For many people, the idea of visiting the dentist already brings a lot of stress and anxiety, and that feeling can be amplified when you’re trying to choose the right one. With so many choices available, it’s not always easy to know where to start or which practice will truly meet your needs.
But making the right decision is important. The dentist you trust with your oral health can make a real difference, not just to your comfort, but also to your long-term oral health!
We’ve put together a guide to five of the Sunshine Coast’s top-rated dental practices, helping you feel more confident in finding a provider that suits your needs and helps you make a confident, informed decision about your oral health.
What Makes a Great Dentist?
No two dental clinics are the same, and knowing what to look for can make all the difference when choosing the right provider. Taking a little extra time to research and prepare will help you ask the right questions before booking your appointment, and ultimately ensure you receive the best possible care.
Qualifications and Experience
At a minimum, every practising dentist in Australia must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This ensures they meet strict national safety and clinical competence standards. However, the best dentists go well beyond the basics.
Beyond that, look for practitioners who are members of the Australian Dental Association (ADA), as this reflects a commitment to professional standards and ethical practice.
Additional qualifications in areas such as orthodontics, implant dentistry, or cosmetic dentistry can also be a strong indicator of advanced expertise. While years of experience are important, what really sets top dentists apart is their dedication to ongoing professional development and staying up to date with the latest techniques and technology.
Patient Care and Communication
Technical skill is important. But a truly great dentist knows how to communicate clearly, listen carefully, and make patients feel comfortable throughout their care journey.
This is especially important if you experience dental anxiety. The best practices on the Sunshine Coast take a patient-first approach, offering gentle treatment techniques and anxiety-reducing options where appropriate.
Just as importantly, they take the time to explain procedures in simple terms, ensuring you understand your treatment options and feel confident in your decisions.
Range of Services Offered
Having access to a wide range of services under one roof not only improves convenience but also ensures continuity of care.
Ideally, your dentist should be able to provide routine check-ups and preventative care, cosmetic treatments, dental implants, orthodontics, emergency dentistry, and children’s dentistry. This comprehensive approach means fewer referrals, less time coordinating between clinics, and a more consistent understanding of your overall dental history.
Dental Technology
Modern dental technology also plays a major role in the quality of care you receive. The best dental practices on the Sunshine Coast invest in advanced equipment because it leads to more accurate diagnoses, more comfortable treatments, and better long-term outcomes.
Tools such as digital X-rays reduce radiation exposure while providing clearer imaging, and intraoral scanners replace messy traditional impressions with fast, precise digital scans. When a clinic uses up-to-date technology, it’s often a strong sign that they prioritise efficiency, precision, and patient comfort.
Pricing and Payment Transparency
Clear and upfront pricing is another key indicator of a trustworthy dental practice. They should be transparent about their fees from the start, helping you avoid unexpected costs or surprises after treatment.
Many reputable Sunshine Coast clinics also offer flexible payment options, accept a range of health funds, and provide payment plans to make dental care more accessible. When pricing is communicated clearly and honestly, it builds trust and allows you to focus on your treatment rather than financial uncertainty.
5 Best Dentists on the Sunshine Coast
1. Currey & Jorgensen Dentistry (CJ Dentistry)
About:
Currey & Jorgensen Dentistry (CJ Dentistry) is a locally trusted, fully accredited dental practice based in Alexandra Headland.
With strong roots in the Sunshine Coast community, the clinic is led by highly experienced clinicians who combine advanced training with a patient-first approach. Our team is known for delivering modern, evidence-based dentistry in a calm and supportive environment, helping patients feel confident and cared for at every visit.
Key Services:
- General dentistry
- Preventive Dental Care (dental check-ups, professional cleans, fluoride treatments, and ongoing oral hygiene guidance)
- Dental implants
- Cosmetic dentistry (veneers, whitening, crowns, bridges)
- Sedation dentistry (twilight sedation and happy gas)
- Clear aligners and orthodontics
- Mouth guards
- Emergency dental care (root canals, wisdom teeth, chipped or broken teeth, Lost Filling
- Dental Hygiene
- Family & Children’s dentistry
- Oral surgery
The CJ Dentistry Difference:
At CJ Dentistry, we combine advanced clinical expertise with genuine community connection to deliver a dental experience that feels both professional and personal. We believe great dentistry is about more than just treatment; it’s about people. Our approach is built on trust, transparency, and long-term relationships
Our practice is made up of a carefully selected team of dentists, hygienists, and support staff who are all dedicated to providing the highest standard of care. From your first appointment through to ongoing treatment, we focus on listening to your needs and offering tailored solutions, never unnecessary procedures or recommendations.
