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Published: June 16th 2015
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My crazy bachelorette party almost 10 years ago resulted in two broken teeth and a quick fix just in time to say “I do.” The front tooth’s covering material (porcelain I think) is starting to wear down and discolor, and really it should have been addressed years ago. I just couldn’t swing the cost. I’ve been looking into the financial and surgical realities of
crown work*, and the numbers are staggering. While researching, I stumbled onto a trend in getting dental work done while on vacation. Thought I’d pass it along in case anyone else is freaking out of dental costs but is already ramping up for a get-a-way.
With the difference in dental costs between the U.S. and other countries, it’s no wonder many people are opting to make appointments during their international vacations. There are many factors that go into the cost adjustment, but the primary one is simply labor.
For example, in Costa Rica dental implants are half the U.S price. They import all their equipment and have identical standards and procedures as their northern neighbor, but the added bonus of a resort-like resting place and a much lower labor rate.
So how can you take advantage of getting your oral health back on track during a trip abroad? It may be easier than you think. Here are some tips to help you chose a dentist for the task, ways to make communication run smoothly, and itinerary details you may not have thought about.
The Real Cost It’s not always realistic for people to travel for dental work, as the price of getting there outweighs the savings as compared to your at-home dentist. If you’re already planning a visit to an area with cheaper oral care or if you have major dental work that will cost you your first born child in the U.S. then this option is a great one for your bottom line.
Plan Further Ahead Than Normal Anyone who’s traveling out of their home country tends to plan months in advance. But if you intend to have oral work done, it’s a good idea to give yourself at least a year. In that span of time, you can search out the right dentist and staff, send any necessary documentation or teeth x-rays, as well as discuss and save money for payment.
When researching dentists, be bold in asking about their credentials and sanitary practices. Many oversea dentists get their licenses and certifications from U.S., Australian, or U.K. accredited dental colleges or associations.
Surprisingly, most dental insurance plans want you to spend as little as possible about as much as you do. With this in mind, check with your provider and see how out-of-country claims work. If the foreign dental office can’t make a direct claim to your insurance company, it’s more likely than not that your insurance company can reimburse you upon your return. In addition to any insurance paperwork, you may also need to procure dental records, a passport (if you don’t already have one),
Prepare for Recovery and Emergencies Even back in the states, things can go awry. It’s very smart to plan for the worst and hope for the best. Scheduling your procedure toward the beginning of your trip will give you a cushion of time should something go wrong or a return visit is needed. With this in mind, plan mellow activities such as pool lounging or a seated tour in the days following any in-depth oral procedures. The less stress the better for optimum healing.
Bring a Friend Traveling alone can be enjoyable, but if you’re going to have oral changes happening via surgery or intense procedures it’s wise to bring someone else with you. They can lend a hand should you have a rough recovery, as well as provide companionship. Bonus: all the fun pictures! I think I'd have to bring my cousin Donna. She's amazing!
Don’t The above tips are meant to help make any dental work done while away from home as easy and smooth as possible. To make it that way there are a few things you shouldn’t do. Don’t just hop on a plane or boat and intend to seek out a dentist when you get there without researching first. Don’t assume any teeth problems will magically be resolved with a single visit. Don’t believe everything you read online about a particular area or dentist or procedure. Each case is different, each dentist is unique, and any situation can turn for the worst. Your mouth shouldn’t bear the consequences of your poor planning.
There are bad and good dentists* in every country so don’t let fear stop you from saving money. Do your research, plan well ahead, cover all your bases and you may be surprised with how enjoyable a “tooth-cation” can really be.
Now I just have a really big decision to make: South America, again, or India? Choices, choices.
*Special thanks to
Dr. Marchbanks of Arlington Texas for allowing me to use links to his website and for some good info from a good dentist!
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