Medical and Dental Tourism in India - Part 4

Part 4 - Dental Tourism

In the previous posts we have discussed the pros and cons of medical tourism as well as practical advice for those considering travelling for medical treatment.

In the section we will look specifically at dental tourism, drawing on our experience at Smile Station in Bangalore, India.

What is Dental Tourism?

Dental tourism is a subset of medical tourism. Sometimes also called a "dental vacation" when people combine a foreign holiday with seeking dental treatment.

Why is dental tourism becoming more popular?

Many people who have private, or government provided, medical insurance do not have dental coverage and therefore have to pay the full cost of treatment. Even those who have dental insurance are not covered for many treatments, such as implants and cosmetic dentistry. Extensive reconstructive or cosmetic treatment can be expensive. In the USA and Europe, comprehensive dental treatment has become unaffordable for many.

Travelling for dental treatment is popular, largely due to wide variations in treatment costs between countries.In some cases treatment may be much more affordable in a neighbouring country, such as in Mexico compared to the USA. People from the UK may travel to Hungary or Poland in Eastern Europe where treatment costs are considerably lower.

India is popular with individuals who have family in India and are living abroad as they may seek dental treatment whilst visiting relatives. Others visit for work, vacation or a spiritual retreat and take advantage of quality, affordable dental care whilst in India.

India offers a rich cultural experience and a full range of options, from budget to 5 star hotels, for those looking to combine dental treatment with an unforgettable vacation. 

Depending on the procedure, it is possible to make savings of 50-90% compared to the cost of treatment in the USA or Europe. Even after adding travel and accommodation costs, big savings can be made. 

Developing countries are able to offer more affordable care due to lower overhead expenses, such as the cost of labour, insurance and less bureaucratic red tape. However, there is also generally less regulation of the dental profession.  There is currently no independent, international inspection committee for dentistry, unlike the Joint Commission International (JCI) which accredits hospital and medical care providers. Therefore, it is vital to do your research well in order to find a well qualified, experienced and ethical dentist.

Which procedures are suitable for dental tourism?

The most popular procedures for dental tourists are:

• Dental Implants
  
• Tooth coloured filllings
• Crowns and bridges
• Veneers
• Dentures
• Implant retained dentures
• Root canal treatment
• Periodontal (gum) treatment
• Tooth whitening
• Smile design and makeover

Procedures are usually elective (planned in advance) although emergency treatment may also be sought by those travelling for business or pleasure.

What do I need to consider if I am planning dental treatment abroad?

The tips and advice for those considering medical tourism in the previous part of this blog (click for link) also apply to dental tourism.

In addition:

• Do your research and get recommendations and reviews from verified patients.
• Check your dentist's training and experience and whether they have international qualifications or certification.
• Make sure that the clinic is clean and sterilization protocols are followed.
• Find out about the treatment and how many visits will be required.
• Discuss the best treatment option for you and any risks or precautions.
• For complex restorative treatment, such as implants, crowns and bridges, the timing of multiple visits will need to be carefully planned.
• Find out what travel and activities may be advised or avoided in the post treatment phase.
• Enquire about treatment costs and any guarantees for implants, crowns and bridges etc.
• Consider whether you will be able to return for follow-up or maintenance, or whether you will require follow-up treatment in your home country.

The Smile Station Experience

At Smile Station, in Bangalore, we are regularly welcome international clients, as well as those from other parts of India. Our team of internationally trained and certified consultants are able to provide a full range of dental treatment under one roof. Treatment options, along with their risks and benefits are fully explained so that you can make an informed choice. We have a proven track record in providing high quality, professional and ethical care. 

The clinic environment is relaxed and welcoming and we specialize in helping those who are anxious about dental treatment. The practice is well equipped with the latest technology and materials and a strict sterilization protocol is followed. We used internationally acclaimed dental laboratories to provide world class restorative treatment at an affordable cost. We are also able to arrange airport transfers and travel and accommodation in India.

We have received great feedback from our international clients, many of whom return to Smile Station whenever they are in India.