- Quality, Safety and Modern Care: We are committed to the highest standards of quality and safety, with a fully accredited clinic equipped with modern dental technology to improve accuracy, comfort, and outcomes. We also work closely with trusted local dental laboratories to ensure the highest level of care.
- Patient Care Comes First: With us, care goes beyond treatment. We prioritise clear communication and personalised treatment plans, building long-term trust while helping even anxious patients feel at ease.
- Comprehensive Dental Services: We provide a full range of dental services under one roof, including family, implant, cosmetic, and preventative dentistry. This allows for seamless continuity of coordinated, consistent, and tailored care and treatment for each patient.
- A Warm and Welcoming Team: From the moment you arrive, our team is focused on making you feel comfortable and welcome at every stage of your visit.
Key Qualifications:
- Dr Peter Jorgensen: Bachelor of Dental Science (University of Queensland, 1995), Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (Oral Implants) from the University of Sydney. ADA sub-branch president on the Sunshine Coast. Extensive experience in implant surgery, digital implant planning, and oral surgery.
- Dr Andrew Robinson: Graduate Diploma of Dentistry (Griffith University, 2013), Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (Oral Implants) from the University of Sydney, Master’s in Clinical Dentistry (Oral Surgery) from Griffith University. Member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (MRACDS), the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and the Academy of Osseointegration.
- Dr Michelle Pitt: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (University of Liverpool, 2012), Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Orthodontics. Special interest in minimally invasive dentistry and removable orthodontics.
- Dr Fiona Campbell: Bachelor of Dental Science with honours (University of Queensland, 2000). Member of the Australian Dental Association (ADA). Extensive experience in providing comprehensive general dentistry.
2. Kawana Dental
About:
One of the longest-running practices on the Sunshine Coast, Kawana Dental was founded in 1987 by Dr Michael Maltby.
The clinic is well known for its patient-first approach, particularly for nervous patients who benefit from sedation options and a calm, supportive environment. Their prevention-focused philosophy and family-friendly culture have built strong long-term loyalty, including offering free first visits for children to encourage early oral health habits.
Key Services:
- Family dentistry
- Invisalign and clear aligners,
- Cosmetic dentistry (veneers, whitening, crowns, bridges)
- Sedation dentistry (twilight sedation and happy gas)
- Wisdom teeth removal
- orthodontics
- Emergency care.
Key Qualifications:
- A team of 10+ general dentists, plus four hygienists/therapists and a surgical dentist. Individual postgraduate credentials are listed on each dentist’s website.
3. Avenue Dental
About:
Avenue Dental is a well-known dental group with a strong reputation for service, culture, and clinical quality. One of their standout features is their same-day emergency guarantee; if you call before 10 am, they aim to see you that same day.
With multiple Sunshine Coast locations, they also offer a 5-year warranty on major treatments, including crowns, veneers, bridges, and implants. Their large team structure allows patients to access a wide range of treatments, reducing the need for external referrals.
Key Services:
- General dentistry
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Invisalign
- Dental implants
- IV sedation
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Emergency dentistry
- Children’s dentistry
- Full-mouth rehabilitation.
Key Qualifications:
- Large multi-location group with a rotating roster of dentists across eight Sunshine Coast clinics. Individual dentist credentials vary by location.
- The group emphasises ongoing professional development and advanced training across cosmetic dentistry, implantology, Invisalign, and full-mouth rehabilitation.
4. Suncoast Dental
About:
Established in 2004, Suncoast Dental is known for its strong focus on patient comfort and clinical detail. The clinic features six surgery rooms and a dedicated recovery space for sedation patients, allowing them to manage both routine and complex procedures.
