We all know that dental care can be an expensive undertaking. According to a 2013 survey, about one third of Australians (33%) hold off their dental treatment because of the cost. Most of them look for dental treatments abroad in order to save money. It can be a tempting alternative, but is the cheaper cost actually worth it?
The problem is that dental tourism comes with its own inherent risks. The Australian Dental Association (ADA) encourages patients to do their research first before opting for dental treatment overseas. While you may be saving money initially, subpar dental treatments can cost more money in the long run and it can even cause irreversible damage. Today we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about dental tourism and find out whether or not it’s worth going abroad for cheaper dental treatments.
What is dental tourism?
Dental tourism is the act of seeking dental care treatment outside of one’s local healthcare systems. One of the main reasons people do dental tourism is the affordability of dental care overseas. Most patients travel abroad to get dental implants, bridges, teeth whitening, and many more. Some dental clinics provide accommodations and airfare for international travelers looking to visit their clinic.
Aside from the cost, dental tourism also provides patients with the opportunity to:
- Acquire dental procedures that are only available overseas
- Explore another country while receiving dental care
- More privacy while undergoing dental treatments
What are the dangers of dental tourism?
Dental tourism can be a tempting option if you can’t afford local dental treatment. But it does come with a few drawbacks. These are:
- Dental standards – The quality of dental treatment you’ll receive can vary from country to country.
- Sustained dental care – It can be quite difficult to receive sustained dental care if you go overseas.
- Language barriers – There is a high risk of miscommunication between the patient and the dentist which can lead to inconsistent results.
- Long-term cost – Subpar dental treatments require more trips to the dental clinic, adding more cost in the long run.
The Australian dental industry is strictly regulated and only licensed dentists in the country are allowed to provide dental care to its patients. They are held to a high standard which explains their costly services. You want to entrust your dental health to experienced professionals who can deliver results that exceed your expectations. Dental clinics should have QIP accreditation that certifies their standard of treatment as being safe and high quality.
Dental tourism can increase the risk of complications in dental treatments such as implants and root canals. The procedures are often completed in a short time frame before the patient returns home. This doesn’t provide sufficient time for the mouth to heal and can cause infections if not treated properly. As with any surgical procedure, there will always be risks involved. But these risks can be minimised if your treatment is provided by a licensed dentist.
Having your dental treatment in Australia means you’ll get high quality dental care that is worth your investment. You can have access to a high standard of care in case an emergency appointment is needed.
How to save money on dental treatments
There are a couple of things you can do in order to save money from dental treatments. You can visit local clinics near you and compare their prices to see which ones fit your budget accordingly. Keep in mind that if something goes wrong on your dental trip, the cost of any corrective work done in Australia could end up costing more than if you had your treatment at a local clinic. Before you go overseas for a dental treatment, do thorough research about your chosen dental clinic. Read reviews and see if their services are on par with your expectations.
Many dental clinics offer payment plans in monthly installments. This allows you to spread your bills in a more manageable way without having to pay all at once. Don’t hesitate to ask what health funds the dental clinic accepts and find out if you could be reimbursed for a part if not all of the treatment. Dental treatments are an investment that requires thorough planning and consideration. Don’t be allured by the cheap costs overseas. It’s better to save your money and get a high quality treatment than to settle for a subpar one that will only end up costing you more in the future.
Conclusion
When it comes to your oral health, there should be no compromises. Cheap dental treatments abroad can be an enticing option, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for affordable treatments. If you really want to save on money, make sure that the dental clinic you’re visiting is a reputable one and employs licensed dentists. Be aware of the dangers of dental tourism and make sure to do your due diligence before going overseas for dental treatments. Get in touch today with your leading dentist in Joondalup for additional advice and services.