WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING DENTAL CROWN ABROAD

Data from the Adult Oral Health Survey 2021 in the UK reported that 34% of adults had at least one crowned tooth. A crown is a common and effective way to save a tooth, which might otherwise need to be removed. More and more, people are traveling abroad for dental crown treatments. Getting dental crowns in dental tourism destinations provides cost savings and shorter times to access qualified dentists. Read more about what you need to know about dental crowns abroad.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that fits over a tooth to establish its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used to protect weak teeth, hold together cracked tooth parts, or cover dental implants. They are made of different materials, including metals, porcelain, and resin. The look and cost of the crown can change depending on the material chosen.

One survey indicates that 92% of U.S. adults aged 45-64 had at least one dental restoration. If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, crowns help you maintain your oral health.

What is Dental Tourism?

Dental tourism is traveling to other countries for dental treatment. Over 30 million people travel abroad for medical tourism purposes. Dental treatment is one of the popular treatments within medical tourism.

Popular countries for dental tourism are:

• Mexico: With cost savings of up to 70%, the average crown costs about $250.

• Costa Rica: The country is known for its skilled dentists, crowns may cost around $350.

• Thailand: Offers crowns starting at $500, alongside a rich cultural experience.

• Hungary: A European hub for dental tourism, crowns here are priced at approximately $600.

These destinations have high-quality dentists and medical staff and modern dental clinics.

How to Compare Costs – Home Country vs. Abroad?

People prefer to have dental crowns abroad due to their significant cost savings potential. In the U.S., the average cost of a dental crown ranges from $800 to $3,000. On the other hand, you can pay $250 to $600 in Mexico or Costa Rica for the same procedure.

You also need to factor in travel expenses when considering dental treatment abroad. Total expenses of medical tourism include airfare, accommodation, meals, and possibly expenses of your companion. For example, a round-trip flight to Costa Rica from the U.S. can range from $300 to $600, and a week's hotel stay can cost around $300 to $500.

How to Evaluate the Quality of Clinics?

You should conduct your research well before booking your dental crown abroad. Here are the key details to check:

• Certification and Accreditation: Always check if the clinic and the dentist are accredited by recognized dental associations. The certifications indicate a minimum standard of care and safety.

• Reviews and Testimonials: Read patient reviews on independent websites and social media. Patient testimonials are one of the key ways you can get independent feedback and help you understand whether a clinic aligns with your expectations.

• Consultation: Many clinics provide online consultations before booking your treatment. You can ask questions about the procedure, materials, and post-treatment care. Make sure to utilize this opportunity.

Language Barriers

Language differences can be a problem during your dental treatment abroad. To prevent misunderstandings about your treatment due to language differences, you can choose clinics that offer services in your language or employ English-speaking staff. You should be able to communicate with the medical staff to understand your options and aftercare instructions.

Timing and Follow-ups

Before planning your journey, it is key to talk to your dentists beforehand to understand the length of your stay. In some cases, you can have your dental crown in a single appointment or you can also have multiple visits over a few days. If follow-up appointments are required, make sure you can accommodate them. Before traveling, ask your dentist about the estimated timeline and what to expect during your recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

After receiving a dental crown, you may experience some sensitivity. Discussing aftercare instructions with your dentist is important. Ask about potential pain relief medication and eating habits while your mouth heals. Having a local contact you can reach out in case of any concerns can provide peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

Dental tourism can be a good way to save money and have a positive experience as long as you plan carefully. You can feel confident finding a good dental clinic that fits your needs by taking the time to research thoroughly and plan everything out. You just need to be sure you're thinking about all the pieces – not just the procedure cost, but also your travel, where you'll stay, and importantly, how you'll manage any aftercare once you're back home. When you understand the process and prepare well, dental tourism can be a good option.