Americans Abroad: Dental Tourism Destinations And Numbers

The high cost of dental care in the US has led to the rise of dental tourism, with Americans travelling abroad to save money on their dental treatments. In 2020, an estimated 290,000 Americans went abroad for dental procedures, with Mexico being a popular choice due to its proximity to the US and low costs. Other popular destinations include Costa Rica, Thailand, India, Turkey, and Hungary. While dental tourism can offer significant cost savings, it is important for individuals to carefully research the quality and safety standards of the dental clinics they are considering abroad.

Why do Americans travel abroad for dental work?

The primary reason Americans travel abroad for dental work is the high cost of treatment in the US and the lack of insurance coverage. Dental tourism offers Americans the opportunity to save up to 70-80% on dental treatments, with countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, and Thailand being popular destinations. The cost savings are especially significant for extensive restorative and cosmetic dental work.

Another factor that makes dental tourism appealing is the ability to combine dental care with a vacation. The recovery time for even complex dental procedures is relatively short, allowing patients to spend the rest of their trip enjoying their chosen destination.

In addition, dental tourism provides access to quality dental care. Reputable dental clinics in popular destinations use globally-renowned brands and maintain high safety standards, often exceeding international standards. These clinics also have experienced and certified dentists who may have received international training.

Furthermore, dental tourism companies have emerged to assist Americans in planning their trips, providing services such as connecting patients with international healthcare providers, arranging travel and accommodation, and offering dental tourism packages.

Factors contributing to lower costs abroad:

• Lower cost of living, including lower salaries for dental staff.
• Absence or lower cost of malpractice insurance for dentists.
• Lower student debt for dentists due to government subsidies and free education.
• Lower cost of setting up and running a dental office.

How much can Americans save by travelling abroad for dental work?

Americans can save up to 80% on dental work by travelling abroad. In Mexico, for example, an implant can cost around $870, compared to $4,000 to $6,000 in the US. Similarly, a crown in Hungary can be as little as $200, a fraction of the cost in the US.

The top 10 destinations for dental tourism among US patients are Mexico, Thailand, Hungary, Spain, Poland, Costa Rica, the Philippines, Malaysia, Turkey and the Czech Republic.

US patients can expect to save 40% to 65% in Mexico, 45% to 65% in Costa Rica, and 50% to 75% in Thailand.

The cost of living in these countries is significantly less than in the US, making it more feasible for dentists to own and operate a practice. In Mexico, for example, dentists are not required to pay for malpractice insurance and carry less student loan debt due to government subsidies.

However, it is important to consider the additional costs of travelling abroad for dental work, such as air travel, accommodation and time away from work.

What are the risks of travelling abroad for dental work?

Risks of Travelling Abroad for Dental Work

While travelling abroad for dental work may be tempting, there are several risks that you should be aware of before making any decisions. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

Lack of Regulation

One of the biggest risks of travelling abroad for dental work is the lack of regulation and standardized procedures. In the United States, dental professionals are licensed and certified by the American Dental Association (ADA) and are held to strict requirements by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the State Board of Dentistry. These regulations ensure that dental procedures are safe and up to a certain standard. However, when you travel to another country for dental work, these regulations and protections may not exist or may not be as stringent. This can lead to issues with the quality of care, hygiene standards, sterilization of equipment, and overall safety.

Germs and Bacteria

Travelling for dental care increases your risk of exposure to different germs and bacteria, particularly if you are exposed to water that is not safe to drink. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that medical tourism can increase your risk of coming into contact with bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. Additionally, if you opt for dental work in a country where the local language is not your native language, you may struggle to understand post-operative care instructions, increasing the risk of complications during recovery.

Additional Costs and Safety

While the upfront cost of dental work abroad may seem appealing, there are often additional costs associated with travel, accommodation, and time away from work. Furthermore, if complications arise, you may need to incur additional expenses for remedial treatment, which can be costly. It is also important to consider the safety of the destination and whether there are any travel advisories in place.

Quality of Care and Materials

The quality of dental care and materials used can vary significantly between countries. While some countries have reputable dental clinics that maintain high standards, others may not have the same level of oversight and regulation. It is crucial to research the qualifications and experience of the dentists, the reputation of the clinic, the safety protocols followed, and the quality of materials used before making any decisions.

