Need an English-speaking dentist in Tokyo? Here's how to find one quickly and navigate the process smoothly:
- Start here: Use online tools like Myjin's dental directory to locate verified English-speaking clinics in Tokyo.
- Check these: Look for bilingual websites, staff profiles, and insurance acceptance details.
- Understand costs: Japan's National Health Insurance (NHI) covers 70% of basic dental treatments (e.g., cavity fillings cost ¥1,500–¥10,000). Cosmetic treatments like whitening aren't covered.
- Prepare ahead: Bring your insurance card, ID, and any medical history or medication lists.
Top clinics to consider:
- MY Dental Office Kojimachi: English-speaking staff, U.S.-trained dentist, accepts NHI.
- Tokyo Clinic Dental Office: U.S.-trained dentist, advanced treatments, does not accept NHI.
10 Best Dental Clinics in Japan (English speaking)
Dental Care Basics in Japan
Understanding Japan's dental insurance and clinic practices can help you navigate Tokyo's dental care system more effectively. Before visiting an English-speaking dentist, it's helpful to know how local dental care operates and what insurance covers.
Insurance Coverage
Under the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, patients are responsible for 30% of treatment costs.
What’s Covered:
- Basic dental checkups
- Tooth decay treatments
- Gum disease care
- Dentures
- Regular cleanings (if medically necessary)
Estimated Costs with NHI (Patient’s 30% Share):
| Procedure | Cost Range (¥) |
|---|---|
| Initial Examination | ¥3,000 |
| Minor Decay Treatment | ¥1,500 - ¥3,000 |
| Moderate Decay Treatment | ¥2,000 - ¥10,000 |
| Severe Decay Treatment | ¥7,000 - ¥20,000 |
| Basic Gum Disease Treatment | from ¥3,000 |
| Wisdom Tooth Extraction (Straight) | ¥1,500 - ¥3,000 |
What’s Not Covered:
- Cosmetic procedures
- Teeth whitening
- Cleaning without medical necessity
- Most orthodontic treatments
Knowing these costs can help you budget and prepare for your appointments.
Booking and Treatment Process
Most dental clinics in Japan schedule 20–30 minute sessions, though some offer longer appointments of up to 45–60 minutes. Arrive early to complete any paperwork. Make sure to bring your insurance card, confirm if English documentation is available, and check if the clinic offers language support.
"Dental care in Japan has been kind, professional, thorough, and accessible."
- KamaT, Long-term foreign resident of Japan
Japanese Dental Practices
Japanese dental clinics often have open-plan layouts with several dental chairs in one room. This setup is common and part of the local approach to dental care.
Treatment Style:
- Many treatments involve multiple visits, and minimal anesthetic is typically used.
- Root canals usually require at least two appointments.
Patient Comfort:
- Clinics often provide lap blankets for warmth.
- Small boxes are available for storing personal items.
- Towels are placed over your eyes during treatment for added comfort.
Finding English-Speaking Dentists
Looking for an English-speaking dentist in Tokyo? Here’s how you can locate clinics with verified English support using online tools, expat communities, and clinic websites.
Online Search Tools
A great starting point is Myjin's dental directory, which features English-speaking dentists in Tokyo. Each listing provides:
- Links to official clinic websites
- Detailed location and access information
- A breakdown of available treatments
- Confirmation of English-speaking staff
- Details about accepted insurance plans
When using online directories, prioritize listings with verification badges. These badges indicate that the clinic has been assessed for English language support.
Expat Community Resources
Expat communities can be a treasure trove of recommendations. By joining expat forums, social media groups, or local networks, you can get personal referrals and up-to-date feedback on dental clinics offering English services.
Dental Clinic Websites
Many dental clinics in Tokyo have bilingual websites, which can make your search much easier. Look for these key features:
- An English language toggle or dedicated English pages
- Staff profiles that highlight English proficiency or international experience
- Information about international insurance acceptance
- Online booking forms and patient materials in English
- Clear pricing details and emergency contact information
Updated English content on a clinic's website often signals their readiness to accommodate international patients. Before booking, take a moment to explore these features to ensure the clinic meets your needs.
sbb-itb-cbc0cbb
Tokyo's English-Speaking Dental Clinics
Here are two trusted dental clinics in Tokyo that provide full English-language support. Confirming English assistance beforehand is key, and these clinics are known for meeting that requirement.
MY Dental Office Kojimachi
Located in Chiyoda-ku, MY Dental Office Kojimachi provides general dental care in both English and Japanese. It's just a 1-minute walk from Kojimachi Station (Yurakucho Line, Exits 5 or 6). Key features include:
- U.S.-trained staff, led by Dr. Yukiko Minami
- Advanced 3D imaging (CT) technology
- Expertise in dental implants and orthodontics
- 24-hour online booking system
- Emphasis on preventative care
Address: 〒102-0084 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Nibancho, 3-11 Vort二番町 3F
For another option, take a look at Tokyo Clinic Dental Office.
Tokyo Clinic Dental Office
Run by U.S.-trained Dr. Anthony S. Drennan, this clinic offers a range of services, including general dentistry, pediatric care, implants, orthodontics, TMJ treatment, sleep apnea solutions, and laser procedures.
Location: 32 Shiba Koen Building, 3F, 3-4-30 Shiba Koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0011
Note: This clinic does not accept Japanese National or Social Health Insurance, so check payment details before booking.
Tip: When making an appointment, specify your language preference to ensure English support.
Preparing for Your Dental Visit
Once you've chosen a clinic, make sure you're ready for your appointment by checking language support, payment methods, and the necessary documents to bring along.
Language Support Check
Ensure the dentist and staff can communicate in English and that appointment-related documents are available in English. For more complex procedures, confirm if additional language assistance is provided.
For instance, MY Dental Office Kojimachi offers complete English support, with staff available to assist and clear visual aids used during consultations.
Payment Options
| Treatment Type | Cost with Insurance | Cost without Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Check-up/Cleaning | ¥3,500 | ¥11,667* |
| Follow-up Visits | ¥1,750 | ¥5,833* |
| Braces/Invisalign | Not covered | From ¥1,000,000 |
| Teeth Whitening | Not covered | ¥5,000 – ¥60,000 |
*Based on a typical 70% insurance coverage rate
Most clinics accept cash and often allow credit card payments. If you have Japanese National Health Insurance, confirm whether the clinic accepts it, as some operate on a private-pay system only.
Required Documents
Bring these key items to your appointment:
- Health Insurance Card (hokensho) if you're covered by Japanese insurance
- Personal ID like a passport or residence card
- A list of current medications and allergies
- Your Japanese address and phone number
Arriving early is a good idea, as you'll likely need to fill out some forms. English-speaking clinics usually provide these forms in English, covering your personal details, dental health history, current concerns, past treatments, medical conditions, medications, and pregnancy status (if applicable).
Conclusion
Finding an English-speaking dentist in Tokyo can be simple if you follow a few key steps:
- Confirm that the dentist and staff can communicate in English.
- Verify that your insurance is accepted.
- Prepare essential documents like your insurance card, ID, and medical history.
Platforms like Myjin make the process easier by listing dental clinics in Tokyo that cater to international patients. You can filter by location and find contact details, while premium listings highlight clinics offering extra support for foreigners.
Dental practices in Tokyo might differ from what you're used to, but many are well-prepared to assist English-speaking patients. By following these tips and using resources like Myjin, you can find reliable dental care that fits your needs.
