With the constantly rising costs of healthcare, many are opting to travel abroad to save money on dental treatments that cost more at home. Today, there’s an entire industry growing around connecting patients with care in other countries. As dental professionals, we know it’s not cheap to receive dental care in Canada and we are consistently facing the high costs of providing top quality care.
Why does dental care in Canada cost so much?
While Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system that covers many medical expenses, dental care is often not included in the same way. This can result in higher out-of-pocket costs for dental services, as patients have to pay for them directly. So why are we paying more than patients in places like Mexico, Thailand, Hungary, India, Turkey, Costa Rica, or the Philippines?
The answer is an economic one. When compared to these countries, Canada has higher labor costs, higher cost of education and training, higher operating costs including compliance with more strict healthcare regulations. Canada also has stringent regulations and quality standards for healthcare services, including dental care. These standards can lead to increased costs for maintaining compliant facilities and providing top-notch care.
Why dental care at home is best: the benefits of choosing dental treatments in Saskatoon
It’s important to note that while dental care in countries like Canada may be more expensive, it often comes with the benefit of higher quality care, advanced technology, and a strong regulatory framework. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of dental tourism should be carefully considered, taking into account travel expenses, potential language barriers, and follow-up care requirements.
Questions to consider before getting dental treatments or surgeries abroad
We compiled this list of important questions to consider before taking a trip to a foreign country for any kind of dental treatment:
What are the qualifications and reputation of the clinic?
- What are the qualifications, certifications, and licenses of the dentist(s) who will be providing the treatment?
- Are the dental professionals trained in procedures similar to the one you need?
- Is the dental clinic accredited by reputable organizations or authorities in the host country?
- What is the clinic’s reputation? Are there patient reviews and testimonials available online?
- Can the clinic provide references from previous international patients who have received similar treatments?
- What are the clinic’s infection control and sterilization practices? Are they consistent with international standards?
- What kind of dental technology and equipment does the clinic use?
- Are the facilities modern and well-maintained?
What is the detailed treatment plan and cost breakdown?
- Can you communicate effectively with the dental professionals? Is there a language barrier, and if so, how will it be addressed?
- Can the clinic provide a detailed treatment plan, including the procedures, timeline, and costs?
- What is the clinic’s protocol in case of emergencies during your treatment?
- Do they have a plan in place to handle unexpected complications?
- Are there any hidden fees or additional costs that might arise during the treatment process?
How will follow-up and aftercare be addressed?
- What kind of follow-up care will be provided after the treatment is completed?
- How will any complications or concerns be addressed if they arise after you’ve returned home?
What are the logistics and costs of traveling to a foreign country for dental treatment?
- Are you fit for travel and the dental procedure itself? Consider any health conditions you have that might affect your ability to undergo treatment and travel.
- What are the travel requirements for visiting the host country (visa, vaccinations, etc.)?
- How far is the clinic from the airport or your accommodation?
- Will the clinic assist with travel logistics?
- Do the costs of travel outweigh the savings from cheap dental care?
What are the local regulations and limitations of my dental and travel insurance?
- How does the host country regulate dental treatments and healthcare services?
- Are there any legal or regulatory concerns you should be aware of?
- Will your health insurance cover any potential complications or follow-up care resulting from the treatment abroad?
- What is the clinic’s liability policy in case of treatment failures or adverse events?
What do second and third opinions say?
- Have you considered seeking a second opinion from a dentist in your home country before making a decision?
Saskatoon dentists provide the safest, most personalized and stress-free dental care locally
Consult with your dentist or healthcare professional, who can provide valuable insights and guidance. Schedule your dental checkup and cleaning with BLOK Dental Studio here.
