4 things you need to know about dentistry in Israel

As an Olah, a Canadian trained dentist with a dental clinic in downtown Jerusalem, I am oftentimes asked questions about dentistry in Israel both by my fellow Olim and even by Israeli born friends.

Here are four of the more frequently asked questions:

1. Is dentistry in Israel as good as in Canada / the US / Australia / the UK?

There is a wide range of dentistry in Israel, with various levels of quality, but there are definitely dentists here, both trained in Israel and abroad, who can offer the most sophisticated and high quality treatment available anywhere. You can find dental care in such urban centers as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv that’s on the same level as that offered in New York, Toronto or London.

 2. How can I find a good dentist? What should I look for in a dentist?

• Recommendations from friends and family, and authenticated online reviews can be useful.
• Make sure the dentist trained in a quality dental school.
• I am always going for continuing educating courses – it is very important for me to keep up with the latest dental technology and innovations. You do not want a dentist who has not learned anything new since finishing dental school two, ten or even twenty years ago! In contrast with Canada or the United States, dentists in Israel are not required submit evidence of any continuing professional development in order to retain their dental license.
• Never let your dentist have his or her assistant explain the treatment plan. I always make time to sit with my patients and explain the treatment options available, include pros and cons, and of course cost. It is very important to me that my patients make informed, educated decisions about their treatment.

3. What is Kupot Holim dentistry in Israel?

All Israeli citizens have health care through one of the Kupot Holim (HMO – health maintenance organizations), however dental care for adults is not included in the health basket. Kupot Holim do operate their own, for profit, dental clinics, and some discounts are given for those holding supplemental insurance. When going to one of these clinics the Kupah assigns you a dentist. The Kupah has policies determining which treatments to do and which materials and laboratories to use.

Some of my patients, especially new Olim, originally tried Kupat Holim clinics and found that the level of care and treatment was not to their satisfaction.  Most Israelis choose their own dentist and do not go to Kupot Holim.

As an independent dentist, I choose the best materials and laboratories suited to my patients and make sure that my standards are consistent with the best practices in the Western world.  I get to know and develop a relationship with my patients, making their dental health my personal commitment.

4. How does the cost of dentistry in Israel compare to dentistry abroad?

Quality dental care is never cheap, but prices in Israel are considerably lower than in the United States, Canada or UK. Dental tourism to Israel, by those looking to combine a vacation to Israel with lower prices and top notch dental care, is on the rise.

Your Jerusalem dentist, Dr. Simone Landau and Associates, offers a comprehensive range of high quality dental services rendered with the latest techniques, in a friendly and modern clinic. Our office is conveniently located in downtown Jerusalem, at 22 Hillel St, Jerusalem.

We promote long term, caring relationships with our patients through empathy, respect, and top notch patient care, along with good patient education. Your dentist SHOULD care!

Dr. Simone Landau holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery(D.D.S.) from the University of Toronto, Canada, as well as a Bachelors of Arts in Biology and an Associate of Arts from Yeshiva University, New York. She is licensed in both Israel and Canada.

Call today to make an appointment: 02-625-6541 or visit http://www.dentistjerusalem.com