How do I choose a dentist in French-speaking Switzerland?

choosing a dentist in French-speaking Switzerland

Do you need dental treatment? How do you choose a dentist in French-speaking Switzerland? From Lausanne to Fribourg, via Aigle, there are many dental practices and clinics to choose from. HELVIDENT answers the questions you most often ask yourself before consulting a dental specialist.

Criteria for choosing your dentist

Dental care is a personalized medical service that directly affects your oral hygiene and health. As you are likely to consult a dentist in Switzerland several times throughout your life, it is important to choose the right one. In fact, the relationship of trust between the treating physician and the patient is an essential criterion. This is all the more true if you have fear of the dentist

At your first appointment, you can easily assess whether the specialist makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Are you made to feel welcome? Are the premises clean? Does the practitioner take the time to take your dental history? Does he or she share explanations and tips for better oral hygiene? If you answer yes to these questions, you've certainly found a good dentist.  

Practical criteria are also important:

  • the proximity of the dental practice to your home or workplace
  • opening hours to suit your schedule
  • accessible parking
  • the provision of adental emergencies
  • transparency of dental treatment prices

Where can I find a dentist in French-speaking Switzerland?

L'Federal Office of Public Health OFSP lists 6,207 dentists in Switzerland who are licensed to practice (figures as of December 31, 2018). So you'll have no trouble finding a dentistry specialist in your canton. 

You can, of course, ask family members, friends, neighbors, colleagues, your GP or pharmacist for recommendations. This also applies if you're moving to another canton or have just arrived in Switzerland. Please note that Swiss Society of Dental Surgeons SSO allows you to search for a dental practice online. 

HELVIDENT dental centers in French-speaking Switzerland

Don't hesitate to visit one of our three HELVIDENT dental clinics in Lausanne, Fribourg and Aigle. Our team of dentists ensures effective, personalized care for each patient, who is seen by the same practitioner at every consultation. We welcome the whole family: children, adolescents, adults and seniors. Dentists, dental hygienists and specialists, you'll find the full range of dentistry services under one roof.

The Fribourg Dental Clinic is located on Avenue de Beauregard. Free private underground parking is available, as are stroller- and wheelchair-accessible facilities. The dental clinic in St Sulpice, near Lausanne, is on Chemin des Mémises. Free parking is available for patients. Easy access by public transport (bus 701 or TSOL). De La Tour Dental Center in Aigle enjoys a privileged location on the Route Industrielle in the canton of Vaud.

How often should I see a dentist?

There's no such thing as ideal frequency, because dental care is personalized. It depends on the oral needs of each patient. In some cases, one or two visits a year are sufficient. In others, less frequent visits may be necessary. 

In any case, we recommend that you consult a dentist on a regular basis. The professional can check the condition of your mouth, teeth, gums and tongue. He or she can detect any pathologies, such as tooth decay or gingivitis. By treating them in time, you can avoid having to seek emergency treatment in the near future. 

You can also benefit from the advice of a dental hygienist in French-speaking Switzerland to improve your daily habits. Even if you have no symptoms, you may have a problem that only a professional can diagnose. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. 

What is the first consultation with a dentist in Switzerland like?

The dentist or dental hygienist who sees you begins by asking about your medical history. This series of questions is known in medicine as the anamnesis. The aim is to gather as much information as possible, so that we can tailor our treatment to the patient.

The next step is a thorough examination of your oral cavity. He uses special instruments to check the condition of your teeth and gums. If required, an oral X-ray can be taken on site, in the office.

Keeping an eye on your oral health is essential to maintaining good overall health. That's why we recommend that you choose a good dentist in French-speaking Switzerland and consult him or her on a regular basis. 

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