Greece – Dentists and Dental Treatment

How does the dental care system work in Greece — is it public, private, or mixed?

Greek healthcare operates across three overlapping channels: a National Health System, compulsory social insurance, and a private sector. In the specific area of dentistry, the divide is particularly pronounced: services are overwhelmingly delivered privately, public dental provision is inadequate and underfunded, and patients bear most of the cost themselves through direct payments.

While the public system draws on the state budget and insurance funds, the private sector depends almost entirely on out-of-pocket spending and voluntary insurance. This stands in sharp contrast to countries like the UK, where NHS dental care — however stretched — gives all residents access to subsidised treatment through a register of NHS dentists. No comparable publicly accessible list of contracted dental providers exists in Greece for routine appointments.

EOPYY does not have contracts with private dentists. Any consultation at a private dental clinic will be an out-of-pocket expense. Publicly provided dental treatment is therefore only available through the dental units of public hospitals or state health centres (PEDY), and not every facility offers this service.

Alongside the public ambulatory care network, there is a large and diverse private sector consisting of individual practices, group dental clinics, and diagnostic centres. Private facilities are most heavily concentrated in Athens and Thessaloniki. They operate on a fee-for-service model, with patients paying directly or through private insurance. This means that for most expats — especially those living outside major cities — private dental clinics will be the primary, and often the only, realistic option.

Private healthcare facilities in Greece are broadly regarded as superior to public alternatives, typically offering newer equipment and significantly shorter waiting times. The Hellenic Dental Association (HDA) is the state-recognised body responsible for regulating dental practice in Greece. It can be used to verify whether a given clinic operates within the appropriate regulatory framework. The official EOPYY (National Organisation for the Provision of Health Services) website is a helpful resource for understanding what public entitlements are available.

How do expats find and register with a dentist in Greece?

Greece does not operate a formal patient registration system for dental care, unlike countries such as the Netherlands or Ireland where you must formally join a practice’s patient list. Private dental clinics in Greece work on a self-referral basis — you contact a clinic of your choosing, book an appointment, attend, and settle your bill at the time. There is no requirement to go through a GP for a dental referral.

In rural and semi-urban areas, outpatient healthcare is largely delivered through a network of PEDY health centres staffed with GPs and various specialists, including dentists in some locations. If you want to explore publicly provided dental treatment, your starting point is to contact the nearest PEDY health centre or public hospital to find out whether a dental unit exists there and whether appointments are currently being offered.

For private dental care, the most effective approaches include seeking recommendations from local expat communities — Facebook groups and online forums for expats in Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, and other well-populated areas frequently include practitioner recommendations from personal experience — checking with your country’s embassy or consulate, as many maintain informal directories of local practitioners who regularly treat international patients, or searching through the EOPYY eFindDoctor tool, which lists contracted practitioners by specialty and location.

The EOPYY website offers an “Available doctors’ appointments” feature for booking with contracted private doctors. However, since EOPYY does not contract private dentists, this tool is of limited value for dental care specifically, and is better suited to finding medical specialists. For locating a private dentist, personal recommendations and expat networks remain by far the most reliable method.

To access any form of public healthcare entitlement, you must first obtain a Greek social security number — the AMKA. This is issued at KEP service centres within your municipality. Expats can register themselves, their dependants, and their children. Without an AMKA, you will be treated as a private-paying patient at any facility, including public ones.

Is dental treatment covered by public healthcare or social security in Greece?

Expats who are employed or self-employed in Greece are obliged to make EFKA social security contributions, which entitle them and their families to public healthcare, as well as family, life, and other forms of state insurance. Dental care is technically within the scope of these entitlements — but in practice, the breadth of public dental coverage is considerably narrower than many newcomers might anticipate based on what they received in their home country.

What does public insurance actually provide? EFKA covers free preventive dental care and basic dental treatment, orthodontic care for minors up to the age of 13, and denture replacement every five years, along with associated interim services. Any treatment that falls outside these categories is likely to require private payment or supplementary private insurance.

Publicly covered dental treatment is only accessible at dental units within public hospitals (ESY) or at health centres where such units exist. Simply present your EHIC at the point of care. This is a crucial detail: if you have recently moved from another EU country and hold a current European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can use it for emergency dental treatment at public ESY facilities. However, the EHIC does not cover private dental consultations under any circumstances.

