The questions people ask first.
Answers to what comes up most. Anything else? Email support@dentsecond.com.
Is this a replacement for seeing a dentist?
No. dentsecond is an opinion service for informational purposes only — we don’t prescribe or treat. Always consult your local dentist before making treatment decisions.
How long does it take to get a second opinion?
Most opinions are delivered within 12–24 hours after submission. The reviewing dentist may message you with a clarifying question first — that’s normal.
What should I send?
Whatever you have: a photo of the area, x-rays from a recent visit, a treatment plan or printout, or just a written description of what’s bothering you. We accept any format.
Who reviews my case?
Every case is read by a US-licensed dentist who has been personally vetted through dentsecond’s in-person credentialing process. No AI, no outsourcing.
Can I edit my request after submitting?
You can edit your request while it’s in Pending status. Once a dentist starts reviewing, the original submission is locked to keep the opinion tied to a specific set of facts.
What if the dentist needs more information?
You’ll see a "Reply needed" notification on your home screen. Tap it to respond with additional notes or photos — included with your case at no extra charge.
How do I cancel a request?
Open your request and choose Cancel. This is available while the request is Pending. Refunds are reviewed case-by-case.
How do refunds work?
If we can’t match you with a reviewer within 48 hours, you get a full refund. For other situations, contact support@dentsecond.com and we’ll review case-by-case.
Is my information secure?
Your records are encrypted in transit and at rest, and only shared with the reviewing dentist. We don’t sell or share your data with anyone.
Do I need to live in California?
For now, yes. dentsecond is currently available to California residents only because our reviewing dentists are licensed in California.
Can I get a dental second opinion online?
Yes. dentsecond is an online service — you submit photos, x-rays, and your description through the website, and a licensed dentist reviews your case remotely and writes back within 12–24 hours. No video call or appointment required.
I was told I need a root canal (or crown, or extraction). Should I get a second opinion?
Many patients seek a second opinion when a proposed treatment is irreversible, expensive, or they simply want more clarity. A second opinion can confirm the recommendation or give you additional context to consider before committing. It is a routine step — not a sign of distrust.
What if the second opinion disagrees with my dentist?
Our dentist will share their observations in writing. If the assessments differ, you will have two professional perspectives to bring back to your dentist for discussion. We are not a replacement for your treating dentist — we give you more information to make a confident decision.
Is a dental second opinion covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans do not cover online second opinion services like dentsecond. We charge a flat fee at the time of submission. Some FSA and HSA accounts do cover dental services — check with your plan administrator.
How do I know if I actually need the dental work my dentist recommended?
That is exactly what a second opinion is for. Share the treatment plan, any x-rays you have, and a description of your symptoms. A second dentist will review the evidence and share their perspective on whether the proposed treatment aligns with what they see.
How much does a dental second opinion cost in California?
A dentsecond second opinion is $29, paid once at submission. There is no subscription, no recurring charge, and follow-up clarifying questions are included. Pricing is the same whether your case is simple or complex — you pay once and get a written opinion within 12–24 hours.
When should I get a dental second opinion?
Common moments to consider one: before agreeing to a root canal, crown, extraction, implant, or full-mouth treatment plan; when an estimate seems unusually high; when you have moved providers and want to confirm what is actually needed; or when something feels rushed. Second opinions are routine in medicine and dentistry — most established dentists expect and welcome them.
Can I get a second opinion before a root canal?
Yes — this is one of the most common reasons people use dentsecond. Submit a photo of the area, any x-rays your dentist provided, and the treatment plan. A licensed dentist will review whether the diagnosis (typically deep decay or pulpal involvement) is consistent with what your records show, and whether more conservative options (large filling, indirect pulp cap) might be reasonable to discuss.
How is a dental second opinion different from a regular dental visit?
A regular visit involves a hands-on exam, sometimes new x-rays, and the option of treatment that day. A dental second opinion is informational — a licensed dentist reviews the records you already have and shares their professional perspective in writing. It is faster, cheaper, and lets you read the opinion at your own pace before any decision.
Is dentsecond a real dentist or AI?
Every case is reviewed by a real, US-licensed dentist who has been personally credentialed by our team. We do not use AI to diagnose, summarize, or write opinions. The written opinion you receive is composed by the reviewing dentist, signed, and tied to their license number.