SHOULD I GO ABROAD FOR DENTAL TREATMENT?

With the ease of medical tourism these days, going overseas for dental treatment has become extremely popular. Some of the most popular countries for dental treatment include Turkey, Hungary, Thailand, Mexico and Costa Rica. 

But what are the advantages of going abroad for dental treatment?

  1. Cost

The cost is one of the biggest advantages of seeking dental care overseas. Many of these countries have lower staff costs, lower costs associated with setting up clinics, a lower cost of living, and lower student costs. At the same time, these lower costs do not equate lower quality work. In fact, it is just the opposite. If you were to compare the cost of dental implants at your local Sutton clinic, for example, with a comparable Turkish clinic, the difference would be relatively stark, due to the reasons highlighted above. However, the quality of the finished work will be similar. 

2. UK based consultations

Some dentists offer initial consultations in the UK. If this is the case, check that they are registered with the GDC General Dental Council for added reassurance.

3. Flights and accommodation are arranged on your behalf

Often the dental clinics will sell the treatment as part of an overall package, including flights, accommodation and sometimes even excursions while you are away.

4. Scheduled to accommodate you

When undergoing treatment in your home town, you have to schedule it around all your other obligations – work, school, family commitments. Going overseas forces you to take some time out and treat your treatment as part of your holiday.

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5. The work is completed in a concentrated amount of time

When the job is done, it’s done. There’s no more waiting around. The dentists are used to working quakily, skilfully and methodically with people who are there for a few days. 

What are the disadvantages of going abroad for dental treatment?

  1. Concentration of pain

Because the work is being completed in a short amount of time, you are likely to feel a large degree of discomfort during your stay.

2. Not the most relaxing of holidays!

As a result, you might not be feeling well enough to enjoy most of the activities that you would usually enjoy on a holiday. Eating and drinking is going to be difficult. You might take some painkillers which make you feel a bit woozy. 

3. Dental regulations change according to destination

There is no overall regulatory body for dental tourism, and each clinic adheres to its own local regulations. You will need to do your research to ensure that you are satisfied that the dentist you choose is compliant.

4. Language barriers

This is actually less of a problem than you may think. Most professional dental clinics that actively market to overseas customers will have a strong focus on English speaking staff and dentists as they are full aware of the need for good communication as part of their quality care. 

5. After care and follow ups

While the distance might save you thousands on the treatment, you won’t have the same access to the dentist for any follow up care or complications. It is for this reason that not all dental procedures are suitable for overseas. Generally if you are seeking help with dentures, fillings, teeth whitening, root canals, crowns and bridges and dental implants, then a reputable overseas clinic will often do a comparable, or at times better, job than a local dentist. For more complex work you would be advised to stay close to home and use a local clinic to ensure you get the best of care over a long period of time.