Translation guide
The most common way to say 'dentist' in Japanese is 歯医者 (はいしゃ). For more formal contexts, 歯科医 (しかい) is used. The clinic itself is often called 歯医者 or 歯科 (しか).
Referring to a dental professional
The most common, everyday word for a dentist or a dental clinic. Used in casual and neutral contexts.
明日、歯医者に行く。
I'm going to the dentist tomorrow.
歯医者さんに診てもらった。
I had the dentist take a look.
A more formal term for a dentist, often used in official contexts or on signs. Literally 'dental doctor'.
彼は歯科医です。
He is a dentist.
A very formal, legal term for a licensed dentist. Used in official documents or professional titles.
歯科医師免許を取得した。
I obtained a dentist's license.
Referring to the place where a dentist works
Commonly used to mean both the dentist and the clinic. Context makes it clear.
駅の近くに新しい歯医者ができた。
A new dentist's office opened near the station.
Often used in clinic names or signs, e.g., '○○歯科'. More formal than 歯医者 for the place.
あの歯科は評判がいい。
That dental clinic has a good reputation.
A formal term for a dental clinic, often used in official names.
Adding さん (歯医者さん) makes it sound friendlier and more polite, similar to saying 'the dentist' in a warm way. It's very common in spoken Japanese.
歯医者 is the everyday word used in conversation. 歯科医 is more formal and often appears in writing or professional contexts. When in doubt, use 歯医者.
山田歯科医院に通っています。
I go to Yamada Dental Clinic.