Last fact-checked: 25 February 2020

Find affordable dentists in Chiang Mai with Dental Departures and experience high-quality dental care in a tranquil, cultural setting. Compare Chiang Mai dental clinic prices, view photos, read verified reviews and book online to save up to 75% on dental treatments.

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city after Bangkok and a top destination for millions of tourists each year. Those seeking dental treatment here can enjoy expert, affordable care in a city steeped in history, surrounded by traditional countryside landscapes—offering the perfect blend of healthcare and a relaxing holiday experience.

Save a fortune by booking online with us. Whether you're seeking routine dental work or advanced procedures like implants or veneers, Chiang Mai offers modern, internationally accredited clinics and English-speaking dentists. Enjoy world-class dental care and a relaxing holiday—all in one trip.

Located in northern Thailand among the highest mountains in the Kingdom, Chiang Mai is located along the Ping River, around 435 miles (700 km) north of Bangkok. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is only 10 minutes from the city center.

Said to be the cultural center of Thailand, Chiang Mai is laid-back and creative. Filled with temples and craftspeople, Chiang Mai is the perfect complement to the unscathed villages and towns nestled in the surrounding mountains.

In the 13th century, Chiang Mai emerged as an important trading post between China and Burma. This forged Chiang Mai’s uniquely diverse ethnic character as traders, then skilled craftspeople settled in the area, along with the hill tribes and Muslims fleeing persecution from China. This mix is reflected in northern Thai cuisine, which has lent itself to Chiang Mai’s famed cookery courses.

With its stunning mountain scenery and cooler climate, Chiang Mai retains an atmosphere of calmness and tranquillity. Its three hundred temples are among the most revered in the Buddhist world, blending harmoniously with 21st-century facilities, ensuring Chiang Mai’s popularity for travellers of all types. 

Coupled with its renowned hospitality, its credentials as both a vacation and a medical and dental tourism destination guarantee Chiang Mai's enduring appeal.

Is Chiang Mai Safe?

Yes – Chiang Mai is safe for travellers, along with many of Thailand’s other popular tourist destinations. Just remember to take basic common-sense precautions as you would in any unfamiliar city, particularly around tourist attractions, where pickpockets and scammers prey on unwary visitors.

Many Australians and New Zealanders are struggling to pay for dental care at home, and so combining it with a holiday makes financial sense.

Depending on your treatment and selected clinic, you can expect to save 50-75% on dental costs in Chiang Mai, compared to prices in other countries, such as the US, Australia or the EU. 

Below are a few examples of average prices in Chiang Mai:

Please note: The above prices are calculated using average estimates provided to Dental Departures at the time of writing.                    

With an international airport only minutes away from the city center, Chiang Mai is easily accessible from practically anywhere on the planet. If tropical beaches or bustling cities are not really your thing, the cooler, gentler hills of Chiang Mai are the perfect solution.

Although nestled in the mountains and steeped in history, Chiang Mai is far from being a backwater. Top dental clinics feature state-of-the-art facilities comparable to those in Western countries. Housed in modern buildings and staffed by fully trained, certified professionals, these clinics deliver high-quality dental care at a fraction of the cost.

While prices may be substantially less than at home, there is no compromise on the quality of care you receive. As in Bangkok and elsewhere in Thailand, Thai dentists are overseen by the Thai Dental Council and the Thai Ministry of Public Health, ensuring a high standard in dental care.

Thai people in general are friendly, hospitable and very much customer-oriented. All specialities of oral health care are available here, including cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening and dental veneers, allowing a beautiful smile to be within everyone’s reach. Furthermore, with Dental Departures, our best price guarantee ensures you will get the lowest price for your treatment. 

Do Chiang Mai Dentists Speak English?

Yes, our most-visited dentists speak English fluently. In fact, Chiang Mai’s status as one of the leading tourist destinations means English is widely spoken throughout the region. Hotels and restaurants staff in and around Chiang Mai depend on international tourism for their success, and tend to speak at least basic English.

(Image by Dan Costin)

Where to Stay?

Chiang Mai is blessed with many affordable accommodation options, with four-star hotels from as little as $35AUD per night, and guest houses from around $10AUD per night. Chiang Mai is actually the name of the province as well as the city, so be sure to pick accommodation in the city if that is where you want to be.

For exploring the temples, the Old Town district is the place to stay, which also puts you close to the Sunday Walking Street Market. The Night Bazaar area and downtown are close to numerous bars and restaurants, and the Riverside area, which also offers a number of lodging options. 