Continuity of Care

When you receive dental work abroad, it can be challenging to ensure continuity of care once you return home. Your local dentist may not be familiar with the specific procedures or materials used, and you may need to incur additional costs for follow-up care. It is important to have a plan in place for ongoing care and to be aware of any potential complications that may arise.

In conclusion, while travelling abroad for dental work may offer cost savings, it is important to carefully consider and weigh the risks involved. Thorough research, consultation with your local dentist, and informed decision-making are crucial to ensuring a safe and satisfactory outcome.

What are the best countries to travel to for dental work?

The best countries to travel to for dental work depend on your location, budget, and preferences. Here are some of the top destinations for dental tourism:

Mexico

Mexico is a popular choice for Americans seeking dental treatment abroad due to its proximity to the US. Cities like Tijuana, Juarez, Cancun, and Los Cabos offer affordable, high-quality dental care. The cost of dental work in Mexico is about one-third of the price in the US, with savings of up to 70-85%.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is another convenient option for Americans and Canadians. It offers quality dental treatment and the opportunity to visit the country's wildlife reserves and beaches. Dental work in Costa Rica can save you up to 70% compared to US prices.

Turkey

Turkey is a popular dental tourism destination, especially for patients from the UK and other European countries. The Turkish government actively promotes medical tourism, and Turkish dentists are known for their international-grade training. Dental tourists can save up to 70-85% due to favourable exchange rates.

Thailand

Thailand has world-leading dental establishments and is a popular choice for Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians, and Americans. Bangkok is the best place for dental tourism in Thailand, offering affordable prices and a range of tourist attractions.

Poland

Poland is a top European destination for dental care, offering competitive prices for various dental procedures. Warsaw and Krakow are the leading hubs, with potential cost savings of up to 50% compared to private dental prices in the UK and USA.

Hungary

Hungary is a favourite among Europeans seeking high-quality, low-cost dental treatments. Prices are about one-third of what you would pay in the US or other European countries. Budapest, with its vibrant culture and nightlife, is a great place to spend time after your treatment.

India

India offers prices for dental care that are about 70% lower than in the US. Many clinics have international accreditation, and English is widely spoken, making it a convenient choice for native English speakers.

The Philippines

The Philippines is a popular choice for dental tourism due to its affordable prices and exotic location. The country has a large number of international dental clinics, and Filipino dentists are used to providing services to foreigners.

Croatia

Croatia is a rising dental tourism destination, attracting those seeking high-quality, affordable dental treatment in a stunning location. Most leading clinics are in Zagreb and Split, and English is widely spoken.

How can Americans find a reputable dentist abroad?

Americans can find a reputable dentist abroad by following these steps:

Work with a Reputable Dental Tourism Company

Americans can contact a reputable dental tourism company to find a good dentist abroad. These companies maintain a repository of the best dental clinics in various locations and can customize treatments and travel packages for their clients. Working with a company can also reduce the risk of getting duped and provide local support.

Decide on a Location

Americans should decide whether they want to travel solely for dental work or combine it with a vacation. Choosing a location close to home can save on travel time and costs. Popular destinations for dental tourism include Mexico, Costa Rica, Turkey, India, and Thailand.

Shortlist Dental Clinics

Once the destination is decided, Americans should research and shortlist dental clinics. They should pay attention to the qualifications, experience, and specialization of the dentist. It is also important to verify the registration of the dentist and clinic and check for certifications by national and international bodies. Reading patient testimonials and feedback can also provide valuable insights.

Obtain a Virtual Consultation

After shortlisting a few clinics, Americans can reach out for a virtual consultation to discuss their dental needs and share relevant medical records. During the consultation, they can inquire about the dentist's experience, sterilization protocols, quality of materials, success and failure rates, and treatment guarantees.

Make a Final Decision

After gathering information from the virtual consultations, Americans can analyze and compare their options to make an informed decision about which dentist and clinic best suit their needs.

Stay Near the Clinic

It is recommended to book accommodations close to the selected dental clinic, especially for complex dental treatments. Working with a dental tourism agency can be helpful as they can suggest convenient and reputable hotels nearby.

By following these steps, Americans can increase their chances of finding a reputable dentist abroad and have a positive dental tourism experience.

Frequently asked questions