How to check a dentist or orthodontist before starting braces, implants or crowns

1 November 2026 · How-to · Dental

Before paying for braces, clear aligners, implants or crowns, check that the dentist is registered with the Malaysian Dental Council, that anyone calling themselves an orthodontist is on the Council's specialist register, and get an itemised written treatment plan. Large dental bills are rarely covered by medical insurance, so the plan and price are worth checking as carefully as the credentials.

Check the person

Every dentist who practises in Malaysia must be registered with the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC) under the Dental Act 2018. Any general dentist can offer some orthodontic work, but only those on the MDC's specialist register can call themselves an orthodontist or specialist.

Get the treating dentist's full name, not just the clinic name.
Check the name on the MDC's online register of dental practitioners.
If you were told you are seeing an orthodontist, oral surgeon or other specialist, check the specialist register too.
Teeth-straightening sold by non-dentists, such as mail-order aligners without an in-person examination, is a red flag.

Check the plan and price

Long dental treatments are often sold as packages. Ask for an itemised written plan before you agree to anything.

Braces and aligners: total price, what it includes (records, X-rays, retainers, refinement aligners, review visits) and what happens if treatment runs longer.
Implants and crowns: the brand of implant or crown material, the number of visits, and the warranty and what voids it.
Payment: whether you pay in stages or upfront, and the refund policy if you move or stop.
Ask whether any part can be claimed under employer dental benefits, takaful riders or the Health and Well-being tax relief; most medical cards exclude routine and cosmetic dental work.

Check the clinic

Private dental clinics must be registered with the Ministry of Health under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998. Ask to see the registration certificate. A reputable clinic should be willing to give you X-rays and records if you want a second opinion elsewhere.

Our dental clinic and orthodontist pages list practices with the registrations we have checked. We do not publish before-and-after photos, outcome claims or treatment advice; a dentist who has examined you is the right person for that.

If you have a complaint

Raise it with the clinic in writing first. Complaints about a dentist's professional conduct go to the Malaysian Dental Council, and complaints about a clinic's premises or registration to the Ministry of Health. Keep your plan, receipts and any messages.

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Sources

Malaysian Dental Council — Malaysian Dental Council
Ministry of Health Malaysia — Ministry of Health Malaysia

Editorial summary written by Best Malaysia Healthcare. Not medical, legal or financial advice; check the original sources.