Expat Guide to Finding a Dentist in Geneva

Written by:

Jessica W

Last updated: 6 October, 2025

Going to the dentist is never fun. The blinding fluorescent lights, the scary drilling sounds, and receiving a giant bill at the end of this glorious experience is nightmare fuel. But finding a new dentist in a new country with a different healthcare system is just another added layer of stress. You might even be tempted to avoid going all together or wait until you go back to your home country, but sometimes, some things just can’t wait. We’re here to give you a 101 on going to the dentists in Geneva, so that you don’t have a panic attack just thinking about the d-word. 

Public vs. Private Dental Clinics

In Geneva, you’ll find two main types of dental clinics: public and private. The vast majority are private practices, which offer more flexibility, shorter wait times, and of course a higher price tag. 

There is one public option through the Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), which is a university facility. The treatments are considered much more affordable as they’re carried out by students or residents under expert supervision.

Does insurance cover dental? 

This is the million dollar question. The correct answer is, of course, you need to check your medical insurance coverage. Always call your insurance company in advance if you have any doubts or questions about what your plan covers. 

However, for most people, dental is usually not covered. Routine dental treatments like check-ups, cleanings, and fillings are not covered by basic Swiss health insurance, unless it involves serious dental problems that are caused by an illness or a severe accident. If you want dental to be covered, you would need to add a supplementary dental care plan to your insurance. 

So how much is a dentist visit going to cost me?

Without sounding like a broken jukebox, Geneva is expensive and dental care is no exception. 

Here’s a general idea of what to expect for a basic visit:

  • Dental cleaning CHF 130+ 
  • Routine check up CHF 150+ 
  • Cavity treatment CHF 200+
  • Wisdom teeth removal CHF 400+ per tooth 
  • More complex procedures can quickly climb into the thousands.

Most dental practices will have their rates listed on their websites, so you can get an idea of pricing. 

Can I just go to France (or elsewhere) to see the dentist?

Yes, most definitely. Many people that live in Geneva often seek treatment outside of Switzerland given that it is often cheaper. If you’re paying out-of-pocket anyways, it’s not a bad option to save some money. However, most Swiss insurance won’t cover cross-border care, if you have dental insurance. 

How to Find a Dentist in Geneva

  1. Search via onedoc.ch: Onedoc is essentially an online directory and booking system for healthcare professionals across Switzerland. It’s very user-friendly, you can search for doctors, dentists, therapists and other specialists by specialty, location, language spoken, and even whether they are accepting new patients. You can even book appointments directly online, without having to make a phone call (my favorite feature, as a millennial with phone-anxiety).
  2. Good ol’ word-of-mouth (WOM): Ask your friends, your neighbors, your colleagues who their dentist is and if they recommend them. If their faces glow up when they talk about their dentist, that is probably the strongest sign of endorsement. If you’re new in town, no worries, we have compiled a Las Genevistas recommended dentist directory below. 

When you’re looking for a dentist, make sure to check their specialty to match your needs. For anything complex or expensive, it is absolutely worth getting a second opinion. Don’t feel pressured to proceed with a major treatment until you’ve had a chance to think about it and consult with another professional. Compare prices. Your bank account will be better off! 

For non-French speakers, rest assured that the majority of dentists and hygienists speak English in Geneva (though the receptionist may not.)

Here are some recommended dentists from our community (in no particular order):

**** This directory is purely recommendation-based, sourced from our trusted expat community. Remember that personal experiences will always vary. We encourage you to take charge of your search—reach out, ask detailed questions, and arrange an initial consultation. The right doctor is a personal choice, and it’s essential they align with your needs and comfort. ****

Vaud

  • ACB Dentistes | Chavannes-de-Bogis, Gland, Nyon
    • Dr Nicolas Aucouturier

France

*I personally go to the CHD Cornavin for dental. The location is convenient for me, and the facilities are really amazing (Bose headphones? TV on the ceiling?). I have only gone for routine checks and cleans, and have been happy with the treatment I got. The receptionists have always been super friendly as well.

, , , , , ,

Discover more from Las Genevistas

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Leave a comment

Latest Articles

Previous:
Next:

Discover more from Las Genevistas

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading