Medically Reviewed By: Dr Daniella Heward-Mills (BDS, MSc)
Your Ultimate Guide to Dental Work Abroad
Low-cost dental work abroad can be a lifeline for those unable to afford treatment at home. Wondering how to go about dental tourism? Keep reading for insights.
High-Quality Dental Tourism Saves Money - Is This Real?
Many people skip dental visits due to unaffordable bills.[1]
If you’re one of them, you’ve come to the right place. This article covers dental tourism essentials: locations, procedures, savings, top clinics, and more.
When you're done reading, you'll have all you need to find high-quality, affordable dental care abroad.
Dental Tourism Reviews: Real Patients, Success Stories
Dental Implants Abroad Reviews
Snoyer, USDental Implants, Abroad
You can guarantee you will be in safe hands here & get beautiful work done at affordable rates.
Armando M, USDental Implants, Abroad
We had a complete teeth extraction and implant placement. The price compared to the US was cut in half if not more!
J Wien, UKDental Implants, Abroad
Coming to Turkey to get my teeth done was an experience. They arrange transportation and the service was excellent!.
Paul Drugan, USDental Work, San Jose
I saved over 70% compared to dental costs in Chicago. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the work was top-notch. Great job!
Dental Crowns Abroad Reviews
Andrew, AustraliaRoot Canal Treatment, Abroad
I completed the full root canal with crown treatment in 1 week. Very fast, kind, professional, and also very affordable.
Carmela Giamp, CanadaLumineers, Costa Rica
The dentists and their staff are very professional and extremely kind. I regained my confidence with a beautiful bright smile again.
Louise, IrelandDental Crowns, Abroad
Recently travelled to Croatia from Ireland to have some crowns fitted. Amazing end results with minimal discomfort & pain.
Zach, AustraliaDental Crowns and Teeth Cleaning
I got a crown & cleaning with a few x-rays. Minimal wait times with nice waiting areas. All staff speaks great English.
Cosmetic Dentistry Abroad Reviews
Jon Zayas, UKDental Veneers, Turkey
I got Emax laminate veneers within 4-5 days. The staff is professional. The accommodation with the rides and hotels is free.
Lisa, UKDental Veneers, Turkey
Highly recommend to anyone nervous about going abroad for dental work. Money aside, you are getting the absolute best.
Dental Treatment Abroad Reviews
Jacqui, AustraliaRCT and Dental Crowns, Abroad
Had 6 crowns, root canal carried out over 10 days, they made my appointments around my holiday schedule. Amazing result!
Mihai, CanadaDental Treatment, Abroad
A truly professional team in terms of promptness and quality of services. Painless treatments. I recommend with confidence!.
Dental Tourism Testimonials
Dental Tourism Mexico Reviews
Dental Implants in Mexico
Safe Dental Work in Mexico
Dental Tourism in Costa Rica
Dental Implants and Crowns in Costa Rica
Dental Tourism in Colombia
Dental Work in Medellin, Colombia
Dental Tourism Turkey Reviews
Dental Implants in Turkey
Dental Bridges & Crowns in Turkey
Dental Tourism in Croatia
Dental Work in Croatia
Dental Tourism in Romania
Dental Work in Romania
Thailand Dental Tourism Reviews
Dental Work in Bangkok
Dental Work in Phuket
Dental Tourism in Vietnam
Dental Work in Vietnam
Dental Tourism in India
Dental Work in India
Another popular new destination is Dubai for dental work.
Top Reasons to Choose Dental Surgery Abroad
Why are so many Westerners going abroad for dental work? The answer can be summed up in two words: Cost Savings.
To put it mildly, dental work in the US, Australia & other Western countries can be pricey. Without dental insurance, major procedures are cost-prohibitive for most people.
Therein lies the appeal of dental tourism. You can save significantly by having your procedure done in a foreign country. On top of that, care is promptly delivered with minimal wait times.
