Top 5 EHR for Dental Clinics 2026: Complete Comparison & Buyer's Guide

Choosing the right dental EHR is one of the most critical decisions for your practice. A generic medical EHR simply cannot handle the specialized needs of dentistry—from periodontal charting and treatment planning to imaging integration and complex dental billing with CDT codes.

This guide compares the top 5 dental EHR systems for 2026, covering features, pricing, and which practices they serve best across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

For additional context, see our Dental Clinic Management Software Guide and Clinic Management Software for Dental Clinics.

Why Dental Practices Need Specialized EHR Software

Clinical Requirements:

• Odontograms and periodontal charting
• Tooth-specific condition tracking
• Treatment planning with sequencing
• Imaging integration (X-rays, panoramic, CBCT)
• Procedure notes and protocols

Operational Needs:

• CDT code management
• Insurance verification and claims
• Treatment plan presentation
• Appointment scheduling with operatory management
• Recall and hygiene tracking

Financial Complexity:

• Mix of insurance and private pay
• Treatment plan estimates
• Payment plans and financing
• Insurance coordination of benefits
• Production and collection reporting

Must-Have Features for Dental EHR in 2026

Clinical Charting

• Odontogram — Visual tooth charting with conditions and treatments
• Periodontal Charting — Probing depths, bleeding, mobility, furcation
• Treatment Notes — Procedure-specific templates
• Medical/Dental History — Comprehensive patient background
• Prescriptions — E-prescribing for medications

Imaging Integration

• Sensor Compatibility — Works with major X-ray sensors (DEXIS, Carestream, Schick, etc.)
• Image Acquisition — Capture directly from sensors
• Image Storage — Organized by tooth, date, type
• Image Viewing — Tools for measurement, annotation, enhancement
• CBCT Support — 3D imaging for implants and complex cases

Treatment Planning

• Multi-Phase Plans — Sequence complex treatment
• Financial Estimates — Insurance and patient portions
• Alternative Plans — Present options to patients
• Plan Tracking — Monitor completion and acceptance
• Visual Presentation — Patient-friendly treatment plan display

Scheduling

• Operatory Management — Multiple chairs and providers
• Appointment Types — Different durations and requirements
• Recall System — Automated hygiene and exam reminders
• Waitlist — Fill cancellations quickly
• Online Booking — Patient self-scheduling

Billing & Insurance

• CDT Codes — Current dental procedure codes
• Insurance Verification — Real-time eligibility checking
• Claims Submission — Electronic to clearinghouses
• ERA/EFT — Electronic remittance and payments
• Treatment Plan Estimates — Accurate insurance breakdowns
• Payment Plans — Financing and installments

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Top 5 Dental EHR Systems for 2026

1. Dentrix — Best for Established Practices

Overview: Dentrix is the market leader in dental software, used by over 50,000 practices. It offers comprehensive features with deep integration capabilities, ideal for established practices wanting proven technology.

Key Strengths:

• ✅ Industry standard with largest market share
• ✅ Comprehensive feature set
• ✅ Extensive imaging integration
• ✅ Robust treatment planning
• ✅ Strong reporting and analytics
• ✅ Large support network
• ✅ Third-party integrations available

Clinical Features:

• Advanced odontogram and charting
• Periodontal charting with graphics
• Comprehensive treatment planning
• Image management (Dentrix Imaging)
• E-prescribing integration
• Clinical notes and templates

Business Features:

• Sophisticated scheduling
• Insurance management and claims
• Payment processing
• Recall and hygiene tracking
• Production reports
• Multi-location support

Pricing:

• $500-800/month per practice (server-based)
• Cloud option: $300-500/month
• Implementation: $3,000-10,000
• Training fees additional
• Requires quote for exact pricing

Best For:

• Established practices (5+ years)
• Multi-doctor practices
• Practices wanting proven technology
• Practices with IT support
• Practices needing extensive integrations

Limitations:

• Expensive
• Server-based version requires on-site hardware
• Dated interface
• Steep learning curve
• Can feel bloated with features

2. Eaglesoft — Best for Clinical Workflow

Overview: Eaglesoft by Patterson Dental is known for its strong clinical workflow and intuitive charting, making it popular among dentists who prioritize chairside efficiency.

Key Strengths:

• ✅ Excellent clinical charting interface
• ✅ Strong imaging integration
• ✅ Intuitive treatment planning
• ✅ Good perio charting
• ✅ Solid reporting
• ✅ Patterson Dental support network
• ✅ Hardware bundling options

Clinical Features:

• User-friendly odontogram
• Comprehensive perio charting
• Treatment planning with visuals
• Image management
• E-prescribing
• Clinical notes templates

Business Features:

• Appointment scheduling
• Insurance and claims management
• Payment processing
• Recall system
• Production reports
• Multi-location support

Pricing:

• $400-700/month per practice
• Cloud option available
• Implementation: $2,000-8,000
• Training included
• Requires quote

Best For:

• Practices prioritizing clinical workflow
• Patterson Dental equipment users
• Multi-doctor practices
• Practices wanting strong support

Limitations:

• Expensive
• Tied to Patterson ecosystem
• Less third-party integration than Dentrix
• Server-based version requires hardware
• Some features feel dated

3. Open Dental — Best for Customization & Value

Overview: Open Dental is an open-source dental software that offers extensive customization at a lower price point, ideal for tech-savvy practices wanting control and flexibility.

