. If they have handled similar cases, that can matter more than a long list of years.

Look at Their Specialization

Many everyday issues are fine with a general dentist. If the problem is complex, you may need someone with a specialty such as orthodontics, root care, gum work, crowns and bridges or surgery.

Evaluate the Clinic’s Technology

Ask what the clinic uses to assess problems. Find out if they use up to date tools for exams and imaging. The tools should help the dentist make good calls, not run the show.

Read Patient Reviews Carefully

Read reviews, but read them with care. Look for comments about how staff explain things, how pain and comfort were handled, how clean the place felt, what happened after visits and whether costs were clear. A top score alone should not decide it.

In your first visit, ask straight questions about your care. You can start with these points:

– What the exam shows and the likely diagnosis?

– What treatment paths are available?

– What results can you expect?

– What risks or side effects could occur?

– How long will the full process take?

– What recovery looks like and what to do after?

– Whether there are other routes besides the main plan?

Think about where the clinic is. You may need more than one trip for treatment, so travel time adds up. If you need urgent care, you also want a place that is easy to reach.

Finally, talk about money early. Fees change based on the job, the materials, how hard the case is, where the clinic is and the skill level of the team. Ask for a full plan in writing, with an estimated total cost, before any work begins.

Conclusion

Picking the right dentist and having a plan makes a big difference in dental health. Look at the dentist’s training, focus area and time in practice. Ask what tools they use. Notice how they keep the clinic clean. Pay attention to how clearly the clinic explains your choices.

Also, you should go to the dentist for regular checkups, even if nothing hurts. They can catch small issues early. They also help keep your teeth and gums in good shape until the next appointment. A solid home routine supports that especially brushing and flossing.

The best dentist in India for you will depend on what you need. Your budget, where you live and the type of treatment you want all play a role. Take time to check options. Choose someone who can tailor care to your situation, not a one-size approach.

If you have ongoing pain, swelling, bleeding, strong sensitivity or a cracked or broken tooth, book a dental visit. Getting looked at sooner can stop a minor problem from getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are the best dentists in India?

The “best” dentist for you is not just based on how popular they are. Your choice should match with what you need. Look at their education, their focus area and how long they have worked. Check what tools and tech they use during treatment. Then read what other patients say about the whole experience. If you might need braces, implants, veneers, or a tough root canal, choose someone who has handled those cases a lot.

2. How can I find a good dentist near me?

Find a dentist with a valid license where you live. Or pick a clinic that local people already trust. Look at their training and any specialties they list. See what kinds of services they offer. Read what past patients say. It can hint at how the office runs and how staff treat people. You can also ask your doctor for a referral. After you pick a couple, schedule a first visit. Meet the dentist, ask questions and then decide.

3. What qualifications should I look for in a dentist?

In India, most dental work needs a BDS degree. BDS means Bachelor of Dental Surgery. They also need to be registered with the correct dental authority. If you want a special kind of treatment, ask if the dentist has an MDS. For example, orthodontics, prosthodontics, periodontics or endodontics. It also helps to check their past work. You can also ask if they have done the same procedure you need.

4. How often do I need dental checkups?

A lot of people go for a dental visit every six months. But still, the right timing can change. If you have gum problems, get cavities often, are using braces then you may need more visits. If you are wearing braces, or you have dental implants, check ups can be more regular. After they examine your teeth and gums, your dentist can suggest a care plan. If you visit on time, small problems can be seen early. That often means you may avoid bigger treatment later.

5. What are dental treatment costs in India?

Dental treatment costs in India can change a lot. The cost depends on the type of treatment. It also depends on how hard the case is, materials, tools, the clinic area and the dentist’s experience. A basic visit with cleaning usually costs less than major work. If you only look at the lowest price, you might miss important details. Ask your dentist for a clear plan and an itemized estimate.

6. Are online dentist reviews reliable?

Online reviews can help, but they do not tell the full story. Use them as a starting point but not as your only proof. Do not rely on one short post. Try to notice what people say about how staff communicate. Also check what they mention about the actual treatment, how professional the team is and how appointments are handled. Aftercare matters too. You should also look at the clinic’s credentials and skills.

7. What questions should I bring to my first dental visit?

A first appointment is a chance to learn what is going on in your mouth. It is also when you can talk through next steps with the dentist. Make sure you know what the suggested treatment includes. Before you book, ask how many visits you might need. Also ask how long the full plan usually takes. Then ask what you should do after the work is done, including any home care steps.

8. How much does equipment matter when picking a dental clinic?

How a dentist checks your mouth depends on the tools. Many clinics now use newer items. For example, they may use digital X-rays, a small camera for inside views and 3D scans. These tools can make it easier to spot issues earlier. Even so, the equipment by itself does not mean you will get better care. A clinic may have the latest tech but it must be backed by a skilled team. In general, you want a clinic that pairs the right equipment with a solid dental team.

9. What should I think about when comparing dental treatment options?

Ask why you need treatment in the first place. Then look at each option and what you can expect from it. Get details on possible downsides. Also ask how often those issues show up. You should also ask how long each plan takes. Finally, ask how well each option tends to last over time. Some treatments need more maintenance than others. Also compare total cost, not just the fee for the procedure.