To be eligible for illness benefits in kind through the public system, you are required to have made insurance contributions corresponding to a minimum of 50 days of employment in the year preceding the medical need. Expats who have only recently arrived in Greece and have not yet built up this contribution history will not yet be entitled to public coverage, and should factor private dental costs into their budget during this initial period.

Routine check-ups, fillings, root canal treatments, crowns, implants, and cosmetic dental procedures all fall outside the standard public coverage package. Greece participates in the EU’s social security coordination framework, which means contribution periods earned in other EU or EEA member states can be aggregated to satisfy Greek eligibility thresholds. This is worth exploring with e-EFKA if you are relocating from elsewhere in Europe and have an existing contributions record.

What does dental treatment typically cost in Greece, and how is it paid for?

One of the most frequently highlighted advantages of seeking private dental treatment in Greece is the comparatively low cost. Dental treatment in Greece is typically 60–75% cheaper than equivalent procedures in the US and UK. Greece’s lower cost of living has enabled private dental clinics to keep their fees accessible. The figures below provide a general picture of private dental pricing as of 2024–25, but you should always confirm current fees directly with the clinic before proceeding, since costs vary considerably between providers, locations, and the complexity of the work involved.

• Consultation / examination: Often free or up to approximately €50 at many private clinics (as of 2024–25); check with individual providers
• Scale and polish (professional hygiene clean): Generally €60–€100
• Composite (white) filling: Around €100 at private clinics in Greece, compared with €200–€250 in the US and UK (as of 2024)
• Dental crown: Around €350 in Greece, versus up to €2,000 in the US and UK (as of 2024)
• Single tooth implant (implant body): The cost of the implant itself can range from €699 to €910 in Greece (as of 2024–25), with additional costs for the abutment and crown on top
• Root canal treatment: Typically €150–€350 depending on the tooth and the clinic; check with individual providers
• Orthodontic braces: Costs vary widely by treatment type; consult individual clinics for current pricing

Fees are influenced by the clinic’s geographic location and the experience level of the treating dentist. Practices in central Athens and on the busier tourist islands tend to be priced higher than those in smaller provincial towns or rural areas. Before agreeing to any procedure, always ask for a written, itemised treatment plan with a clear cost estimate.

Payment at private dental clinics in Greece is almost universally required upfront, at the time of treatment or upon its completion. Unlike reimbursement-based insurance systems, private facilities here operate on a direct fee-for-service basis, with patients paying the clinic personally or via private insurance. Most clinics accept credit cards, and some will offer payment plans for expensive treatments — it is worth raising this with reception if the cost of a procedure is substantial.

Does private health insurance cover dental treatment in Greece, and is it worth getting?

Given how limited the public dental system is, taking out private insurance with a dental component is a sensible consideration for anyone planning to stay in Greece for an extended period. Many Greek nationals and long-term residents choose supplementary private insurance specifically to gain broader access, avoid lengthy waits, and cover services the public system does not provide. Comprehensive paid plans can include direct specialist access, second opinions, emergency evacuation, wide-ranging inpatient and outpatient cover, vision, dental care, medication, extended rehabilitation, and more.

Dental coverage within Greek private insurance plans is typically delivered through a network of contracted dental providers. A coordination centre operates around the clock, 365 days a year, offering telephone-based medical guidance and information about coverage entitlements. Policyholders must contact this coordination centre before receiving dental treatment in order to activate their coverage and confirm they are using an approved provider. This pre-authorisation requirement is a standard feature of most Greek private dental insurance arrangements.

Expats are generally advised to consider supplementary private insurance. Both Greek and international insurers offer ready-made or tailored plans designed specifically for expatriates. International health insurance policies from providers such as Cigna Global, AXA, Allianz, and Bupa Global are typically accepted at private clinics in Greece. Before attending any appointment, confirm directly with your insurer and the clinic whether direct billing applies, or whether you will need to pay first and claim reimbursement.

Common exclusions across most private dental insurance policies include purely cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers, pre-existing dental conditions, and adult orthodontic treatment. In Greece, standard dental insurance plans do not typically cover full-arch implant procedures, as these are generally classified as cosmetic. Some premium-tier policies may offer partial coverage for implants, but this remains unusual and usually comes with significant caveats.

When comparing policies, pay attention to: annual dental benefit caps (many plans limit dental cover to €500–€2,000 per year); waiting periods before dental claims can be submitted (usually three to six months); whether referrals to specialists require prior approval; and whether dental emergencies are covered from the policy start date. Always read the full policy terms rather than relying solely on promotional summaries, and verify current conditions directly with the insurer.