Here are just two testimonials:

“What an incredible experience! I needed four crowns Dr. Gurudev & his staff went out of their way to accommodate me in the short time I was in Bangalore. Friendly and Professional service at a fraction of the cost in the US.” 

Linda Busi, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

Dr. Guru Dev is one of the best dentist I have ever been to....and I've had a lot of excellent dentistry in my life....with having 26 gold porcelain crowns in my 20's. While in India for a long time I had some serious dental problems that I saw 2 dentist for...both of whom said that the tooth needed to be pulled. Being extremely emotionally sensitive to dentistry and feeling no trust in either of them a friend suggested I go see Dr. Guru Dev. He took charge right away with calmness, and gentleness through every procedure. He saved that tooth through a very complicated root canal, and then came the crown. He became my dentist from that point on ....through an extraction, and eventually to an implant which I was very scared to have done. Now back in the US every dentist I see asks who did it and how well done it is. I have had no problems since. I only wish Dr. Guru Dev had a dental practice on the West Coast of the US! Thank you Dr. Guru Dev for all your care and professionalism. Lucky people in Bangalore! 

Christinea Johnson, California, USA


If you would like to know more, please check the Smile Station website (click for link)

Medical and Dental Tourism in India - Part 3

Part 3 - Tips and Advice

In the previous section we looked at the pros and cons of medical tourism. 

If you are considering travelling for medical treatment it is important to know your options and prepare well.

 

Do your homework

Find out about the proposed procedure, the benefits and risks.  Research which destinations and treatment centres have a proven track record and good reputation for the specialty. The Patients Beyond Borders website has a lot of good information (click for link). 

You can also check the Joint Commision International's service World Hospital Search to find JCI accredited health care organizations (click for link).





If possible, get reviews or talk to others who have had the same procedure or been to the same clinic or hospital. Find out if the medical staff speak your language or whether you will require an interpreter.

Finding the best doctor or physician

If possible, get personal recommendations of doctors from those who have been treated by them. Do not rely on reviews on the internet as there is no way to check if they are genuine.

You can check a doctor's qualifications, licence to practice and membership of professional associations. Find out where a doctor did their training and how many years they have been in practice. Check if the doctor is board certified (USA), or on the specialist list (in other countries) for the area they are working in. For example, if a doctor or surgeon trained in the USA, they may be American Board Certified and working in another country.

Doctors who are well known in their field have often published research papers, which you can search for on-line.

Find out which hospitals or clinics the doctor or surgeon practices in, and whether these are internationally accredited.

Ask questions

You should be able to speak to the doctor or surgeon before you travel, either by phone or on-line consultation.

Here are some questions to ask:

• How many of this type of procedure have you performed and what is your success rate?
• Where and how will you perform my procedure?
• Is the surgical facility accredited?
• What are the risks associated with the procedure and how can these be minimised?
• What is the cost of treatment?
• What is the expected recovery time, what kind of help would I need in the recovery phase and when would I be able to return home?
• How do you deal with any complications, if they arise?

  

Know your rights

Find out how the medical profession is regulated in the country you are travelling to and who you could contact in case of any concerns or complaints. Check your doctor's qualifications and membership of professional and licencing associations. Find out about travel insurance for your trip and what it will, and will not, cover.

 

Have realistic expectations

A good doctor will advise on various options for treatment as well as expected recovery time and possible side effects. Beware of those who offer miracle cures.

 

Consult with local physician or surgeon and arrange follow-up care upon your return

It is important to inform your local physician of your intention to travel. They may be able to give you valuable advice in addition to arranging any follow up care you may require.

Medical records

You will need to take records of your complete medical history, or have these transferred to the doctor who will be treating you. It is also important to obtain the medical records of your treatment for your physician in your home country.

 

Travel with a friend or relative

It can help to have moral support and someone to help you, especially in the recovery phase.

 

Find out about visa regulations

If you need a visa you need to allow sufficient time for the application process. Some countries allow for visa on arrival at the airport.

 

Budget for all associated costs

Whilst calculating savings for your medical care, don't forget to budget for all costs such as flights and transfers, visas, food and accommodation and vacation activities.

