Considerations for Dental Work Abroad

There are pros and cons of everything and choosing to get dental work abroad is no different. Whether you are going to get dental implants in Bangkok or teeth whitening in Cost Rica, there are some inevitable downsides to traveling abroad for oral treatments.

Why Do People Get Dental Work Abroad?

There are many reasons why people opt for dental work abroad, but the number one reason is to save money. San Diego State University’s public radio station, KPBS, reports that people who traveled to Mexico for teeth implants generally saved around 65% of the cost, whereas people who went for dentals crown typically saved around 75%. However, is cheap dental work the only thing that matters? There are a number of things you should consider before you decide to take the plunge.

Reasons to Reconsider Dental Tourism

·       The laws are different. If you get dental work in the United States and something goes wrong, there are laws intact to protect you, the patient. You can easily fight for your rights and be compensated for your dental mishap. However, if you get dental work in Mexico or elsewhere abroad, the laws are different and often obsolete. It will be nearly impossible for you to get any compensation should your procedure not go as planned.

·       You will be immersed in a different culture. When you travel abroad for dental work, you will be in an entirely different culture. If you rarely travel abroad, this may be daunting and stressful. Luckily, even Americans who rarely or never travel abroad, typically have an easy time traveling for procedures like dental crowns in Algodones because it is so close to the United States. 

·       You may not get to sleep in your own bed. For some people, the most comforting thing in the world is sleeping in their own bed. When you travel abroad for dental work, particularly if it is a bigger procedure, then you may want to spend a few extra days in your dental tourism destination. For some people, sleeping in a hotel room is the last thing they want after a major procedure.

·       You may have to go alone. If all of your friends/family members are busy, then you may have to go to your dental tourism destination alone. This can be a scary thought for those who have a solid support system at home. The best solution to this problem is to plan a dental trip abroad with a friend or family member who also needs treatment. 

These are some of the cons of going abroad for dental treatment. However, there are many positive reasons for doing the same too and many dental tourists return home satisfied with the results and their overall experience.