If you’re a foreigner living in Spain or just visiting and in need of dental care, it’s completely normal to wonder: What should I expect during my first appointment? Is it possible to find clinics with English-speaking staff? That’s why we’ve created this article, to guide you step by step through everything you need to know before your first dental visit in Spain, including what to expect during the appointment, how to prepare, and how much you might pay for common treatments.

Understanding the healthcare system in Spain

Spain has a healthcare system that’s widely recognized for its efficiency, accessibility, and high quality. The public healthcare system, managed by the National Health Service (SNS), offers free or low-cost medical care to citizens and residents through the use of a health card. However, while primary and hospital care are covered, dental services are generally not included in the public system’s basic coverage.

For that reason, many people choose to go to private dental clinics for treatments like cleanings, fillings, orthodontics, implants, or tooth extractions. Although these services come at an additional cost, private dental care in Spain is generally very affordable.

How to choose the right dentist

Choosing the right private dental clinic can be overwhelming—but at City Clinic, we aim to make that decision easier. Our focus on trust, transparency, and personalised care ensures every patient feels confident and well-treated. Whether you need a family dentist, emergency care, or a routine cleaning, we combine clinical excellence with a human touch. Learn more about who we are and what we stand for.

Checking credentials and reviews

Before settling on a dentist, make sure to check their credentials. In Spain, dentists must be registered with the Official College of Dentists and Stomatologists. This ensures they are qualified to practice. You can ask for their registration number and verify it through the website of the regional dental board.

We also recommend looking at patient reviews. Platforms like Google Maps, Doctoralia, or specialized dental clinic websites can give you insight into the overall level of satisfaction, quality of care, and results achieved.

Finding an English-speaking dentist

At City Clinic, our entire medical team speaks English fluently and has extensive experience treating international patients. Clear communication is essential, and we make sure you feel informed and comfortable every step of the way.

While many private clinics in Spain offer bilingual support, we take pride in offering care that’s fully accessible to English-speaking patients—right here in Málaga. Meet our team of English-speaking professionals.

What to expect during your dental appointment

Your dental appointment will usually start with a short interview. The dentist will review your general and dental medical history, ask whether you’re taking any medications, have any chronic conditions, or have undergone previous treatments.

If you’re experiencing pain, sensitivity, or an emergency, such as a broken tooth or severe discomfort, make sure to mention it. Most private clinics are prepared to handle urgent dental issues.

After the initial conversation, the dentist will perform a full oral examination. They’ll check your gums, tongue, palate, oral mucosa, and teeth. This evaluation aims to detect early signs of cavities, infections, gum disease, or dental wear. Based on their findings, the dentist may recommend further tests or begin treatment planning.

Preparing for your dental visit

A successful dental visit often starts with good preparation. Being well-prepared can help ensure your appointment is efficient, stress-free, and productive. Here’s what you can do to get ready:

Gathering necessary medical records

Before your appointment, gather any relevant medical information. This may include your general medical history, known allergies, chronic conditions, and previous dental treatments. It’s also a good idea to bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking.

Brushing and flossing your teeth prior to the visit

It might seem obvious, but many patients arrive with food residue, which makes it harder for the dentist to perform a proper evaluation. Always brush and floss your teeth before going to the clinic. In addition to making the dentist’s job easier, it shows that you take your oral health seriously.

How much does dental treatment cost in Spain?

By now, you’re probably wondering: How much does dental treatment cost in Spain? Prices vary depending on the clinic, the city, and the type of treatment. Here are some general estimates:

• Basic dental cleaning: from 80€
• Dental filling (obturación simple): from 55€
• Simple tooth extraction: from 55€ to 80€
• Root canal treatment (endodoncia):
  • Incisors: from 130€
  • Premolars: from 145€
  • Molars: from 180€
• Dental implants (implante osteointegrado): from 890€ per tooth
• All-on-4 implants: starting at 7,500€ per arch
  • (Includes implant placement; full prosthetic solution may vary)
    

If you’re interested in getting a personalised quote for your dental treatment, the team at City Clinic will be happy to assist you. We offer transparent pricing and will help you understand all your options Request your treatment plan or book an appointment here

Conclusion

In summary, your first dental visit in Spain may seem daunting at first, but it’s really just a matter of being well-informed and organized. With a little preparation and a good understanding of how the system works, you’ll be able to receive quality, personalized dental care at accessible prices, whether you need a one-time procedure or are considering a long-term treatment plan.