What is the standard and quality of dental care like in Greece?

In the private sector, particularly across Greece’s major urban centres, the standard of dental care is generally strong. Greek dentists deliver high-quality treatment, having completed their training at well-respected universities both in Greece and abroad, including the UK. The country’s two principal dental schools — at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki — produce graduates who must obtain a licence from their regional dental authority before they are permitted to practise.

Licensing is issued by local dental authorities such as the Athens Dental Association, so it is worth establishing where your dentist obtained their qualifications and then contacting the relevant body to verify their standing. The Hellenic Dental Association (HDA), as the government-recognised regulatory organisation for dentistry in Greece, can tell you whether a practice meets the appropriate standards for the treatment you require. Its official website is a useful starting point for credentials checks.

A significant number of Greek dentists received their training either in Greece or the UK. UK dental qualifications can be independently verified via the General Dental Council or the Dentist Register — though it is important to confirm that any listed qualification remains current. Some private dentists, particularly those who trained in the United States, hold membership of the Hellenic American Dental Association, which provides an additional avenue for verifying professional background.

There are notable regional differences in availability and quality. Private dental clinics offering specialist services — including implantology, orthodontics, oral surgery, and cosmetic dentistry — are primarily found in Athens and Thessaloniki, and in popular international destinations such as Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and Mykonos, where demand from overseas visitors has shaped what is on offer. In smaller towns and on more remote islands, the number of available providers is more limited, and accessing specialist care may require travelling to a larger centre.

Are there language or practical barriers expats should be aware of when seeing a dentist in Greece?

Language is among the most commonly raised concerns for expats trying to navigate healthcare in Greece. Greek is the country’s official language, and all formal documentation — treatment plans, consent forms, receipts, and clinical records — will ordinarily be in Greek. That said, the practical situation in dental clinics is often more manageable than people fear, especially in cities and popular expat destinations.

Across Greece’s private sector, particularly in urban areas and regions with significant international visitor numbers, many dental professionals speak fluent English. Dentists who trained abroad or who work in areas with a strong expat presence will frequently communicate comfortably in English, and some are also proficient in French, German, or other European languages. In smaller towns and more rural locations, finding a dentist with strong English language skills is less certain, and it is advisable to ask about this when first making contact with a clinic.

On a practical level, if you cannot read Greek, ask clinic staff to take you through the treatment plan verbally before you sign any consent documentation. Well-established private clinics accustomed to treating international patients will generally accommodate this request without difficulty. For complex or expensive procedures, consider bringing a bilingual companion or a local contact to assist with administrative steps — particularly during an initial registration or when reviewing a detailed treatment proposal.

The general approach to dental care in Greece is broadly comparable to that found across Western Europe: the emphasis is on clinical treatment rather than extensive preventive discussion, and dentists tend to be direct and efficient with patients. Appointment timekeeping can be more relaxed in smaller practices, so allow extra time in your schedule, particularly when visiting clinics outside major cities. Payment is expected at the point of treatment, and clarifying the full expected cost in advance of any work beginning is always sensible.

At public healthcare facilities, the language situation is more challenging: staff at PEDY health centres and public hospital dental units are considerably less likely to speak English fluently. If you need to use public dental services, preparing a brief written summary of your symptoms and dental history in Greek — or arranging for a Greek-speaking person to accompany you — will make the process considerably smoother.

What should expats do in a dental emergency in Greece?

Dental emergencies — including acute toothache, a fractured tooth, a dislodged crown, or a dental abscess — require prompt attention. The appropriate course of action depends on where you are located and what insurance cover you hold.

1. Call a private dental clinic directly. In most urban centres and tourist areas, private dental clinics offer the fastest access to same-day or next-day emergency care. Many practices in Athens, Thessaloniki, and the more popular island destinations will prioritise urgent cases. Payment is made upfront; if you have private insurance, call your insurer’s 24-hour helpline before attending to confirm coverage and obtain any required authorisation.
2. Go to a public hospital emergency department (ESY) or health centre. Dental treatment is provided free of charge at dental units of public hospitals (ESY) or health centres where available — simply present your EHIC. If you are covered by EFKA or hold a valid EHIC, attending a public ESY facility with your documentation entitles you to emergency dental treatment at no personal cost. Note that not all hospitals have a dedicated dental unit, and waiting times at public facilities can be considerable.
3. Use the national emergency line if needed. When emergency transport by ambulance is required, you can dial 166 (National Helpline) or 112 (EU helpline) to be transported to a public hospital on duty. This is most relevant when a dental infection has spread to the point of causing severe systemic symptoms that require hospital-level emergency care rather than a standard dental appointment.
4. Out of hours. Outside normal clinic hours — particularly on islands or in rural areas — options become more limited. The nearest public hospital with an on-call doctor is usually your best alternative. Keep your AMKA number, EHIC (if applicable), and any private insurance documentation accessible at all times.
5. Follow up with your regular dentist. Treatment received in an emergency at a hospital or unfamiliar clinic is typically aimed at stabilising the problem rather than resolving it completely. Once the acute situation has been addressed, arrange a follow-up with a private dentist for a thorough assessment and any further treatment needed to complete the care.

