Dental Caries in Geneva: Complete Guide and Prices
Tooth decay is the most common oral disease in the world. In Switzerland, around 90% of the adult population has had at least one cavity during their life. In Geneva, the situation is no different. Despite an excellent level of care, caries remains a frequent reason for consultation in dental practices in the canton.
At Studio Smile, a premium dental practice located in Chêne-Bougeries, we treat patients with cavities at different stages every day. This comprehensive guide explains everything: causes, symptoms, available treatments, prices in Geneva and reimbursement options.
What is tooth decay?
A cavity is a progressive destruction of tooth enamel. It is caused by acids produced by bacteria present in dental plaque. These bacteria feed on the sugars in your food. The acid they produce attacks the enamel. Without treatment, decay progresses towards the dentin, then towards the pulp of the tooth.
The process is irreversible once the enamel is pierced. The earlier decay is detected, the simpler and more affordable the treatment.
Symptoms of decay
The early stages of a cavity are often silent. This is why regular check-ups with the dentist are essential. Here are the symptoms that should alert you:
- A white or brown spot on the surface of a tooth
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet
- Spontaneous pain or pain when chewing
- A visible hole in the tooth
- Persistent bad breath
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. In Geneva, dental practices have advanced diagnostic equipment, including digital radiography and intraoral cameras.
Causes and risk factors
Caries results from a combination of several factors. Cariogenic bacteria, mainly Streptococcus mutans, are the main factor. But other elements come into play.
Food high in sugars. Fermentable carbohydrates feed bacteria. Sodas, candies, fruit juices are enemies of tooth enamel. In Geneva, the consumption of Swiss chocolate does not help matters.
Insufficient oral hygiene. Irregular or ineffective brushing allows plaque to build up. The use of dental floss and interdental brushes is essential.
Dry mouth. Some medications reduce saliva production. Saliva plays a protective role by neutralizing acids and remineralizing enamel.
Genetic predisposition. Enamel quality varies from person to person. Some patients have thinner or more porous enamel, which makes them more vulnerable.
Age. Children and the elderly are at greater risk. Children because of their sometimes insufficient hygiene. Elderly people due to gum recession which exposes the roots.
Caries treatments in Geneva
Treatment depends on the stage of decay. The earlier the treatment is received, the more conservative the treatment.
Remineralization. At the initial stage (white spot), the application of professional fluoride may be sufficient. Enamel remineralizes naturally if conditions are favorable. No drilling required.
Obturation (filling). When the decay has pierced the enamel, the dentist removes the decayed tissue and fills the cavity. At Studio Smile, we exclusively use the latest generation aesthetic composites. The result is invisible. Mercury amalgams are no longer used in our office.
Inlay / Onlay. For medium to large cavities, a custom-made ceramic restoration offers greater durability. The inlay is placed inside the tooth. The onlay covers one or more cusps.
Crown. When the tooth is too damaged for a simple filling, a dental crown covers it completely. It protects the remaining structure and restores masticatory function.
Root treatment (endodontics). If the decay reaches the pulp, endodontic treatment is necessary. The dentist removes the infected nerve, disinfects the canals and seals them. The tooth is then crowned.
Extraction. As a last resort, if the tooth cannot be saved, extraction is considered. A dental implant or bridge can then replace the missing tooth.
Price of caries treatment in Geneva
Prices vary depending on the stage of decay and the type of restoration. Here are the price ranges in Geneva in 2026:
| Treatment | Indicative price (CHF) |
|---|---|
| Consultation + diagnosis | 80 – 150 |
| Composite filling (small) | 150 – 300 |
| Composite filling (large) | 300 – 500 |
| Ceramic inlay / Onlay | 800 – 1,500 |
| Ceramic crown | 1,200 – 2,000 |
| Root Treatment | 800 – 1,500 |
At Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries, we offer a detailed quote before any treatment. Our prices are transparent. We also offer payment in installments free of charge, up to 24 monthly payments.
Reimbursement and insurance
In Switzerland, basic health insurance (LAMal) does not cover routine dental care for adults. Caries are not reimbursed, except in cases of serious illness of the masticatory system or accident.
Supplementary dental insurance can cover part of the costs. The level of reimbursement depends on the contract taken out. It is advisable to check the conditions of your supplementary insurance before initiating treatment.
For children, the School Dental Service of the canton of Geneva offers check-ups and certain treatments. Low-income families can benefit from subsidies.
Prevention: how to avoid cavities
Prevention is the best treatment. It involves simple and regular gestures.
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Use fluoridated toothpaste. Floss or use interdental brushes daily. Limit snacking and sugary drinks. Visit your dentist in Geneva at least twice a year. Have a professional scaling at the dental hygienist every six months.
At Studio Smile, we focus on prevention. Our dental hygienists support you with personalized protocols to reduce your caries risk.
FAQ
How much does it cost to treat a cavity in Geneva? The price varies from 150 to 500 CHF for a classic composite filling. For a ceramic inlay, count between 800 and 1,500 CHF. At Studio Smile, a precise estimate is established before any treatment.
Is decay reimbursed by insurance in Switzerland? No. LAMal does not cover routine dental care. Only supplementary dental insurance can reimburse part of the costs. Check the terms of your contract.
How do I know if I have a cavity? The early stages are often painless. A stain on the tooth, sensitivity to cold or sweetness, or pain when chewing are signs. Only a dental examination with x-ray allows a reliable diagnosis.
Can cavities heal on their own? No. Once the enamel is pierced, the process is irreversible. Only dental treatment can stop the progression. At the very early stage (white spot), remineralization with fluoride is possible.
How often should you consult to detect cavities? Two visits per year to the dentist are recommended. In Geneva, Studio Smile offers complete checks with digital radiography and intraoral camera for precise screening.
Do you suspect a cavity? Don’t delay. Make an appointment at Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries. Quick consultation, precise diagnosis, comfortable treatment. Call us or book online through OneDoc.