You open the envelope from the dentist and see a long list of strange numbers: 4.0000, 4.0650, 4.2950…
What on earth do these mean? Is it a secret language? In a way, yes. It's the DENTOTAR® system, and once you have the key, everything becomes clear.
Why Swiss Dental Bills Use Codes
Switzerland uses an official system called DENTOTAR®. Every single action the dentist does has its own code (called Tarifziffer).
This system was designed to make billing transparent across the whole country. Whether you are in Geneva or Chur, "4.0000" always refers to the same basic examination. However, while the codes are standard, the Tax Points (TP) and Point Value (TPW) can vary.
The Most Common Codes Found on Bills
- 4.0000 – Basic check-up / Initial examination
- 4.0650 – Local anesthesia (numbing the area)
- 4.1110 – Dental cleaning by a hygienist (billed per 5 minutes)
- 4.0500 – Single X-ray picture
- 4.5350 – Standard white filling (Composite)
🔍 Audit Your Bill Right Now
Stop guessing what each code on your invoice means. Use the tool below to instantly see the official definition and the allowed tax point range.
How to Spot Mistakes on Your Bill
✅ Verify the Point Value (TPW): Look for a number like 1.00 or 1.15. This is the multiplier. If it’s above 1.20, your clinic is in the "premium" price bracket.
✅ Compare Codes: Use our auditor to see if "4.2010" (Complex extraction) was used when you actually had a "4.2000" (Simple extraction).
📖 Complete Swiss Dental Bill Auditor Series
🔢 Taxpunktwert Explained
How Swiss dentists calculate prices using points and multipliers.
🧾 How to Read Your Dental Bill
Decode every DENTOTAR code on your invoice in minutes.
🦷 First Dental Visit in Switzerland
Why the initial examination often costs 150–300 CHF.
✨ Dental Cleaning Costs
Is 160–300 CHF for professional hygiene necessary?
💡 Second Opinion for Dental Work
How to avoid overtreatment and get a reliable second opinion.
🛡️ Supplementary Dental Insurance
Is it worth it in 2026? Honest ROI analysis.