Key Strengths:

• ✅ Open-source and customizable
• ✅ Affordable pricing
• ✅ Active user community
• ✅ Frequent updates
• ✅ No vendor lock-in
• ✅ API for custom integrations
• ✅ Cloud or server options

Clinical Features:

• Comprehensive charting
• Perio charting
• Treatment planning
• Image management
• E-prescribing integration
• Customizable templates

Business Features:

• Flexible scheduling
• Insurance and claims
• Payment processing
• Recall management
• Reporting and analytics
• Multi-location support

Pricing:

• $169/month per workstation (cloud)
• $349 one-time per workstation (server)
• Support: $99/month per practice
• No implementation fees
• Transparent pricing

Best For:

• Tech-savvy practices
• Practices wanting customization
• Budget-conscious practices
• Practices wanting data ownership
• Developers who want API access

Limitations:

• Requires technical knowledge for customization
• Interface less polished than commercial options
• Support is community-based (paid support available)
• Steeper learning curve for advanced features
• Less hand-holding during setup

4. Curve Dental — Best Cloud-Based Solution

Overview: Curve Dental is a 100% cloud-based dental software with no servers required, offering modern design and accessibility from anywhere with internet.

Key Strengths:

• ✅ 100% cloud-based (no servers)
• ✅ Modern, clean interface
• ✅ Access from anywhere
• ✅ Automatic updates
• ✅ Strong imaging integration
• ✅ Good mobile access
• ✅ Excellent uptime

Clinical Features:

• Intuitive charting
• Perio charting
• Treatment planning
• Cloud-based imaging
• E-prescribing
• Clinical templates

Business Features:

• Cloud scheduling
• Insurance management
• Claims processing
• Payment processing
• Recall system
• Analytics and reporting

Pricing:

• $399-599/month per practice
• Per-provider pricing available
• Implementation: $1,000-3,000
• Training included
• Requires quote

Best For:

• Practices wanting no servers
• Multi-location practices
• Mobile practitioners
• Practices with remote staff
• Startups and new practices

Limitations:

• Requires reliable internet
• Monthly cost adds up over time
• Less customization than Open Dental
• Fewer third-party integrations than Dentrix
• Some features require higher tiers

5. ClinikEHR — Best for Modern, AI-Powered Practices

Overview: ClinikEHR offers a modern, lightweight alternative for dental practices that want AI-powered efficiency, simple workflows, and transparent pricing without the complexity of legacy systems.

Key Strengths:

• ✅ AI-powered clinical notes (saves 15-20 min per patient)
• ✅ Modern, intuitive interface
• ✅ Cloud-based with mobile access
• ✅ Transparent, affordable pricing
• ✅ Quick implementation (1-2 weeks)
• ✅ Excellent for general dentistry
• ✅ Integrated telehealth
• ✅ Online booking and patient portal

Clinical Features:

• Dental charting and odontogram
• Treatment notes with AI assistance
• Digital consent forms
• Medical/dental history
• E-prescribing integration
• Photo management

Business Features:

• Smart scheduling
• Insurance verification
• Claims submission
• Payment processing
• Automated reminders
• Reporting and analytics

Pricing:

• $149-299/month per provider
• All features included
• No hidden fees
• Free onboarding
• 30-day free trial

Best For:

• Solo and small group practices (1-5 dentists)
• General dentistry practices
• Practices wanting AI efficiency
• Tech-forward practices
• Practices tired of bloated legacy systems
• Startups and new practices

Limitations:

• Newer platform (less legacy integration)
• Not ideal for large DSOs (20+ locations)
• Fewer specialty features than Dentrix
• Limited third-party integrations (growing)