Led by experienced dentist Dr Ian Fettes, the practice places a strong emphasis on transparency. Every patient receives a clear treatment plan outlining options, costs, and expected outcomes before any treatment begins. Families also appreciate the child-friendly environment, designed to make visits easier and less stressful for young patients.
Key Services:
- General dentistry
- Dental implants
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Sedation dentistry
- Children’s dentistry
- Teeth whitening
- Dentures
- Root canal treatment
- Emergency dental care
Key Qualifications:
- Dr Ian Fettes: Bachelor of Dental Science (Edinburgh University). Over 40 years of experience, including 20 years practising in Zimbabwe before relocating to Australia in 2001.
- Dr Harry Goodman: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (James Cook University).
- Dan Tarasuik: Bachelor of Applied Science in Oral Health (Adelaide University, 2007). Oral health therapist/hygienist.
5. Sunny Coast Dental
About:
Sunny Coast Dental offers a boutique, relationship-based approach to dentistry. Led by Dr David Baker, the practice is built around continuity of care; patients see the same dentist consistently, allowing for stronger relationships and more personalised treatment over time.
The clinic invests in modern dental technology and takes a holistic view of patient care, considering medical history, lifestyle, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. As part of the Home Dentist Network, they also provide access to 24/7 emergency dental care, giving patients extra peace of mind outside standard hours.
Key Services:
- General dentistry
- Preventative care
- Cosmetic dentistry (veneers, whitening)
- Dental implants
- Children’s dentistry
- Emergency dental care (root canal treatment, wisdom tooth extraction)
- Sedation dentistry
- Mouthguards and snoring/sleep apnoea treatment
Key Qualifications:
- The practice emphasises state-of-the-art technology and continuing education, though individual postgraduate credentials are less prominently displayed compared to other practices on this list.
How to Choose the Right Dentist for Your Needs
Having a shortlist is a great start, but the next step is finding the practice that truly aligns with your individual needs, preferences, and long-term dental goals. The right dentist for one person isn’t always the right fit for another, so it’s worth taking a closer look at what matters most to you before booking an appointment.
Consider Your Dental Goals
Are you looking for routine preventive care, or do you have something more specific in mind, such as cosmetic improvements, teeth straightening, or replacing missing teeth?
If you know you need implants, for example, it makes sense to choose a practice with a dentist who specialises in implantology. If your priority is keeping the whole family’s teeth healthy, a practice with dedicated children’s services and a strong preventative focus may serve you better.
Location and Convenience
Convenience plays a bigger role than most people realise. A practice that is easy to reach from home or work is more likely to be visited consistently.
It’s also worth considering practical details like parking availability, public transport access, and opening hours. Some Sunshine Coast practices offer early morning, evening, or weekend appointments, which can be especially helpful for busy schedules. Easy online booking and responsive phone support can also make a big difference in your overall experience.
Budgeting and Payment Options
Dental care is an investment, and costs vary across practices. Be sure to ask whether the practice accepts your health fund, and whether they offer payment plans or different financing options. For families with eligible children, check whether the practice bulk-bills under the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS).
Comfort and Technology
Modern dentistry has come a long way, and the technology used in a clinic can make a big difference to your overall experience. Advanced equipment often means more accurate diagnoses, quicker appointments, and more comfortable treatments from start to finish.
Comfort is just as important as technology. For patients who feel anxious about dental visits, many clinics offer options to make treatment more relaxing, such as mild sedation or other calming techniques. These approaches are designed to reduce stress and help patients feel more at ease throughout their care.
Choosing the Best Dentist for Your Smile
The Sunshine Coast is fortunate to have some genuinely excellent dental practices. Whether you prioritise implant expertise, family-friendly care, multiple locations, sedation options, or a more personalised boutique experience, there is a practice that fits.
The most important thing is that you actually go. Regular dental visits are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your long-term health, and the right dentist makes all the difference!
Take the time to research, ask questions, and book a consultation with a practice that feels right for you. Your smile will thank you for it.
Ready to book? CJ Dentistry is currently accepting new patients.
Book a consultation today or call (07) 5479 5522 today!