How to choose a reliable dentist in Hanoi

Last updated 6 November 2026 · By the Dentist in Hanoi editorial team

In short: pick a clinic close to where you live or stay, where you can communicate easily with the dentist (not only the receptionist), that gives a written treatment plan with itemised prices before starting, and that is willing to give you copies of your X-rays and records. For larger treatments, get a second opinion; that is normal in Hanoi too.

1. Start with what you need

2. Check the basics

  • A real, published address and phone number, and consistent details across the clinic website, map listing and social media.
  • A licence. Clinics in Vietnam need an operating licence and dentists a practising certificate. Licences are often displayed in the clinic; you can ask to see them.
  • Who will treat you. Ask for the dentist's name and qualifications, not only the clinic name. Large clinics have many dentists.

3. Communication

An English-language website doesn't always mean the dentist speaks English. Before you book, ask: "Will the dentist speak English with me, or will someone translate?" Both can work, as long as you understand what is being done and why. Our profiles say what a clinic's language claim is based on. See English-speaking dentists in Hanoi.

4. Price transparency

  • Ask for a written treatment plan with each step and its price, before any treatment starts.
  • Ask what is not included: X-rays, 3D scans, temporary crowns, follow-up visits.
  • For crowns and implants, the plan should name the material and brand.
  • Be cautious with heavy discounts that only apply if you decide today.

To get a sense of normal prices, see Dental prices in Hanoi and How to compare dental quotes.

5. Hygiene

Things you can see: instruments opened from sealed sterilisation pouches in front of you, new gloves and masks for each patient, disposable covers, and a clean treatment room. You can ask how instruments are sterilised; a good clinic will answer without hesitation.

6. Records and follow-up

Ask for copies of X-rays, scans and a short summary of the treatment, digitally if possible. This is especially important if you live here temporarily or travel for treatment: your dentist at home will need them.

7. Watch out for

  • A treatment plan that is much larger than you expected, without clear explanation or X-rays to show why.
  • Pressure to start immediately with expensive work when you came for a check-up.
  • Claims of "painless" or "guaranteed" results.

In those cases, take the X-rays and plan and get a second opinion elsewhere.

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal to get a second opinion in Hanoi?

Yes. For larger treatments it is sensible and clinics are used to it. Ask the first clinic for your X-rays so the second clinic doesn't need to repeat them.

Should I choose a big chain or a small clinic?

Both can be good. Chains often have more equipment and longer opening hours; at a small clinic you are more likely to see the same dentist every time. What matters is who treats you, how they communicate and how transparent they are.