Away from the more touristy areas of the Old Town and downtown are plenty of other charming places to stay, as well as quiet retreats in the countryside surrounding Chiang Mai.

When Is the Best Time to Visit a Chiang Mai Dentist?

Chiang Mai is slightly cooler than many of the popular beach destinations in Thailand and is suitable to visit all year round for dental treatment.

Chiang Mai has three distinct seasons: the cool season, from November to February; the hot season, from March to June; and the rainy season, from July to October.

During the cool season, maximum temperatures are around 25°C (77°F) and may even get a bit chilly in the evening. In the hot season, afternoon temperatures can linger around 35°C (95°F) and a more manageable 25°C (77°F) at night. 

The rainy season is hot and humid, with showers in the afternoon and plenty of sunshine. January and December are peak season and generally the best months weather-wise. For the budget-conscious, the rainy season is a good time to visit: bargain airfares and accommodations can be had, and many Chiang Mai dentists offer off-season discounts on their already affordable work!

What Payment Methods Are Accepted by Most Dental Offices?

• Cash (in Thai baht)

• Mastercard

• Visa

Many dental clinics accept credit/debit card payments; check with your clinic as to which they prefer. A small credit card handling fee of 3-4% may be assessed.

Getting To and Around Chiang Mai

The nearest airport is Chiang Mai International (CMX), only ten minutes from the city center. The airport serves both international and domestic flights.

Once in town, you will discover ample options for ground transportation:

• Taxis: Are still something of a novelty on the street, although you'll see them at the airport and major hotels in town.

• Tuk-tuk or Samlor: The familiar green three-wheeled motorized Tuk-tuks are a quick and easy way of getting around town. Samlor (three-wheeled bicycles) are slow and quiet-perfect for sightseeing.

• Song Taew: For the more adventurous in-town traveller, these colourful, covered pick-up trucks have two long benches in the back. The most common are the red ones; they don’t follow a specific route, simply roaming the main streets around busy areas such as the temples or markets. Prices usually have to be negotiated. F

ixed route songtaew are found around Warorot Market and charge a flat rate – blue travel to the south, green to the northeast, yellow to the north and white to the east. There are also songtaew at Pratu Chiang Mai market travelling to Hang Dong and San Patong.

• Self-drive: Motorbike and car hire are great ways to get around the area, with most of the major car rental companies represented. The roads are generally in good condition, with both Thai and English road signs. 

• On foot or bicycle: The walled city is only a square mile and easy to navigate on foot. Alternately, a bike is a safe and quick way to get around inside the old city, as traffic is usually light. Numerous bicycle shops around town offer rentals at low daily rates.

Distance from Chiang Mai to areas of interest:

• Chang Mai International Airport (CMX): 6 miles, 15 minutes

• Bo Sang: 5 miles, 15 minutes

• Bangkok: 420 miles, 9 hours

• Ayuthaya: 380 miles, 7.5 hours

• Pattaya: 500 miles, 10 hours

Is Chiang Mai Wheelchair Friendly?

The airport and some hotels are wheelchair accessible; elsewhere, getting around in a wheelchair can be a challenge. Sidewalks are steep and don’t have ramps. Most of the temples have countless steps and other ground obstacles. Ask us about dentists, hotels and transportation options that can help you navigate and enjoy your trip.

What is the Downside? What Should I Know about Visiting?

Pollution and haze are sometimes a problem throughout Southeast Asia, due to seasonal burning of crops and fields from February until April. Surrounded by mountains, Chiang Mai may be at times more susceptible to the haze.

We cannot stress enough the importance of finding an appropriate dentist for your needs. Wherever you go in the world, you will find the good and the not-so-good, and Chiang Mai is no exception. 

Our website is built to help you make a confident, informed choice. With detailed clinic photos, dentist profiles, verified patient reviews and the assurance that every clinic has been thoroughly checked by Dental Departures, you’ll have all the necessary information you need to choose the right dentist in Chiang Mai.

(Image by Whyyan) 

The quality of dental care in Chiang Mai is comparable to the standards back home, as long as you make sure you choose your dentist carefully and have your treatment performed in a reputable clinic. 

At Dental Departures, our clinics have all been quality-checked to ensure high standards and that dentists meet our requirements. We verify clinic accreditations and dentist qualifications, as well as a number of other criteria, such as criminal background, complaints and warranties offered.

