Which Dental Tourism Countries Rank Well for Dental Implants?

You must understand that many Americans simply cannot afford to pay $2-4k per tooth for dental implants. I am one of them. I have done my research, had consultations with dentists in my area, and compared costs. The costs are all comparable, and I can’t afford them. I want to avoid financing dental implants and have a debt to pay off for the next five years. I saw a website that listed Colombia in the top five countries where I can get good dental implants cheaper than in the US. Will you please confirm the best countries for dental implants outside the US? SJ from TN

Dear SJ,

Thank you for contacting Bayou Dental Group regarding getting dental implants in another country. Dental tourism is becoming increasingly popular. We understand that budget is a significant factor in your dental care. Many patients’ budgets are limited in what they can spend on dental implants.

What Are the Best Countries for Dental Implants Outside the US?

Due to negative patient experiences and other factors when receiving dental implants outside of the US, we avoid recommending dentists in other countries. Here are some things to consider if you pursue the treatment elsewhere:

• Research credentials and quality. Do you know the quality of dental services, dental implant components, infection control, or training in the countries you are considering? Although the dental implant technique might resemble the method used in the US, government regulations regarding implant materials and sterilization may be more relaxed. These regulations help prevent infection and dental implant failure. The American Dental Association encourages you to carefully research credentials before choosing a provider.
• Plan on how to handle complications. If you have complications with any of the implants, how much will it cost you to return to have it corrected? Many patients have been unable to return to the country where they received the implants. They have found that the cost to fix the issues often doubles what the patient paid for the implants. Your initial savings will quickly diminish if there are complications.
• Consider total costs and savings. In addition to the implant costs, consider the cost of travel, accommodations, and food. Also, factor in the costs of returning for follow-up visits.

Other than cost, quality and longevity are two vital concerns when receiving dental implants in any country. You are more likely to receive both from experienced, credentialed implant dentists in the US. Some patients decide to receive implants in phases, paying for one or two before they receive additional implants.

The decision is yours, but we encourage you to list the advantages and disadvantages of receiving treatment from any dentist, whether you choose one in the US or abroad.

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.