Now, let’s focus on the main advantages of dental work abroad.
The Benefits of Dental Tourism
Affordable Costs
The United States has the most expensive healthcare in the world.[2] As a result, more and more uninsured Americans are drawn to medical tourism.
So, how much is dental tourism cost savings?
Price of Dental Work Abroad
The cost of dental work abroad depends on the procedure and the clinic chosen. However, dental tourists can save 70% or more.
For instance, a dental implant with an abutment averages $1,200 - $1,500 in Mexico, Costa Rica, Turkey, and Thailand. In India, it can be as little as $600. On the other hand, the same procedure can exceed $5,000 in the West.
You can also expect to save 75-85% on all on 4 abroad.
Let’s check the table below for a detailed comparison of dental implant costs abroad.
| Country | Dental implant* | All on 4** |
| Australia | $5,500 | $29,500 |
| United States | $5,000 | $24,000 |
| Thailand | $1,500 | $8,000 |
| Mexico | $1,400 | $6,000 |
| Costa Rica | $1,400 | $8,500 |
| Turkey | $1,200 | $4,000 |
| India | $600 | $4,500 |
| *Single dental implant with abutment; **Per arch | ||
Dental work abroad prices are case-dependent.
Savings on Dental Implants Abroad
Excellent Care
Dental tourism is a rapidly expanding global industry. It is projected to be worth $5.83 billion by 2025.[3] With that in mind, many clinics worldwide market their services to dental tourists from Western countries.
Dental Work Abroad - Top-Notch Care
To remain competitive in such a vibrant market, they need to have:
- Cutting-edge facilities and equipment
- Highly-skilled dentists.
Their customer service also has to be exceptional. It keeps patients happy and business flowing. To the same end, many clinics take steps to gain accreditation from national and international organizations. Doing so helps satisfy patients that they are receiving top-notch clinical care.
How Is the Quality of Dental Work Abroad?
The quality of dental care abroad can match or even surpass US standards.
Dentists in Central and South America hold both local and US licenses.[4]
Moreover, dentists abroad have extensive experience treating patients from around the world. Additionally, many dental clinics abroad use cutting-edge technology while offering high-quality care. Therefore, along with affordability, the quality of care plays a vital role in the rise of dental tourism.
Interesting and Exciting Destinations
Popular destinations for dental tourists include:
- Mexico
- Thailand
- Turkey
- Costa Rica
- India
- Vietnam
Mexico and Costa Rica are especially popular among Americans, while Australians opt for Thailand or Vietnam.
Note that all the foregoing countries are also popular tourist destinations in general. That’s part of what makes dental tourism so attractive. Because recovery from a dental procedure is relatively quick and easy, many combine it with a vacation.
After your procedure, enjoy local sights, cuisine, or unwind on the beach, all while flaunting your improved smile. We will take a look at what each major destination has to offer in a later section.
Why Is Dental Tourism Cheap?
You may be wondering why the cost of dentistry is so much cheaper in these countries. To reiterate, it is not because their dentists lack experience or professionalism.
Rather, it is because their general cost of living is lower than that of Western countries.[5] Where the cost of living is cheaper, the salaries are smaller. Hence, dentists abroad can afford to charge much less for the same work.
Popular Procedures for Dental Work Abroad
Dental tourism can involve major work, but it's commonly focused on cosmetic treatments or routine check-ups.[6]
The biggest savings usually come from pricier treatments like complex cosmetic and restorative work. However, you can also enjoy savings on minor procedures, such as:
These treatments won't disrupt your vacation plans.
Many countries offer dental procedures at a lower cost. So, with cheap dental work abroad, you can extend your stay using the saved money.
It’s important to note here that being inexpensive doesn’t mean second-rate. There are countless reputable dental clinics abroad that deliver outstanding care on par with Western standards.
That being said, you should certainly take care when selecting a foreign dentist to work on your teeth. We’ll get into that in detail in the next section.
