Dental implants are the most stable and longest-lasting option for replacing missing or badly decayed teeth, but this also makes them more expensive than alternatives such as a dental bridge or dentures.
If you're looking into ways to lower the cost of implant treatments, having the procedure done overseas by cheaper dentists could be appealing, but this could be a decision you regret.
Here are four good reasons why you should have your implant treatment here in Australia, and why cheap overseas dental implants can carry a high cost.
1. Lower professional standards
Destinations promoted for dental tourism are developing countries that likely have less stringent standards compared to Australia, where dentists and implant materials are strictly regulated.
Your overseas dentist may not be sufficiently qualified and experienced to provide such a complex treatment as dental implants, or they may use lower quality materials and equipment that are more likely to result in complications.
If you choose an Australian dentist, you'll have the peace of mind of knowing that they are registered with the Dental Board of Australia, which holds practitioners to high professional standards, and that the implant materials have been approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
2. Higher risk of infection
Infection control and hygiene standards are also likely to be lower in overseas dental clinics compared to Australia, which has some of the strictest infection control protocols in the world.
Inadequate infection control could risk exposure to viruses and unfamiliar bacteria that you may not have immunity against. Dental tourism and other overseas medical treatments are thought to be responsible for the growth of antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs' in Australia in recent years.
3. No aftercare or support
Placing dental implants is a surgical procedure that carries a risk of complications. These risks may be increased when the treatment is provided by an overseas dentist, especially when the treatment plan is compressed into a shorter time frame than recommended so it fits into a holiday.
Dentists abroad may not offer follow-up care if something goes wrong. Even if they do, the cost of extending your visit or making a return trip if you have a dental emergency will cancel out some of the savings you hoped to make. You may even need to see your local Australian dentist after all to have problematic implants corrected or replaced.
4. Hidden costs
As well as the possible cost of emergency care if something goes wrong, overseas dental implants may not be as cheap as advertised if the clinic adds extra fees to your bill that you weren't informed about.
Having dental implants in Australia may cost more, but you can rest assured that your dentist will be transparent about prices, once they have examined your mouth and developed your treatment plan.
You may also be able to claim part of your treatment (such as dental crowns) on your health insurance, depending on your level of cover. Your local dental clinic may also offer interest-free payment plans or other support to help you manage your dental implant cost.
Dental implants in Bracken Ridge
If you want to know more about dental implant costs and what's involved in the procedure, book a consultation with our experienced dentists at Bracken Ridge Dental. Book online or call us today on (07) 3261 2405.
By: Bracken Ridge Dental