So often I come across patients who have traveled to Thailand, India, China and other countries to have their dental work done. They have a 5-star holiday thrown in. I feel very sorry for them because most of the work fails within 5 years, and they need to re-do all the work. It is true that no one likes going to the dentist, but in reality, delay and lacking timely Preventive Dental Treatment leads to high costs.
A “Stitch in time saves time”, and Preventive Care started early, is cheap and most affordable. Why wait till the mouth is totally broken down?
The Perils of Overseas Dental Work
Last week, a patient came in with massive swelling and pain under his crowns. He had traveled to Thailand to have this work done. Yes, had a few fillings to be done, but under general anesthetic, he had been fitted with 24 crowns, 19 Root Canals and 1 dental implant. All billed to his credit card. This is his x-ray. The patient was 31 years of age. Those clinics know that you will leave on a specified date and so everything is rushed, and completed, without giving the body time to assimilate and heal.
Perception vs. Reality
Clinics overseas are impressive, with glass and mirrors and that the staff are qualified in the US or Germany or the UK. Does anyone really check that this is true? Would Kiwis allow overseas dentists to work here without being Dental Council re certified? Going to a NZ dentist keeps us all safe and protected. The work is documented and must meet the standard of care.
When patients travel overseas for treatment, they willfully discard the protections of New Zealand and the safe environment here and opt for a risky adventure. If something goes wrong, ACC is not involved in your protection and rehabilitation. You are on your own and trying to sort it out here can be a lifetime’s nightmare.
Please think again before you decide to travel overseas for dental work. We have seen large numbers of patients who have had serious complications of overseas treatment, but they NEVER go on the Newstalk ZB to tell others not to do it. They are embarrassed and feel cheated and they keep quiet and do not tell anyone.
Learn More With Caring 4 Smiles Dental Group
Caring 4 Smiles Dental Group is a team of caring professionals who begin with patients as young as 1 year. We train mum and dad to care for their children’s teeth. In doing so, they give their baby the most amazing gift.
The gift of a Beautiful Smile that lasts a Lifetime.
To see us, please call the practice on 09-6315416 or book online.
Let your Smile reflect your Lifestyle