Dentists in Thailand undergo years of training, as they do at home. A number of professional organizations, such as the Dental Association of Thailand and the Thai Dental Council, are the regulating bodies that oversee the registration of dentists and govern the profession.

Thailand is one of the world leaders in medical and dental tourism, and the healthy competition this engenders ensures standards remain high. Ongoing training and the use of the most up-to-date technology are prevalent among our most popular clinics, resulting in excellent treatment outcomes.

What Happens if Something Goes Wrong? Do Dentists in Chiang Mai Guarantee Their Work?

All our clinics offer a warranty for the procedures carried out, along with any lab work. Sometimes, even with the greatest care taken, we understand things may go wrong. Although complications are uncommon, any appointment booked through Dental Departures will be remedied as soon as possible. Acting as your advocate, we will work to resolve any problem you may experience.

Patients visit Chiang Mai dental clinics for a wide range of treatments, including:

• Dental implants

• Veneers and cosmetic smile makeovers

• All-on-4

• Root canals and crowns

• Teeth whitening

>>Learn more about dental implants in Thailand

While Chiang Mai is most noted for its wondrous temples and spectacular mountain scenery, there's no shortage of other activities.

Shopaholics will not be disappointed. As the town modernizes and becomes more affluent, shopping malls and luxury outlets abound; the numerous boutique stores for clothes, luxury items and handicrafts are particularly good for browsing. In some districts, you can still see craftspeople at work, for example, Bo Sang Village and its exquisite paper umbrellas.  A relaxing afternoon or evening can be well spent on a riverboat cruise on the Mae Ping River.

Before undergoing major dental treatments, take advantage of Chiang Mai’s outdoor adventures—perfect for thrill-seekers. Options include white water rafting, full moon rafting for the fearless, canyoning, kayaking, hill tribe trekking, mountain biking and jungle canopy zip-line tours.

For something a little more sedated, you can check out some elephant parks and rescue sanctuaries where you can ride an elephant or help feed one. The trend in "experience" tourism has given rise to countless Thai cookery schools, yoga workshops, massage clinics and orchid farms. 

Additionally, Chiang Mai now boasts a number of championship golf courses.

(Image by: Gunther Hagleitner)

1. Why choose dentists in Chiang Mai for dental treatment?
Chiang Mai offers high-quality dental care at affordable prices, with modern clinics and internationally trained, English-speaking dentists.

2. How much can I save on dental work in Chiang Mai?
You can save between 50%–75% on treatments like implants, all-on-4 and veneers compared to prices in Australia, the US or Europe.

3. Is dental care in Chiang Mai safe?
Yes, Chiang Mai dental clinics are regulated by the Thai Dental Council and the Ministry of Public Health, ensuring high standards of care.

4. What dental treatments are available in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai clinics offer a full range of services, including routine cleanings, whitening, implants, veneers, crowns, root canals, and cosmetic dentistry.

5. Do Chiang Mai dentists speak English?
Yes, most dentists who treat international patients in Chiang Mai speak fluent English and are experienced in handling international dental tourists.

Find a dentist in Chiang Mai with Dental Departures and book online at no charge, any time of the day or night. If you prefer to talk with us, get in touch using our free phone number, our online chat or send us an e-mail–we're always happy to address any questions or concerns. 

Whatever your dental condition, we will help you find the best dentist that matches your needs. Check out our website for more information, and discover our exclusive discounts to bring you even greater savings.

(image by Kovalchek)

Sources:

Chiang Mai.https://www.hotels.com/go/thailand/chiang-mai. Chiangmai Bangkok. Website accessed: 30 June 2025.

“The Australians Left with Rotting Teeth and Unable to Smile in Queensland.” ABC News, 17 Sept. 2023, www.abc.net.au/news/2023-09-17/qld-dental-health-private-insurance-public-wait-list/102758592.

“10 Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai.” Go Guides, Hotels.com, n.d., th.hotels.com/go/thailand/best-things-to-do-chiang-mai. Website accessed: 28 June 2025.

Catellya, Cita. “A Guide to Getting Dental Implants in Thailand.” Thaiger, The Thaiger, 8 Nov. 2021, updated 25 Dec. 2023, thethaiger.com/guides/best-of/health/a-guide-to-getting-dental-implants-in-thailand.

 Why Go Abroad for Medical Care? https://patientsbeyondborders.com/why-go-abroad-medical-care. Patients Beyond Borders. Website accessed: 30 June 2025.

Visit Chiang Mai, BMA Media, accessed 29 June 2025, www.visitchiangmai.co/.