Looking for a Good Dentist in Thailand Here Are the Best Local Options

Looking for a Good Dentist in Thailand? Here Are the Best Local Options

If you’re staying in Thailand long term or popping over for a dental trip, you’ll quickly hear the same thing from locals and expats: the country is a fantastic place to see a dentist. You get modern clinics, English-speaking teams, and fair pricing, all delivered with the famous Thai smile. Whether you’re near a BTS station in Bangkok or chilling by the beach in Phuket, there’s a clinic to suit your needs and budget.

How to choose a dentist in Thailand

Before we jump into where to go, here’s how people in Thailand usually shortlist a clinic:

- Credentials and specialty: Check if the dentist is registered with the Dental Council of Thailand. For braces, implants, or root canals, look for a specialist (orthodontist, implantologist, endodontist, etc.).

- Reviews in both English and Thai: Google Maps reviews tell you a lot. Thai-language reviews often give detailed feedback on queue times, prices, and service.

- Sterilization standards and tech: Ask about autoclave sterilization, digital X-rays, and 3D scans for implants. Reputable clinics will happily explain their hygiene protocols.

- Communication: Many clinics have English-speaking staff. If you prefer LINE for updates, ask for the clinic’s LINE ID—most clinics use it for reminders.

- Location and convenience: In Bangkok, being near BTS or MRT saves time. If you drive, check parking and whether the clinic validates.

- Transparent pricing: Ask for a written treatment plan with itemized costs in baht. In Thailand, it’s normal to request a second opinion—no worries, nobody will be offended.

The best local options by category

University dental hospitals (great value, thorough care)

- Chulalongkorn University Dental Hospital (Bangkok): Well-known for specialist care, from prosthodontics to oral surgery. Fees are friendly, but appointments can take longer because students work under supervision.

- Mahidol University Faculty of Dentistry (Bangkok): Another top-tier choice with strong research and specialist clinics. Expect careful diagnostics and clear treatment plans.

- Chiang Mai University Faculty of Dentistry (Chiang Mai): A solid pick up north, popular with locals who want expert care without Bangkok prices.

- Khon Kaen University Faculty of Dentistry (Isaan): Convenient for the northeast, with specialists and fair pricing.

These hospitals are ideal if you don’t mind a bit more waiting in exchange for value-for-money treatment and academic-level care.

Reputable private dental centers (fast, premium, English-friendly)

- Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDC), Ratchadapisek: Large, modern center known for implants, cosmetic dentistry, and international-standard protocols. Good for coordinated multi-specialty cases.

- Thantakit International Dental Center, Phetchaburi Road: Long-established clinic with full-service care, including crowns, veneers, and oral surgery. Offers airport-hotel-clinic assistance for dental tourists.

- Bangkok Smile Dental Clinic, Sukhumvit: Easy access near BTS, friendly teams, and popular for whitening, veneers, and general dentistry.

- Bumrungrad Dental Center, Sukhumvit: Hospital-based dental care with comprehensive diagnostics and medical backup—a plus if you have complex health needs.

- Bangkok Hospital Dental Center: Another hospital-based option with multiple specialties and direct insurance billing for some plans.

- Sea Smile Dental Clinic (Phuket): Handy for beach-g

oers, with implant and cosmetic services and English-speaking coordinators.

- Chiang Mai International dental options: Well-rated independent clinics around Nimman and the Old City provide cleanings, fillings, and crowns with lower overhead than Bangkok.

Neighborhood clinics near BTS/MRT (convenient and affordable)

All along Sukhumvit—Asok, Phrom Phong, Thonglor, Ekkamai—as well as Ari, Sala Daeng, and Udom Suk, you’ll find clean, family-run clinics with English signage. These are excellent for check-ups, scaling, fillings, and simple extractions. Many accept walk-ins, but it’s still better to book ahead on LINE to avoid waiting. If you’re outside central Bangkok, look along your soi for “Dental Clinic” signs—plenty of gems are tucked into shophouses.

What treatments cost in Thailand

Prices vary by clinic, materials, and dentist experience, but these ballpark ranges help you plan:

- Check-up and scaling: roughly 800–1,500 THB

- Composite filling: roughly 1,000–2,500 THB per surface

- Root canal (front tooth to molar): roughly 5,000–12,000 THB

- Porcelain crown: roughly 10,000–20,000 THB

- Dental implant (fixture + crown): commonly 50,000–80,000+ THB per tooth

Hospital-based centers and big-name clinics tend to be at the higher end. Neighborhood clinics and university hospitals can be more budget-friendly. If you have Thai social security through your employer, there’s usually an annual dental allowance for basic care—ask your HR or clinic for the latest details. International insurance? Some clinics do direct billing; otherwise, request an English receipt for reimbursement.

What the appointment flow looks like

- Booking: Make an appointment via phone, LINE, or the clinic website. For bigger procedures, the clinic might ask for a deposit.

- Consultation: You’ll get an exam and possibly X-rays. Don’t be shy—ask for options and a breakdown in baht.

- Treatment: Simple work can often be done same day. For crowns, aligners, or implants, expect a few visits. Many clinics now use digital scanners instead of gooey impressions.

- Comfort: Local anesthesia is standard, and sedation is available at many centers for nervous patients. If you’re concerned, say it upfront—Thai staff are usually very gentle and patient.

- Aftercare: You’ll get written instructions. Add the clinic on LINE for quick questions—super convenient.

If you’re planning dental tourism

- Build in buffer days. Don’t schedule major work right before flying out; swelling or adjustments can happen.

- Share your medical history and medications. Bring any previous X-rays or records on a USB or email.

- Ask for a clear timeline. Implants often require healing periods; veneers and crowns can be faster but still need lab time.

Quick tips locals swear by

- Check opening hours—many clinics open late and on weekends.

- If traffic is heavy, pick a clinic near BTS/MRT. Your future self will say khop khun ka/krub.

- For kids, choose a clinic with a pediatric dentist and a play corner—makes the visit same-same but better.

- Always get a detailed receipt and keep photos of your treatment plan.

The bottom line

Thailand offers a wide spectrum of dental care, from friendly soi clinics to university hospitals and premium centers. Start with your needs and budget, shortlist a few options, and look at recent reviews. With a little homework, you’ll find a dentist who communicates clearly, works to international standards, and keeps your smile in great shape—without breaking the bank.