 

Pre-travel health advice

Consult a travel health provider at least 6 weeks prior travel to arrange any necessary vaccinations and any other precautions, e.g. antimalarial measures, which may be required for your destination. You should also discuss the risks of travelling, and especially flying after surgery. Air travel is not recommended for at least 7-10 days following many types of surgery.

 

Plan timing of any travel and vacation activities

Depending on the planned treatment, you will need to allow enough time for rest and recovery. It may be better to plan sightseeing and other activities before, rather than after surgery.

 

Consider using a medical tourism facilitator

A medical tourism facilitator can help in all the arrangements, from the planning stage right up until follow-up care in your home country. Be aware that there is no standard regulation for medical tourism facilitators. Choose a facilitator who is highly recommended by previous clients and has international accreditation.

In the last section, we will look more specifically at Dental Tourism

Medical and Dental Tourism in India - Part 1

What is Medical Tourism?

Medical tourism is the term used when someone travels for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment. Although some definitions include domestic medical tourism, within the same country, the term is mostly used for foreign medical travel. The number of medical tourists is on the increase. Although it is difficult to obtain reliable statistics, it is estimated that currently between 8 and 12 million people travel abroad annually for healthcare. The medical tourism market is thought to be growing at a rate of 15-25% annually.

In the past, the majority of medical tourists were from less developed countries travelling to seek treatments that were not available in their home country. Whilst this is still the case, more recently, the trend is for people to travel abroad to seek treatment at a lower cost. 

The phrase "medical tourism" may be relatively new but the practice of travelling for health reasons dates back to antiquity. One of the earliest known destinations is Epidauria, in ancient Greece, which was believed to be the birthplace of Apollo's son, Asclepeios, the healer. From the 6th century BC or even earlier, those who were sick would travel long distances to seek healing. 

In Israel, the Dead Sea is believed to be one of the world's first health resorts, dating back to the time of King Herod the Great. For over two thousand years up to the present time people have traveled to the Dead Sea for health therapies, due to the high mineral content of the water and beneficial climatic features.   

Why do people choose to travel for healthcare?

There may be many factors involved in a person's choice. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Cost

Treatment abroad may be available at a fraction of the compared to the USA or Europe. It is estimated that 40 to 45 million Americans (one in seven) do not have health insurance and many more may be under-insured. Some people are unable to get insurance for a pre-existing condition. Even for those who have insurance, certain treatments and procedures may not be covered (eg. cosmetic surgery) and for some treatments the deductible amount the patient has to pay may be higher than the total cost of travelling abroad for treatment. 

Less Waiting

In countries with nationalized health services, such as the Canada, Australia, the UK and many other European countries, there may be long waiting lists for important surgeries. By seeking treatment abroad, individuals may be able to get treatment with minimal or no waiting.

Treatment not available at home

Some treatments may not be available due to lack of resources. Other procedures may be unauthorised or even illegal, in the person's own country eg. new, experimental treatments, some reproductive technologies or surrogacy. People also travel for traditional medical practices, such as Ayurveda, in India.

Tourism

People may use the chance to have a vacation see a new place whilst also receiving medical treatment.

Which specialties are popular with medical tourists?

• Orthopedics - including hip and knee operations
• Heart Surgery
• Fertility and Reproductive Health
• Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery
• Oncology (cancer treatment)
• Weight loss surgery
• Ophthalmology (eye surgery)
• Dentistry

Where are the top medical tourism destinations?

• Malaysia - burns treatment, health screening
• Thailand - cosmetic surgery
• India - surgery, especially heart surgery and orthopedics
• Brazil - cosmetic surgery
• Singapore - many surgical specialties and stem cell treatments
• Costa Rica - cosmetic surgery, dentistry
• Hungary - dentistry
• Mexico - dentistry and cosmetic surgery
• Turkey - ophthalmology

amongst many other countries.


In further posts we will look more specifically at the pros and cons of medical tourism, tips and advice for those considering medical care abroad and more specifically at medical and dental tourism in India.