How to Find a Reputable Dentist Abroad?
Finding cheap dental work abroad is easy. However, selecting the right clinic requires a little more research.
While it may be tempting to go for the least expensive option, you should aim to balance affordability and quality.
We can help you do just that. We will provide you with a shortlist of vetted clinics and dentists, depending on your chosen destination.
Each one has experience treating foreigners and a reputation for superb patient care. Many clinics offer package deals that bundle the costs of your dental work.
For instance, a dental tourism package may include:
- Consultations
- X-rays
- Warranty on restorations
- Ground transport to and from the clinic
If you’d prefer to research foreign dentists on your own, pay special attention to the following factors:
- Qualifications & accreditations
- Patient reviews
- Aftercare protocols
- Proficiency in English
How to Find a Best Dentist Abroad?
If a clinic claims recognition from an international body, visit the latter’s website to verify that the claim is valid. Major accreditation groups like JCI publish lists of accredited facilities.
Before deciding, don't hesitate to request resumes showing the providers' education and experience. It’s your right to know these particulars.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Dental Clinic Abroad
Not all dental clinics are equally worthy of your trust—let alone your money. Here are some definite red flags to be aware of while doing your research.
Unusually Good Deals
The primary benefit of dental tourism is the money it allows patients to save. It makes sense, then, to shop around for the best price.
With that said, be cautious of unusually low prices and promotions claiming to cover all travel expenses. If a company lies about costs, it will likely lie about credentials, facilities, safety protocols, etc.
Lack of Credible Reviews
The best way to learn about providers is to hear what previous patients say about them. But sometimes, it can be hard to tell whether a review is authentic. This is particularly true of feedback that appears on a provider’s website.
To avoid being fooled, look for reviews on websites not associated with the specific clinic. If you can’t find any, cross that clinic off your list.
Lack of Specific Information
A reputable provider will gladly answer all of your queries in detail. It includes questions about:
- Costs
- Professional credentials
- Sterilization techniques, and
- Follow-up care.
Evasive responses and ambiguous information may be indicative of a scam. Clinics that fail to provide satisfactory answers to your inquiries should be avoided.
Top 11 Dental Tourism Destinations for 2023
Mexico is a favorite destination among dental tourists from the US.
The Mexican town of Los Algodones is so prolific in this regard that it has earned the nickname “Molar City.”[7]
Cities such as Tijuana, Cancun, Juarez, and Puerto Vallarta have excellent dental clinics catering to foreign patients.
The resort town of Cancun, known for its stunning beaches, is great for blending dental care with a relaxing holiday.
Promenade in Chihuhua Mexico
Mexico is the top country to get your teeth done abroad. You get the same standard of quality dental treatment as found north of the border.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Sani Dental Group, Los Algodones | Dr. Javier Muñiz Pérez |
| Dental Solutions, Los Algodones | Dr. Xochipilli Bojorquez |
| Algodones Dental Center, Los Algodones | Dr. Enrique Arturo Jimenez Alvarez |
| Cancun Dental Specialists, Cancun | Dr. Irma Gavaldon |
| Sani Dental Clinic, Cancun | Dr. Nestor Oliver Salguero |
| Neo Dental, Cancun | Dr. Miller Vieira |
| Dental Brush, Tijuana | Dr. Emmanuel J. Leon |
| Dr. Implant Dentist Tijuana | Dr. Alejandra C. Aguilera |
| Sani Dental Clinic, Playa del Carmen | Dr. Alejandro Ramirez Rivaz |
| Advanced Cabo Dentistry, San Jose del Cabo | Dr. Luisa Sanchez |
| Dental Mate Cabo, Los Cabos | Dr. Luis Collantes |
| International Dental Center PV, Puerto Vallarta | Dr. Alberto Hernandez |
| Ideal Dental Center, Merida | Dr. Hector García Marín |
| Dental Mate Mexico, Nuevo Laredo | Dr. Carlos Esquivel |
| Nucleo Dental, Ciudad Juarea | Dr. Ernesto Moran |
| Ramlanz, Mexicali | Dr. German Barreto |
| Ideal Dental Center, Mexico City | Dr. Gustavo Cruz |
India is a thriving market for all kinds of medical tourism, including dental.
