Dental and Optical Care in Thailand: What Expats Need to Know

Moving to Thailand means enjoying a vibrant lifestyle and a renowned healthcare system with high-quality services at affordable prices. However, for expatriates, navigating dental and optical care can be challenging. Where should you go for treatment? How much does it cost? What are the best options for children? And most importantly, how can you avoid unexpected expenses?

As a trusted health insurance broker for expats in Asia and an official CFE representative, Alea provides all the essential information you need.

1. Dental Care in Thailand: How Does It Work?

Thailand is a top destination for medical tourism, and dental care is no exception. The country offers modern clinics, well-equipped facilities, and high-quality care at prices lower than in Europe.

Where to Get Dental Treatment in Thailand?

• Public hospitals: Low-cost but often overcrowded, with long waiting times and potential language barriers.
• Local private dental clinics: A good balance between quality and affordability, but standards can vary.
• International dental clinics: Found in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, these offer premium services, often with English- or French-speaking staff and dentists trained abroad.

How Much Do Dental Treatments Cost in Thailand?

Dental care is cheaper than in Western countries, but prices vary depending on the clinic and city.

• General consultation: 500 – 1,500 THB (approx. 14 - 41 Euros)
• Teeth cleaning: 800 – 2,000 THB (approx. 22 - 55 Euros)
• Filling: 1,000 – 3,500 THB (approx. 27 - 95 Euros)
• Dental crown: 8,000 – 20,000 THB (approx. 218 - 545 Euros)
• Dental implant: 40,000 – 80,000 THB (approx. 1,090 à 2,181 Euros)

💡 Important: The CFE does not cover dental care, so international health insurance is recommended to prevent high expenses.

Dental Care for Children

Thailand has well-established pediatric dental services, with specialized children's dental clinics in major cities.

Key facts:

• Pediatric dental clinics are available in major cities.
• Braces and orthodontic treatments are common but expensive (up to 200,000 THB or 5,453 Euros).
• A dental check-up before relocating is advised to avoid unexpected treatments abroad.

2. Optical Care in Thailand: What to Expect?

Whether you need glasses, contact lenses, or laser vision correction, Thailand offers a wide range of professionals and state-of-the-art equipment.

Where to See an Eye Specialist?

• Local opticians: Affordable and accessible, but lens quality may vary.
• Specialized clinics and hospitals: Recommended for in-depth eye exams and precise prescriptions.
• International ophthalmology centers: Offer high-quality treatments with cutting-edge technology and English-speaking staff.

How Much Do Optical Treatments Cost in Thailand?

• Ophthalmologist consultation: 800 – 3,000 THB (approx. 22 - 82 Euros)
• Prescription glasses: 1,000 – 10,000 THB (approx. 27 - 273 Euros)
• Contact lenses (per year): 800 – 3,000 THB (approx. 22 - 82 Euros)
• Laser eye surgery (LASIK): 40,000 – 100,000 THB (approx. 1,090 - 2,727 Euros)

💡 Tip: Some optical chains offer promotions on glasses, but it’s essential to check the quality of lenses and coatings before purchasing.

Optical Care for Children

With increasing screen time, many children are developing vision problems at an early age. Thailand offers various treatments to manage and prevent worsening myopia.

Key facts:

• Early vision screening and regular eye check-ups are recommended.
• Vision therapy is commonly used to slow myopia progression.
• Children’s glasses cost between 2,000 and 8,000 THB (54 – 218 Euros), depending on the lens quality.

3. Why Is Health Insurance Essential for Expats in Thailand?

Dental and optical care—especially in international clinics—can be costly. A single specialist consultation can cost hundreds of euros.

With international health insurance, you get:

• Reimbursement for dental and optical treatments
• Access to the best clinics without financial concerns
• Coverage for the whole family, including orthodontics and contact lenses

As a leading broker for expatriates and official CFE representative, Alea assists the French expat community in finding the best health insurance solutions.

With Thailand's complex healthcare system and the high cost of private care, we compare top-tier health insurers—including APRIL, Henner, and MSH—to secure the best coverage at the best price for you and your family!