General Dentistry
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Dental tourism – is it worth it?
April 2 2021
Dental tourism is the term given when people travel to foreign countries to get lower-cost dental care. This is often combined with a holiday, so kind of killing two birds with one stone. While this trend is growing in popularity, are the risks worth it? Here, we look at the things you should know before making any quick decisions that you could later regret.
Why travel for dental care?
One of the main reasons people travel for dental care is due to the increasing rising costs of visiting the dentist. Due to this, many people across Europe are finding it difficult to afford proper dental care. This is especially true when it comes to more complex procedures where costs can quickly spiral. So, combining a summer holiday with some quick dental work can seem very appealing. However, while it might be more cost-effective, what are the risks? When it comes to your oral health, taking extra precautions and doing your research could help to prevent any nasty surprises.
The risks of dental tourism
There are two main points to consider, firstly there’s the dentist themselves. How long have they been practicing; do they have any reviews from current patients? Can you speak with the dentist prior to arriving? This could enable you to build a rapport with them and feel comfortable they are fully trained and certified. The second main point is knowing the materials being used in your procedures. It’s important to do due diligence and find out as much information as possible about the materials they are using. Then finally, one point to remember is insurance, do they have patient insurance so if the unexpected happened you’re covered? Any reputable clinic will have the necessary legal patient insurance so don’t be afraid to ask to check this.
There are both pros and cons to dental tourism. While cost plays a huge factor, teeth are such an important part not only visually but for your daily life. If you choose to accept the risks and opt for treatment abroad, then just be sure to carry out the right checks beforehand.
If you’re looking for a reputable, award-winning dentist in Norwich with a host of glowing reviews then contact us today.
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