Its costs are generally comparable to Mexico’s, which means Westerners can save 50% or more.
The top destinations within India are New Delhi, Chandigarh, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.
The dental clinics here have very good track records.
India
India attracts millions of tourists from around the globe with its
- fascinating history and geography,
- striking temples, and
- tranquil seaside towns.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Datta Dental Clinic, Chandigarh | Dr Rahul Datta |
| Max Dental Care, Mohali | Dr. Gaurav Malik |
| Panwar Dental Clinic & Implant Center, Panchkula | Dr. Balbir Singh Panwar |
| Dent Ally, New Delhi | Dr. Shashi Bhushan |
| Dentem, New Delhi | Dr. Tanvir Singh |
| City Dental Hospital, Rajko | Dr. Anand Jasani |
| Trisa Dental Clinic, Mumbai | Dr. Rohan Virani |
| Signature Smiles, Mumbai | Dr. Rahul Oza |
| Dental Solutions, Bangalore | Dr. Balasubramanya K V |
| Dental Lavelle, Bangalore | Dr. Jagadeesh Belur |
| Eledent International Dental Clinic, Hyderabad | Dr. M. Charan Kumar |
| Aspen Dental, Gurgaon | Dr. Abhinav Kathuria |
| Thyme Dental, Gurgaon | Dr. Alka Yadav |
| Ekdantam Clinic, Jaipur | Dr. Kapil Singhal |
| Dr. Pai’s Precision Dental Clinic and Implant Centre, Mangalore | Dr. Umesh Pai |
| 32 Pearls, Ahmedabad | Dr. Jaimin Patel |
| Teeth Care Centre, Ahmedabad | Dr. Nirav Patel |
Costa Rica is a health tourism hotspot and a popular destination for dental tourists. The country is close to Canada and the US, which makes traveling easy.
Dental work is 60 to 80% cheaper in Costa Rica compared to the US or Canada.[8]
Costa Rica is awash with natural beauty.
Dental Touirsm in Costa Rica
Tourists marvel at its pristine beaches, tropical rainforests, active volcanoes, and impressive biodiversity.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Flikier Dental Institute, San Jose | Dr. Simon Flikier |
| New Smile Dental Group, San Jose | Dr. Mario Bonilla |
Being a part of US territory, Puerto Rico is a huge lifesaver for uninsured Americans. Dental procedures cost a third of the US price while offering comparable or superior quality care to major US cities.
Dental Tourism in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's dental clinics offer excellent value for your money with cutting-edge dentistry.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Ciudadela Dental Concierge, San Juan | Dr. Carlos H. Martínez |
Apart from affordable dental care, the island captivates tourists with its serene beaches and scenic mountains.
You can also explore diverse cultures and cuisines, enhancing your Caribbean experience.
Situated in the Balkan Peninsula, Croatia attracts many dental tourists from the UK and other West European countries. The top providers are located in the cities of:
Dental Tourism in Croatia: What to Anticipate!
- Zadar and Split and
- the coastal towns of Trogir and Dubrovnik.
Croatia’s Adriatic coast is lined with golden beaches and upscale resorts.The country also maintains hundreds of national parks and nature reserves.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Dental Centar Repić, Trogir | Dr. Dario Repic |
| Dentum, Zagreb | Dr. Andrej Bozic |
| Dentelli, Split | Dr. Martina Karlo |
Turkey has a burgeoning medical tourism industry. Many of the foreigners treated in Turkey come from Europe, although some Americans and Australians decide to make the trip as well.
