Dentist

Twice a year you should go to the dentist for a check-up. The dentist will check to see if your teeth are healthy and if problems are visible—cavities for instance—then the dentist will make an appointment with you to treat the problem. He or she will also advise you on keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

If you have pain or other problems between check-ups, then you should phone the same dentist and make an appointment for treatment.

Making an appointment

With most dentists offices you can phone every work day between certain times to make an appointment. Ask your dentist what these times are. In case you are unable to reach anyone to ask this question, just listen carefully to the message on the answering machine.

When you go to the dentist, don’t forget to bring your insurance card!

Dental care costs are dependent on your insurance policy, and additional coverage is usually available. Your policy will state what dental costs are covered. Children are free up to the age of 18 with the exception of special treatment like crowns, etc. unless you have an additional coverage. Consult your policy first.

Emergencies

Just as for your GP, if you have a dental emergency outside of business hours, phone your regular dentist and you will hear on the answering machine where you can best phone for treatment. You can also call the Algemene Spoedgevallendienst (General Emergency Service) on (070) 311 03 05, Monday through Thursday from 16.00 hrs, Friday from 12.00 hrs, and in the weekend. They will tell you which dentist is available to see you.

Children

Children need to visit the dentist after their second birthday. You can take the whole family together in a single appointment. Children up to 19 years can also visit the jeugdtandarts (youth dentist).

Which dentist?

You are free to choose your own dentist. A number of practices in The Hague have English-language websites. In the telephone book, the yellow pages and on the website www.tandarts.nl you can search for a conveniently located dentist who is still accepting new patients. Of course the best way to select a new dentist is through a recommendation.

Like GPs, dentists must also abide by a confidentiality agreement.