Provider verification policy
How we confirm that every listed provider exists, holds an active license, and is presented accurately.
DentistGrid is a directory built on public records. Every listing is anchored to a verifiable identity in the federal NPI registry and, where available, the appropriate state dental board.
Identity sources we use
- CMS NPPES (NPI Registry). Primary source for legal name, NPI number, NPI type (individual or organization), taxonomy/specialty, practice address, and enumeration/last-updated dates. See NPPES explained.
- State dental boards. Used to confirm an active license to practice in the state shown. See the state board verification directory.
- Provider attestation. When a provider claims a listing, additional fields (hours, accepted insurance, services, languages, accessibility, photos) are submitted by the provider and verified through our claim verification process.
What "licensed provider" means on DentistGrid
When we surface a provider, we are stating that an NPI record exists for that name and that, at the time of the most recent check, the state board's public license lookup returned a matching active record. We are not guaranteeing scope of practice, malpractice history, board actions, or current employment at a specific clinic. Patients are always responsible for confirming licensure and good standing directly with the state board before booking care.
What we display on every profile
- NPI number and NPI type
- Legal name from NPPES
- Primary taxonomy/specialty and taxonomy code
- Practice address from NPPES
- NPPES enumeration date and most recent NPPES update date
- "Source: CMS NPPES" label
- Direct link to verify on the NPI Registry
- Direct link to verify on the state dental board
- "Last checked" date for the NPPES sync
How often we re-verify
See the data refresh schedule for cadence and per-field freshness.
Removals and disputes
Providers can request correction or removal through Update or remove a listing. Anyone can flag an inaccuracy through Report an incorrect listing. Our handling steps are described in the corrections policy.