Dental Tourism in Antalya, Turkey
The cost of dental work in Turkey is roughly half of what clinics in the US charge. Depending on the procedure, savings can be much more significant.
Turkey’s ancient cities and vivid Mediterranean coastline draw in millions of foreign tourists. From Greco-Roman ruins to Byzantine mosques, there’s plenty to keep you captivated.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Dentspa, Istanbul | Dr. Tuğçe Akın |
| Secil Dental, Antalya | Dr. Seçil Karalar |
| DentaFly, Antalya | Dr. Soner Arıkan |
| DentGlow, Izmir | Dr. Gürkan Metin |
| Dentaglobal, Izmir | Dr. Şükrü Mert Yüce |
Thailand, known for its advanced healthcare system, has long been regarded as Asia’s leading medical tourism destination.[9]
Its location makes it very popular with dental tourists from Australia. Most of the clinics catering to foreigners can be found in the capital city of Bangkok.
Bangkok is the most visited city in the world.[10] Its attractions are numerous and varied.
Thailand
In Bangkok, you’ll find a staggering array of:
- museums, royal palaces
- temples, and authentic cultural performances
It is further celebrated for its shopping and nightlife.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Bangkok International Dental Hospital, Bangkok | Dr. Boworn Klongnoi |
| About Tooth, Bangkok | Dr. Nisara Tanarerkchai |
| Smilebox Dental, Bangkok | Dr. Vishesh Bhatia |
| Phuket Dental Signature, Phuket | Dr. Narumol Pattaraporncharoen |
| ChiangMai International Dental Clinic (CIDC, Chiang Mai) | Dr. Punyada Intapibool |
| Kitcha Dental Clinic, Chiang Mai | Dr. Kitcha Tungthangthum |
Dental vacations to Vietnam are increasingly popular among Australians looking to save money on care.
Clinics in Vietnam provide top-grade dental work at a small fraction of Western prices.
You’ll find the best clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Beyond affordable dentistry, Vietnam offers visitors a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
Colonial architecture, imperial monuments, and Buddhist temples are just a few of the many points of interest.
Vietnam
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| East Rose Dental, Ho Chi Minh City | Dr. Pham Hoai |
| Worldwide Dental, Ho Chi Minh City | Dr. Do Dinh Hung |
| Greenfield Dental, Hanoi | Dr. Ta Thi Hong Nhung |
| Lotus Dental, Da Nang | Dr Tran Le Minh Tha |
[/accordion
Romania is a go-to for dental tourists in Europe, offering:[11]
- Top-notch quality and
- Wallet-friendly rates.
Dental services in Romania cost 50-70% less than those in Western Europe.[12]
Additionally, its living costs, from lodging and transport to food, are among the world's most affordable.[13]
Romania
If you seek budget-friendly treatment and travel, Romania stands out as a top destination for dental work.
Moreover, you won't be disappointed by the country's mix of history and natural beauty.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| The Bucharest British Dental Place, Bucharest | Dr. Cosmin Teasdale |
| iSmile Dental, Timisoara | Dr. Sonia Constantinescu |
| Pro Smile, Constanta | Dr. Nicu Gachi |
| Xtra Dent, Bucharest | Dr. Diana Chirca |
| Sanodent Smile, Cluj-Napoca | Dr. Horea Daniel |
Bulgaria is set in Southeastern Europe. Dental clinics in Sofia, the country’s capital city, provide exceptional care at very affordable rates.
Foreigners can save well over 50% on dental work in Bulgaria.
Bulgaria is admired for its tremendous biodiversity, which is protected and displayed via several parks and reserves.
Its coastal areas and winter resorts also attract tourists.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a blessed with natural beauty.
Bulgaria is rich in diversity and has something for all strata of society. It even houses UNESCO heritage sites which never fails to amaze.[14]
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Sofia Implant Centre, Sofia | Dr. Leonid Nikolaev |
| Bulgaria Dent, Sofia | Dr. Ivan Kostadinov |
| AllDental Clinic, Sofia | Dr. Joanna Toneva |
Colombia has joined Costa Rica and Mexico as a preferred spot for dental tourists from the US.
