How to choose a dentist in Nairobi: what to check first

Part of General dentistry

The best dental clinic is the one that suits your needs, not simply the one at the top of a search. Check that the dentist is qualified, that prices are clear, that your cover is accepted, and that you can get there when you need to.

Is this right for someone like me?

Different people need different things. Think about which of these matters most to you:

• Families: does the clinic treat children, and are they patient with nervous ones? Read why a child-focused approach helps.
• Complex treatment: does the clinic have specialists and imaging for implants or orthodontics?
• Busy schedules: are there early, evening or weekend hours near your work or home?
• Insurance or SHA users: is your scheme accepted at the branch you will actually use?

What should you check?

1. Registration. Dentists in Kenya must be registered with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council. You can ask to see this.
2. Experience with your treatment. Ask how often they do it, and who will actually treat you.
3. Hygiene. Ask how instruments are sterilised. A good clinic is happy to explain.
4. Equipment. Ask whether X-rays or scans are available on site, or whether you must go elsewhere.
5. Reviews. Read recent patient reviews for patterns, not just the star rating.

What should you ask about cost?

• Is there a written quote before treatment starts?
• What is included, and which materials are being used?
• What happens if the plan changes?
• Are payment plans available, and is M-Pesa accepted?

Is the cheapest clinic a good idea?

A low price is fine if it is for the same work. A cheaper quote can mean a different material or fewer follow-up visits, or leave out something you will pay for later. Compare what is included, and see Arrow Dental’s published starting prices as a reference.

What are the warning signs?

• No written quote, or pressure to decide on the spot
• Treatment recommended without an examination or X-rays
• Guaranteed results, or claims that sound too good to be true
• Vague answers about who is treating you

How can you try a clinic?

Book a consultation first. At Arrow Dental it starts from KES 1,500 and includes a full examination and a written treatment plan with costs. See our four branches and what patients say.