Dental treatment abroad

Going abroad for treatment, whether medical or dental has become increasingly popular over the years. Many people choose this option as it is often cheaper and can be combined with a short break as well.

In effect it is like taking a holiday and undergoing dental treatment whilst you are there.

Another reason for doing so is to avoid waiting lists and to relax in the sun as well.

But whilst this is an attractive option there are a few issues to consider before doing so.

Most popular dental treatments abroad

The most popular types of dental treatment whilst abroad are:

• Dental implants
• Cosmetic dentistry, e.g. teeth whitening, veneers etc
• Crowns
• Bridges

There are numerous other procedures carried out in other countries but these are chosen by most people in the UK.

Advantages of dental treatment abroad

These include the cost, an attractive or exotic location, no waiting list and the opportunity to have a short holiday as well. But is it important to remember that this still has to be paid for and things can go wrong.

It can be cheaper and many places offer deals which are tempting but weigh up both the pros and cons before you decide. What may appear to be a good offer can have pitfalls and these can be more difficult to resolve whilst abroad.

Dental treatment abroad is usually performed by highly trained, experienced professionals who are concerned with your needs. They use up to date techniques and equipment and are members of renowned dental organisations.

Disadvantages of dental treatment abroad

There are a few downsides to undergoing treatment in another country. To start with, be wary of what appears to be a great deal or a bargain. Do not be guided by price only but take other factors into account such as what happens if you experience complications or what is/is not included in the bill.

Think about language/cultural differences. If the dentist and his/her staff have limited English or are unable to speak English at all then how are you able to communicate with them. What happens if something goes wrong?

Plus there have been cases where people have undergone dental treatment only to find that something goes wrong which then needs treatment once they are back in the UK. They have to visit their own dentist to deal with this problem which adds to the overall cost of their treatment.

What originally seemed like a good deal has become more expensive than if they opted for treatment in the UK.

What to consider before opting for dental treatment abroad

Here are few issues to consider when deciding whether to have dental treatment in the UK or abroad.

First of all, do your homework. That means finding out as much as you can about the dentist and clinic where you are intending to undergo treatment. Check the qualifications of the dentist and do not be swayed by a glossy brochure of fancy website.

Make sure that the dentist is licensed and reputable. Make sure that you know what your bill includes in terms of treatment and what you have to pay extra for. Ask what it excludes as well as includes.

Think about aftercare. Is this carried out abroad or back in the UK? What happens if something goes wrong? Are you able to contact the dentist and clinic?

Think about language and cultural issues. Choose a clinic where the dentist and staff speak English.

Discuss your intentions with others and your own dentist.