American patients can save more than 70% on common procedures. Colombia is a focal point of cultural activity, renowned for its
- Literature, art, and
- Architecture
Its geography is remarkably mixed, consisting of rainforests, deserts, and tropical grasslands.
Other attractions include its coffee region and cycling tours.
Colombia
The country offers a wonderful atmosphere for people getting dental work done. They can also enjoy its beautiful destinations, making their visit memorable.
| Dental Clinic | Dentist |
| Oralimagen, Medellin | Dr. Juan Carlos Quiceno |
| International Smiles Medellin,Medellin | Dr. Adriana Castano |
| Centro de Implantes de la Costa, Cartagena | Dr. Julio Oliver Gonzalez |
| Sonrisa Perfecta Dental, Cartagena | Dr. Tarsys Loayza |
| Dentist Cartagena, Cartagena | Dr. Jairo Montoya |
| Dentica, Bogota | Dr. Cristina Suaza |
| Dra. Maria Marin Odontologia, Bogota | Dr. Maria Marin |
| Dr. Diego Parra, Bogota | Dr. Diego Parra |
| Dr. Joan Effer Taylor, Bogota | Dr. Joan Effer Taylor |
| Carlos Acevedo Odontología, Barranquilla | Dr. Carlos Acevedo |
| Dr. Firas Waked, Barranquilla | Dr. Firas Waked |
| Denticenter, Barranquilla | Dr. Hernando Salazar Guerra |
| Estetica Dental Avanzada, Cali | Dr. Juan Fernando Uribe |
FAQs About Dental Tourism Abroad
The best country for dental work depends on where you live. Many Americans make the short trip to Mexico or Costa Rica for affordable dental care.
For Australian patients, Thailand and Vietnam are popular choices. Meanwhile, Europeans tend to favor Turkey, Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
For people who lack dental insurance, going abroad for treatment is financially prudent. For example, Americans can save up to 70% on dental work by going to Mexico or Costa Rica.
The money saved on treatment is usually more than enough to offset travel costs.
Countries providing cheap, high-quality dental work include:
- Mexico
- India
- Costa Rica
- Colombia, and
- Vietnam
Depending on the procedure, Western patients can expect to save 60-70% in these countries. Good, affordable dental care is also available in Thailand, Turkey, Croatia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
It is imperative that you choose a reputable dentist to ensure you receive quality treatment. This requires independent research.
Dental tourism companies can assist you by providing a curated list of vetted dental clinics. These clinics offer exceptional care at affordable rates.
Dental implants are very costly in Western countries, especially the United States. It’s possible to save thousands of dollars by having your dental implants done abroad.
Be sure to choose an established clinic. During your research, pay close attention to patient reviews and official certifications.
Don’t be afraid to ask for specifics regarding safety and sterilization protocols.
Conclusion: Is Dental Tourism a Good Idea?
Dental tourism makes world-class care accessible for uninsured patients. You can get Western-standard care within your budget in countries like Mexico, Thailand, India, Costa Rica, and more.
References
- UIC: The Many Costs of Poor Oral Health
- World Population Review: Health Care Costs by Country 2023
- GlobeNewswire: Adroit Market Research
- Live and Invest Overseas: The World’s 7 Best Countries For Dental Tourism
- KBVResearch: Dental Tourism: Affordable and High-Quality Dental Care
- Business Insider: This tiny Mexican town has more than 350 dentists
- Tourism Review News: Dental Tourism in Flourishing in Costa Rica
- Digit: Medical Tourism in Thailand
- Forbes: Bangkok Is The Most Visited City In The World
- Romania Insider: Romania, an emerging destination for dental tourism
- Expatistan: Cost of living in Romania
- UKessays.com: Tourism in Bulgaria
