Looking after your Dental Health in Japan[]
You should visit the dentist every 6 months, so it is well worth enrolling at a dental clinic near you once you have settled into your new life in Japan.
Most routine checkups and necessary dental procedures will be covered in part by National Health Insurance. For procedures which are covered by insurance, you will pay 30% of the overall cost. The remaining 70% is covered by the insurance. For procedures which are not covered by insurance, you will pay the full cost of treatment.
When visiting a Dental office for the first time, please take your National Health Insurance Card (that blue card) along with your Resident's Card (Zairyou Card) along with you. Most dentists speak only Japanese, but there are many English speaking dentists available. Most clinics require you to make an appointment in advance. You can do this either through their websites via an online reservation system or by calling the offices directly.
Procedures covered by national health insurance
- Routine cleanings and check-ups
- Cavity fillings
- Root Canal Surgeries
- Extractions
- Metal crowns
Procedures not covered by national health insurance
- Cosmetic Dentistry (Whitening, Bridges, Veneers etc)
- Unnecessary cleanings and checkups
- Porcelain/ Hybrid/ Zirconia Crowns
NB- Discuss procedures, costs and insurance coverage with your dentist before starting any procedure.
English Speaking Dentists in Tokyo[]
Here is a list of English speaking dentists in Tokyo. Many of them will also offer more modern treatment options such as white cavity fillings at little extra cost.
For more information on English speaking dentists in Tokyo, visit -> List of Tokyo English speaking dentists