Finding the best dentists in Chattanooga can be a challenge. With over 300 dental professionals practicing in and around Hamilton County, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming. You want someone who listens, explains things clearly, and actually makes you feel comfortable sitting in that chair.
According to the American Dental Association, only about 45% of Americans visited a dentist in 2022. For many, the barrier isn’t just cost or insurance. It’s simply not knowing where to start when searching for a provider they can trust.
To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of five highly regarded dental practices in the Chattanooga area. Each one brings something different to the table, from family-focused care to advanced cosmetic treatments. Here’s what you should know about each.
1. Peterson Family Dentistry
Address: 3328 Jenkins Rd Ste 100, Chattanooga, TN 37421 (also located at 9325 Apison Pike #119, Ooltewah, TN 37363)
Phone: (423) 206-9660 (Chattanooga) | (423) 396-4222 (Ooltewah-Collegedale)
Website: petersonfamilydentistry.com
Peterson Family Dentistry operates two convenient locations serving Chattanooga, Ooltewah, Collegedale, East Brainerd, Cleveland, and surrounding Hamilton County communities. Led by Dr. David Peterson, DDS, and Dr. Aaron Keiser, DDS, the practice focuses on making dental visits feel less clinical and more like visiting someone who genuinely cares about your well-being. They have over 700 five-star reviews on Google.
What sets them apart is their commitment to staying privately owned and non-corporate. In an era when dental support organizations are acquiring practices at record rates, Peterson Family Dentistry remains rooted in the community it serves. The team prioritizes building relationships with patients rather than rushing through appointments.
The practice offers comprehensive services spanning general and preventive dentistry, emergency care, cosmetic procedures, dental implants, and sedation options for patients with dental anxiety. Their modern offices are equipped with the latest technology, including digital imaging and advanced diagnostic tools.
For patients without insurance, Peterson Family Dentistry offers new patient specials including a $125 comprehensive exam with X-rays, or $199 for the exam, X-rays, and cleaning. They accept most PPO insurance plans and provide financing options through flexible payment arrangements.
Office hours run Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with Friday hours from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at both locations.
2. McOmie Family Dentistry
Address: 5999 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Phone: (423) 899-1112
Website: mcomiedentistry.com
Dr. Mark McOmie has built a reputation in Chattanooga over more than two decades of practice. McOmie Family Dentistry has been voted Best of the Best Cosmetic Dentist by the Chattanooga Free Press Tennessee Valley’s People Choice Awards for eight consecutive years (2018-2025) and also received recognition as Best Dental Implant Dentist in 2025.
The practice specializes in smile makeovers and complex restorative work. If you’ve been hiding your teeth in photos or avoiding certain foods because of dental problems, this is the kind of office that handles those situations regularly. Dr. McOmie is a member of the American Dental Association, Tennessee Dental Association, and Academy of Operative Dentistry.
Services include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners, root canal therapy, and TMJ treatment. The practice maintains an extensive before-and-after gallery showcasing real patient transformations.
Located on Shallowford Road near East Brainerd, McOmie Family Dentistry serves patients throughout Chattanooga, Ooltewah, Collegedale, Cleveland, Hixson, Tyner, and the surrounding areas. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
3. Smiles of Chattanooga
Address: 4618 Highway 58, Chattanooga, TN 37416
Phone: (423) 454-2181
Website: smilechattanooga.com
Smiles of Chattanooga takes a holistic approach to dental care, considering how oral health connects to your overall wellbeing. The practice has earned five Best of the Best Awards from the local newspaper, a reflection of their patient-centered philosophy.
Dr. Robert Gallien and Dr. Erin Eudaly lead the practice, offering everything from routine cleanings to full-mouth reconstructions under one roof. One standout feature is their CEREC technology, which allows for same-day crowns. Instead of wearing a temporary crown and returning weeks later, you can often complete the entire process in a single visit.
The practice also emphasizes patient comfort with amenities like neck pillows, blankets, and noise-canceling headphones during procedures. For those who need additional help relaxing, they offer two types of dental sedation.
Smiles of Chattanooga maintains extended hours that work for busy schedules. Tuesday appointments are available as early as 7:00 AM and as late as 7:00 PM. Standard hours run Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They’re particularly convenient for residents in zip codes 37415, 37416, 37341, 37343, 37421, and 37363.
4. East Hamilton Dental
Address: 8703 E Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421 (also at 1309 Panorama Dr #101, Chattanooga, TN 37421)
Phone: (423) 893-7443 (East Brainerd) | (423) 894-4084 (Panorama)
Website: easthamiltondental.com
East Hamilton Dental has provided dental care to Chattanooga families for more than 20 years through its two locations in East Brainerd and Panorama. The practice is led by Dr. Benjamin Perry and Dr. Allen Myers, who have cultivated a staff known for warmth and professionalism.
Dr. Myers has received the Pediatric Dentistry Alumni Association’s Award of Excellence, making this a particularly good option for families with children. The team handles everything from routine cleanings and preventive care to veneers, teeth whitening, dental implants, Invisalign, and emergency treatments.
Patients frequently mention the friendly atmosphere and efficient service. The offices are designed with patient comfort in mind, featuring custom murals throughout the treatment areas that help create a more relaxed environment.
East Hamilton Dental accepts most insurance plans and works with patients to make care accessible. Hours at the East Brainerd location are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
5. Dentist of Chattanooga (Dr. Gary L. White)
Address: 7805 East Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Phone: (423) 892-2919
Website: dentistofchattanooga.com
Dr. Gary L. White has practiced dentistry in the East Brainerd area for decades and is a lifelong resident of the community. He graduated from McCallie School and the University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences College of Dentistry.
What distinguishes this practice is Dr. White’s ongoing commitment to continuing education. He’s a member of the Chattanooga Area Dental Society, Tennessee Dental Association, American Dental Association, Academy of Operative Dentistry, Dawson Academy, and is currently a member and student of the Pankey Institute, which is renowned for its comprehensive approach to restorative and aesthetic dentistry.
The practice offers general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, and extractions for patients of all ages. Dr. White is known for taking time to explain procedures and answer questions thoroughly before beginning any treatment.
Located just three miles from Hamilton Place Mall, the office is easy to find. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How to Choose the Right Dentist in Chattanooga
With these five practices, you have options ranging from holistic approaches to cosmetic specialists to community-focused family practices. Here are a few things to consider as you make your choice:
Location and hours: Think about what fits your schedule. If you work traditional business hours, a practice with evening availability like Smiles of Chattanooga might be worth considering. If you’re closer to Ooltewah or Collegedale, Peterson Family Dentistry has a location that could cut down on your commute.
Services you need: Not every practice focuses on the same things. If cosmetic work is your priority, McOmie Family Dentistry’s track record speaks for itself. If you’re looking for comprehensive family care under one roof, Peterson Family Dentistry or East Hamilton Dental handle everything from kids’ cleanings to complex adult procedures.
Comfort level: Dental anxiety is real and more common than most people admit. Practices that offer sedation options and prioritize patient comfort can make a significant difference if you’ve been putting off care because of nerves.
Insurance and payment: Call ahead and verify your coverage before scheduling. Most of these practices work with PPO plans and offer financing for patients without insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentists in Chattanooga
How often should I visit the dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. For most people, that means every six months, though your dentist might suggest a different schedule based on your individual oral health needs. If you have gum disease, a history of cavities, or other concerns, more frequent visits may be beneficial.
What should I do in a dental emergency in Chattanooga?
If you have a dental emergency like a knocked-out tooth, severe pain, or a broken restoration, contact your dentist immediately. Many Chattanooga practices, including Peterson Family Dentistry, offer same-day emergency appointments. If your regular dentist isn’t available, most urgent care dental offices can provide temporary relief until you can be seen.
How much does a dental cleaning cost without insurance in Chattanooga?
Without insurance, a routine cleaning and exam in Chattanooga typically ranges from $100 to $250, depending on the practice and what’s included. Some offices offer new patient specials that can reduce this cost. Peterson Family Dentistry, for example, offers a $199 new patient package that includes the exam, X-rays, and cleaning.
Are Chattanooga dentists accepting new patients?
Yes, all five practices listed here are currently accepting new patients. Wait times for appointments vary, but most can schedule new patient visits within one to two weeks. For urgent needs, same-day or next-day appointments are often available.
What’s the difference between a family dentist and a general dentist?
In practice, there’s significant overlap. Both handle cleanings, fillings, crowns, and routine care. A family dentist typically emphasizes treating patients of all ages, from toddlers to seniors, and often builds long-term relationships with entire families. A general dentist may focus primarily on adult care or refer pediatric patients elsewhere.
Does dental insurance cover cosmetic procedures?
Most dental insurance plans don’t cover purely cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers. However, some procedures have both cosmetic and functional benefits. For example, a crown might be covered if it’s restoring a damaged tooth, even if it also improves appearance. Always check with your insurance provider and the dental office before scheduling.
Methodology Note: The practices featured in this article were selected based on factors including years of service in the Chattanooga community, patient reviews, range of services offered, professional credentials, and recognition from local and industry organizations. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other qualified dental professionals serving the Chattanooga area.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional dental advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any dental condition.
Why Choose Peterson Family Dentistry Chattanooga?
At Peterson Family Dentistry Chattanooga, we are committed to providing personalized, high-quality dental services for families in Chattanooga - Ooltewah - Collegedale, and surrounding areas. Whether you need preventive care, cosmetic enhancements, restorative treatments, or orthodontic solutions, our team ensures a stress-free, comfortable experience tailored to your needs.
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