Dentistry is quickly becoming the most sought after treatment within the medical tourism industry, and with millions of people from the UK, USA and Canada currently travelling to receive dental treatment at a lower cost, Universities are investing their time and money into researching whether travelling for dental care is really worth your while.

While many Brits travel to European countries such as Poland, Germany, Turkey and Hungary for dental treatment, US citizens tend to travel to South American countries such as Panama, Costa Rica and Mexico.

However, countries in the East such as India and far-out Malaysia are offering even more affordable quality dental solutions and therefore many people are shelling out for air fare to more exotic shores to bag themselves a good deal.

Advantages of Dental Tourism

Unfortunately, the vast majority of employers do not offer dental insurance and therefore the cost of dental treatment in Great Britain is sky high, particularly if you require multiple treatments.

Travelling abroad to receive dental treatments could save you a massive 50-90% and the good news is that the majority of the dental practices abroad provide quality treatment, with up-to-date technologies and techniques.

With dental tourism you can also forget being put on a waiting list, as most dental treatments abroad can be over and done with quicker than it takes Betty to write your time and date details on an appointment card.

Because dental procedures are low-risk medical procedures, recuperation time is fast, allowing patients to leave immediately or within the same day. The freedom and flexibility to return is phenomenal!

Disadvantages of Dental Tourism

The most obvious disadvantage of dental tourism is the hassle and cost of having to travel, yet compared to the price of dental treatments in Britain, Canada and the USA, the cost of air-fare usually pales into insignificance.

Also, some people experience communication difficulties, culture shock and unbearably long flight times, particularly to the far-East.

The UK Dental Implant Industry is strictly regulated so patients naturally put themselves at risk seeking dental treatment in countries where regulation is not as stringent.

Dental implants are a particularly risky procedure abroad as they carry a much longer recuperation period and necessitate regular re-care appointments. Can you afford to travel to and from several times?

Another major disadvantage of dental tourism is the cost impact on the NHS. People who experience complications with treatment following their return to the UK inevitably leave the tax payer to foot the bill.

Things to consider before choosing dental tourism

If you think dental tourism is for you then make sure you do your research- thoroughly. Don’t rely solely on PR and Marketing- it’s easy for companies to create glamorous websites and claim success. Ask around. Find dental tourism patient testimonials.

Also, don’t assume that one person’s dental tourism experience will be the same for you. For comparison purposes, try and find people who have had the exact same procedure you’re looking for.

Good luck and don’t forget your toothbrush!