Recognition on TheDentist.ai is positive-only, algorithmic, and never paid. This page explains exactly how a Verified Performance Score (VPS) is computed, what each tier means, and where the data comes from.
VPS is a composite, weighted score per recognition axis. It is built from inputs that can be verified independently — practice-published rates, NPPES registry data, anonymized patient survey responses (opt-in), Editorial Council review, and structured outcome questionnaires.
What VPS is not: star ratings, ad spend, or referral fees. We do not accept payment to influence rank.
Every dentist is evaluated across six axes. A dentist can be elevated on any subset — most are recognized on one or two where they actually excel.
Demonstrated workflow for fearful patients: longer first visits, transparent narration, sedation options disclosed.
Comfort with parent-and-child scheduling, age-appropriate explanations, behavior guidance training.
Published rates within regional FAIR Health medians, financing transparency, no surprise upcharges.
Geriatric and adult-with-disability competence: longer chair time, wheelchair access, caregiver involvement.
Practitioner or staff fluency confirmed, not just translation services. Language pairs explicitly listed.
Demonstrated long-term patient retention and consistent recall cadence — not churning new patients.
Each axis has four tiers. The default state is Listed — present in the directory, with no quality signal expressed either way. Absence of an elevated tier is never a negative judgment.
Every recognition tier change is logged with timestamp, input snapshot, and the reviewer (human Editorial Council member or named automated agent). Practitioners can request the audit trail for their own profile at any time.
Patient-facing AI content (the Smile Snapshot, plain-language condition descriptions) is generated by language models and surfaced as information, not diagnosis. AB 3030 disclosure is shown on every AI-assisted screen. Clinical recommendations are HITL — a licensed dentist must confirm.
This document is versioned. Material changes are announced at least 30 days before they affect any tier assignment. The current version is 2026.04.