Learn More: ClinikEHR for Dental Practices

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Feature Comparison Table

Feature	Dentrix	Eaglesoft	Open Dental	Curve Dental	ClinikEHR
Odontogram	✅ Excellent	✅ Excellent	✅ Good	✅ Good	✅ Good
Perio Charting	✅ Excellent	✅ Excellent	✅ Good	✅ Good	✅ Good
Treatment Planning	✅ Excellent	✅ Excellent	✅ Good	✅ Good	✅ Good
Imaging Integration	✅ Extensive	✅ Strong	✅ Good	✅ Good	✅ Basic
AI Features	❌	❌	❌	❌	✅ Strong
Cloud-Based	⚠️ Optional	⚠️ Optional	✅	✅	✅
E-Prescribing	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Online Booking	⚠️ Add-on	⚠️ Add-on	✅	✅	✅
Mobile Access	⚠️ Limited	⚠️ Limited	✅	✅ Excellent	✅ Excellent
Pricing/Month	$500-800	$400-700	$169+	$399-599	$149-299
Setup Time	4-12 weeks	4-10 weeks	2-6 weeks	2-4 weeks	1-2 weeks
Best For	Established	Clinical Focus	Customization	Cloud-First	Modern/AI

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How to Choose the Right Dental EHR

Consider Your Practice Size

Solo Practice (1 dentist):

• ClinikEHR — Modern, affordable, AI-powered
• Open Dental — If tech-savvy and budget-conscious
• Curve Dental — If cloud-first is priority

Small Group (2-5 dentists):

• ClinikEHR — Scalable with transparent pricing
• Curve Dental — Cloud-based flexibility
• Open Dental — Customization and value

Medium Practice (6-15 dentists):

• Dentrix — Comprehensive features
• Eaglesoft — Strong clinical workflow
• Curve Dental — Multi-location cloud

Large Practice/DSO (15+ dentists):

• Dentrix — Industry standard
• Eaglesoft — Patterson ecosystem
• Curve Dental — Enterprise cloud

Consider Your Specialty

General Dentistry:

• ClinikEHR — Excellent for general practice
• Any of the top 5 work well

Pediatric Dentistry:

• Dentrix — Comprehensive features
• Eaglesoft — Good clinical workflow

Orthodontics:

• Specialized ortho software recommended
• Dentrix with ortho module

Oral Surgery:

• Dentrix — Comprehensive
• Eaglesoft — Strong clinical features

Periodontics:

• Dentrix — Excellent perio charting
• Eaglesoft — Strong perio features

Consider Your Budget

Under $200/provider/month:

• ClinikEHR ($149-299)
• Open Dental ($169+)

$200-500/provider/month:

• Curve Dental
• Eaglesoft
• Dentrix (cloud)

$500+/provider/month:

• Dentrix (server-based)
• Enterprise solutions

Consider Your Tech Comfort

Want Simple & Modern:

• ClinikEHR — Intuitive, AI-assisted
• Curve Dental — Clean cloud interface

Want Comprehensive & Proven:

• Dentrix — Industry standard
• Eaglesoft — Strong clinical focus

Want Customizable:

• Open Dental — Open-source flexibility

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Critical Features to Test During Trials

Charting Workflow

1. Chart a complete exam with multiple conditions
2. Create a treatment plan with multiple phases
3. Update existing conditions
4. Generate treatment notes
5. Verify speed and intuitiveness

Red Flags:

• Too many clicks to chart
• Confusing interface
• Slow performance
• Limited templates

Imaging Integration

1. Capture images from your sensor
2. Store and organize images
3. View and annotate images
4. Compare images over time
5. Verify sensor compatibility

Red Flags:

• Sensor not supported
• Difficult image capture
• Poor image quality
• Limited viewing tools

Scheduling Workflow

1. Book multiple appointment types
2. Manage multiple operatories
3. Handle conflicts and double-booking
4. Set up recall appointments
5. Test online booking

Red Flags:

• Confusing schedule view
• Can't manage multiple ops
• No color coding
• Poor recall system

Billing Workflow

1. Create treatment plan estimate
2. Verify insurance eligibility
3. Submit a claim
4. Post a payment
5. Run production report

Red Flags:

• Inaccurate estimates
• No real-time eligibility
• Difficult claims submission
• Poor reporting

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Common Dental EHR Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Choosing Based on Price Alone

Problem: Cheapest option may lack critical features Solution: Evaluate total value including features, support, and efficiency gains

Mistake 2: Not Testing Imaging Integration

Problem: Discover sensor incompatibility after purchase Solution: Verify your specific sensor model is supported and test during trial

Mistake 3: Ignoring Staff Input

Problem: Staff resist new system they didn't help choose Solution: Include front desk, hygienists, and assistants in evaluation

Mistake 4: Underestimating Training Time

Problem: Poor adoption due to insufficient training Solution: Budget adequate time for training and expect 2-4 weeks adjustment period

Mistake 5: Not Planning Data Migration

Problem: Lose patient data or spend months manually entering Solution: Verify migration support and get timeline before committing

Mistake 6: Overlooking Cloud vs. Server

Problem: Unexpected hardware costs or internet dependency Solution: Decide cloud vs. server based on your infrastructure and needs

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Implementation Timeline & Best Practices

Weeks 1-2: Planning

• Document current workflows
• Identify pain points
• List must-have features
• Get team input
• Schedule demos

