This Fox News article that covers many things for seniors to consider when taking a dental vacation.
Dental Tourism or Dental Vacations can Save Senior Serious Money
We all know it’s important to take care of our teeth, but we’re also familiar with the costs involved.
For Senior Americans willing to hop on a plane, visiting a dentist in another country could save them over 70 percent on dental procedures such as dental implants, crowns and root canals.
Some 130 million Americans live without dental insurance, according a 2012 report to Congress called Dental Crisis in America from Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). Because even the insured face out-of-pocket costs, it might make financial sense to fly to your next dental appointment for your larger treatments.
You Won’t Be Alone
It is estimated that in 2012, 400,000 Americans crossed international borders for dental care. For 2013, a projected growth rate of approximately 20 percent is expected by medical industry analysts.
The most-searched-for destinations for Americans seeking dental care are Mexico, the Philippines, Costa Rica, and India. Dental implants, crowns, and dentures are the most popular searches.
While procedures abroad may be cheaper, there are a number of things you'll want to consider before traveling internationally for dental care.
It’s understandable to be a little worried about visiting a dentist in another country. Before I quit my job on Wall Street and started traveling, I was a little worried myself.
My last visit to a dentist outside of the U.S. was in the lakeside town of Ohrid, Macedonia (FYROM). I knew that I needed a crown, and I had heard that people often find inexpensive dental care in Eastern Europe, so when I saw a brochure, I did some research. Though the office was not registered with common dental tourism search engines, it did have some online presence.
Next, I gave Dr. Gabriela Kalanoska a call. On the phone we discussed the procedure I needed and the price, and I made sure I was comfortable having her work on my teeth. After examining my teeth and discussing my treatment options, she replaced a crown that had cost me thousands of dollars in the U.S. The cost: about $380, including x-rays. I was so happy with the results that I had her replace another crown later that week.
Finding the Right Dentist
To find the best dentist for you, begin your search online. For most destinations, a quick Google search will bring up a number of dentistry sites and dental tourism search engines. You cannot go wrong when you go direct to Dentist Associations in Asia and Mexico.
Know the Procedures
Before flying, have a basic idea of what is involved in dental procedures, such as crowns, implants, and root canals. Once you arrive at the office, discuss all of the procedures and options with your dentist one last time and clarify the total cost.
You need to go and get the exam, get the x-rays, get the treatment plan. I would want to know very clearly what each step of the treatment plan is. Are you prepared to stay for a length of time required to get the best care possible
Never undergo dental procedures because you feel pressured to do so. I have never felt pressured by dentists outside of the U.S., but should you, know that you can leave and find another dentist.
What to Expect From Your Visit
If you are already worried about traveling overseas without the added stress of dental care, international dental travel will not be for you. However, if you do decide to travel for dental procedures, you may find yourself pleasantly reassured by the familiarity of the dentist’s office.
But experts say, don’t forget about the recovery time, especially if you want to hit the beach afterward. I have undergone dental procedures and then later in the day went paragliding in Colombia, took in rock concerts in Cabo, and soaked up the sun on a lakeside beach in Macedonia.
Cabo is a popular dental vacation destination
Your recovery experiences may vary. It is important when planning your trip to know how you normally recover from dental work and have relaxing options for post-care activities.
Follow up and Recourse
If visiting a dentist during your vacation, be sure to schedule your appointment as early in your trip as possible. Your procedures may require out-of-office processing or follow-up, or you may elect to undergo additional work once you’ve completed your original procedure.
Other Costs
Remember to budget for hotels, visas, food, and airfare, as you would for any international trip.
If price is your biggest consideration, research dental professionals separately from accommodations, as dental tourism vacation packages that include hotels or attractions will likely be more expensive.
Remember that, even if your primary objective is dental care, you’re on vacation, so plan to go out and have some fun.
Brandon Green is a former investment banker who now travels the world full time.
DLA - Mexico is the world's largest dental travel destination and India and the Philippines are major dental tourism destinations where English is the official language. American English is the national language of the Philippines.
Contact the Certified Doctors & Dentists Internationale' Association for recommendations for dentists accredited for advanced dentistry in Mexico, Manila, Bangkok and New Delhi.
Contact:
Board Certified Dentists in Mexico & worldwide Certified Doctors & Dentists Internationale'
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