Expats who have neither EFKA coverage nor private insurance will need to cover the full cost of emergency dental treatment at private clinics out of pocket. Fees for emergency consultations and urgent procedures vary between clinics; always ask for a cost estimate before authorising any work, even when the situation feels urgent.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an AMKA number to see a dentist in Greece?

An AMKA — the Greek social security number — is required to access any publicly funded dental treatment in Greece. At private dental clinics, you can attend and pay for treatment without one. That said, registering for an AMKA as soon as possible after moving to Greece is strongly advisable, since it also opens up access to the broader EOPYY/EFKA healthcare system and a range of other public services.

Are there any free dental services available to expats in Greece?

Dental treatment is provided free of charge only at dental units within public hospitals (ESY) or health centres where such units operate. If you are insured under EFKA or carry a valid EHIC, you are entitled to access this provision. However, not every public facility has a dental unit, and free treatment is restricted to medically necessary procedures. Routine check-ups, fillings, implants, and cosmetic treatments are not available free of charge under the public system for adult patients.

Does EOPYY cover private dentist visits?

EOPYY does not hold contracts with private dentists. Any visit to a private dental clinic will be entirely at your own expense. This distinguishes dental care from GP and specialist consultations, where EOPYY does maintain a contracted network of private providers. Public dental coverage is confined to the dental units of ESY hospitals and PEDY health centres.

What dental treatments are covered by social security (EFKA) in Greece?

Public insurance covers preventive dental care and basic treatment, orthodontic treatment for children aged under 13, and periodic renewal of dentures. Standard adult treatments such as fillings, root canals, crowns, and extractions fall outside the standard public package for most insured adults, and must be paid for privately or through supplementary private insurance.

How much does a private dentist visit typically cost in Greece?

As of 2024–25, a private dental consultation in Greece typically falls in the range of €50–€100, with procedure costs varying significantly by type of treatment and provider. A composite filling may cost around €100 and a dental crown around €300–€400, though prices differ between Athens, the islands, and smaller regional cities. Always request a written cost breakdown before committing to treatment and confirm current pricing directly with the clinic.

Can I use international health insurance at a Greek dentist?

Many private dental clinics in Greece, particularly in cities and areas with large expat communities, will work with international health insurance. However, arrangements differ between clinics: some offer direct billing to the insurer, while others require patients to pay upfront and reclaim the cost from their provider. Check with both your insurer and the clinic ahead of your appointment to establish which arrangement applies, and secure any necessary pre-authorisation your policy requires.

Are there English-speaking dentists in Greece?

At many private clinics in Greece — especially in Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, and other areas with significant expat and tourist populations — dental professionals speak fluent English and in some cases additional European languages. In smaller towns and rural areas, this is less consistent. Expat community forums and embassy referral lists are reliable ways to identify practitioners experienced in treating patients who do not speak Greek.

What is the Hellenic Dental Association and how can it help me?

The Hellenic Dental Association (HDA) is the state-recognised body responsible for regulating dental practice throughout Greece. You can approach the HDA or the appropriate regional dental association — such as the Athens Dental Association — to verify a dentist’s qualifications and confirm their registration status. This is particularly valuable before committing to major or costly procedures where reassurance about a practitioner’s credentials is important.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of clinic hours?

For an out-of-hours dental emergency, your first option is to contact a private emergency dental clinic — in Athens and other larger cities, some practices offer extended or round-the-clock services. Alternatively, go directly to the emergency department of the nearest public hospital (ESY), where urgent dental treatment is available free of charge to EHIC and EFKA holders. You can also contact 166 (National Emergency Helpline) or 112 (EU emergency line) for assistance and ambulance transport if the situation is serious.