Weeks 3-4: Evaluation

• Trial 2-3 top choices
• Test complete workflows
• Verify imaging integration
• Get staff feedback
• Compare total costs

Weeks 5-6: Decision

• Choose platform
• Negotiate pricing
• Sign contract
• Schedule implementation
• Assign project lead

Weeks 7-10: Data Migration

• Export data from old system
• Clean up data
• Import to new system
• Verify accuracy
• Set up templates and preferences

Weeks 11-12: Training

• Train dentists
• Train hygienists
• Train front desk
• Train assistants
• Create quick reference guides

Weeks 13-14: Go Live

• Soft launch with limited patients
• Monitor closely
• Address issues immediately
• Gather feedback
• Full launch

Pro Tip: Choose a system like ClinikEHR with free onboarding to ensure smooth implementation.

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Related Resources

ClinikEHR Guides

• Dental Clinic Management Software Guide
• Clinic Management Software for Dental Clinics
• Best Guide to Setting Up a Dental Clinic (International)
• Dental Clinic Equipment List (International)
• Private Practice Software Guide

External Resources

• American Dental Association: https://www.ada.org/
• Dental Economics: https://www.dentaleconomics.com/
• Dentistry IQ: https://www.dentistryiq.com/
• British Dental Association (UK): https://bda.org/
• Canadian Dental Association: https://www.cda-adc.ca/
• Australian Dental Association: https://www.ada.org.au/

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between dental EHR and practice management software? Modern systems combine both. EHR handles clinical charting and records, while practice management handles scheduling, billing, and administrative tasks. An integrated system is best for efficiency.

Do I need cloud-based or server-based dental software? Cloud-based is the modern standard—no servers to maintain, access from anywhere, automatic updates, and better disaster recovery. Server-based may be preferred if you have unreliable internet or want complete data control.

How much does dental EHR software cost? Costs range from $150-800/month per provider. ClinikEHR offers comprehensive features at $149-299/month. Legacy systems like Dentrix can cost $500-800/month plus implementation fees of $3,000-10,000.

Can I switch dental EHR systems easily? Switching is possible but requires planning. Most vendors offer data migration services. Expect 2-3 months for complete transition. Choose carefully to avoid frequent switching.

What imaging sensors are compatible with dental EHR? Major systems support DEXIS, Carestream, Schick, Gendex, and other popular sensors. Always verify your specific sensor model is supported before purchasing. ClinikEHR supports major sensor brands.

Do I need separate software for imaging? Not necessarily. Many modern EHRs include integrated imaging. Some practices prefer dedicated imaging software (like Dexis or Carestream) that interfaces with their EHR.

How long does it take to implement dental EHR? Simple systems like ClinikEHR: 1-2 weeks. Mid-range systems: 4-8 weeks. Complex systems like Dentrix: 8-12 weeks. Factor in data migration and training time.

Can dental EHR help with insurance claims? Yes—modern systems verify eligibility, create accurate estimates, submit claims electronically, and track payments. This significantly reduces claim denials and speeds reimbursement.

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Conclusion: Choose Software That Enhances Your Practice

The right dental EHR should make your practice more efficient, improve patient care, and provide better financial insights—not add complexity to your day. For most small to medium dental practices in 2026, the choice depends on your priorities.

Key Takeaways:

• ✅ Test imaging integration with your specific sensors
• ✅ Involve your entire team in the decision
• ✅ Consider total cost including implementation and training
• ✅ Cloud-based is the modern standard
• ✅ AI features can save significant time
• ✅ Choose based on your practice size and specialty

Quick Decision Guide:

• Best Overall Value: ClinikEHR — Modern, AI-powered, affordable
• Best for Established Practices: Dentrix — Industry standard
• Best for Clinical Workflow: Eaglesoft — Intuitive charting
• Best for Customization: Open Dental — Open-source flexibility
• Best Cloud Solution: Curve Dental — 100% cloud-based

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Modernize Your Dental Practice with ClinikEHR

Ready to streamline your dental practice with modern technology? ClinikEHR offers everything you need:

✅ AI Clinical Notes — Generate treatment notes in seconds ✅ Intuitive Charting — Odontogram and perio charting ✅ Cloud-Based — Access from anywhere, no servers ✅ E-Prescribing — Integrated medication management ✅ Online Booking — Patients schedule 24/7 ✅ Insurance Management — Verify, estimate, submit claims ✅ Transparent Pricing — $149-299/month, all-inclusive ✅ Quick Setup — Go live in 1-2 weeks

Start Your Free 30-Day Trial — No credit card required. Experience modern dental software designed for efficiency.

Questions about dental EHR? Contact our team — We're here to help you choose the right solution.

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Disclaimer: Dental software requirements and regulations vary by location. Ensure your chosen EHR meets local compliance requirements for clinical documentation, imaging, and billing. This article provides general information for educational purposes and does not constitute professional advice.