Did your last visit to the dentist leave you feeling like you could only afford a tiara rather than those new crowns?
Maybe a dental vacation is just the solution you’re looking for.
Welcome to the world of Dental Tourism. This is a fast growing industry due to the exorbitantly high prices of dental treatments in the US and Canada. Many people, not only from America, travel abroad to a wide range of countries to get more affordable dental work done while enjoying a holiday. That’s one way to take the pain out of dentistry… add in a beach, great food, wine and a beautiful destination.
Let's dig into this…
Why Is Dental Care Cheaper Abroad?
There are a number of factors that help drive down treatment abroad. Real estate and office rental fees are more affordable for small business owners abroad, and staff salaries are lower due to the lower cost of living. Additionally, insurance requirements tend to be more flexible or, in many cases, optional. Whereas in the US, dentists are required by law to pay for insurance and liability costs, which can inflate clinics’ overheads.
Quality of Dental Care Abroad: Is it Safe?
Dental tourism is a safe option for many people. The safety of your trip depends on the country you are traveling to, the clinic you visit and the care you receive. It is important to conduct thorough research before selecting a clinic and country for your dental needs. Check the current safety and political situation of the country you are considering, and research experienced dentists who speak English and who specialize in your needs. Mexico has been a popular destination for dental tourism for some time but it comes with its share of challenges. Some clinics can be good, but many are 15 years or more behind with the latest technology and there’s also the issue of safety.
When you try to “go it alone” or simply go for the cheapest advertised package, one can get into trouble. Beware of clinics that offer a flat price (including travel) along with specific dental procedures. While this may sound attractive, once you get there the prices may go up significantly and you are at their mercy. If a deal sounds too good, it probably is.
Is Dental Tourism Right for You?
Dental tourism is a viable option for those seeking to improve their smile with procedures such as veneers, or more extensive treatments like implants and root canals. By choosing to travel abroad for these treatments, patients can save significant amounts of money and also enjoy a vacation in a beautiful destination.
Savings are around 50 - 60% less than what you would spend on most treatments in the US. For example, an “All on 4” dental implant treatments in Portugal are priced around $12,000 whereas in the US they can start at $25,000. While many people may be able to get their treatments done in one visit, more serious treatments such as implants will require two visits. And yet even with travel one can still experience good savings, depending on the location.
Portugal is a good option for medical for dental tourism. In fact, it has some of the best dental and healthcare in the world. It has been ranked number 12 by the World Health Organization; by comparison, the US ranks 37th and is the 7th safest country according to the 2023 Global Peace Index. Europe in general has very strict guidelines and regulatory and training standards for dental care ensuring that patients receive the highest level of treatment.
While conducting extensive research, we found most dental tourism offerings were advertisements by the clinics themselves which makes it a challenge to know if they are reputable. One can find a few large global facilitators, however most simply provide the contact info for a clinic then leaving you to your own devices. It is important to do research before making a decision to see if a trip abroad is the best option. A relatively newcomer to the market, Dental Destinations Portugal, offers a concierge service approach, providing clients with access to preeminent dental clinics and a comprehensive range of services to make the dental vacation experience easier and stress-free.
Will US dental insurance cover treatment abroad?
For some people, yes. If your provider pays or reimburses you for out-of-network care or treatment abroad.Generally, dental policies cover some portion of the cost of preventative care, crowns, root canals, oral surgery and extractions. They might also cover periodontics and prosthodontics, such as dentures and bridges If you do not have dental insurance preventive there are companies who will provide loans for dental care allowing you to spread out your payments.
Uncle Sam may even give you a break.
Dental care may be deductible as long as it is not solely cosmetic. Part of your travel may be as well, so it is important to consult with a tax accountant for specific advice on this matter.
Dental tourism can be a great solution for those seeking affordable dental care without compromising on quality. With lower costs and advanced technology, many countries offer a safe and viable option for dental work. Don't let fear or high prices keep you from taking care of your dental health.