Thinking of having a Dental Implant? Before taking the plunge, there are some very important things to consider; particularly if you are considering getting a treatment abroad. The initial costs may look attractive but the wider issues of standards and after care could prove more costly in the long term.
People lose teeth due to injury or gum disease perhaps; causing issues with eating and potential further difficulties with the surrounding teeth that may move due to the gap; eventually causing the face to look more caved in. A dental implant is an ideal replacement; giving a natural look and feel. There are a number of restorative procedures for a missing tooth including the use of dentures which have long been a popular choice. However, these don’t have the durability or permanence of a dental implant.
A dental implant is a small titanium rod is placed into the jaw bone and acts as a replacement for the root portion of a missing tooth in your mouth. It is then possible to fit an artificial replacement for the missing tooth on top of the rod. A firm foundation for the new tooth is created as the jaw bone eventually heals around the rod.
There are a number of options for those looking for a dental implant treatments overseas which may appear a cheaper option. However, despite the potential for savings and a possible holiday combined with treatment overseas, there are other factors to consider:
Regulatory Standards – In the UK we have standards set out by the General Dental Council and it is not certain whether the same standards will abide in other countries.
Problems – Although competent professionals will have a 90-95% success rate, things can go wrong and dental implants do sometimes fail whether you have treatment in the UK or abroad. If you have your treatment in the UK, then booking an appointment to fix the problem is a lot easier; involving a lot less time off work and additional cost in terms of flights and accommodation.
After care – The initial implant may have been cheaper abroad but once you have had your implant treatment, you should have follow up aftercare appointments which would mean taking more time off work, booking a flight and a hotel to see your dentist again – all adding to the cost.
Continuity of care – Using your UK based dentist means you will have continuity of care, seeing the same person for all your appointments. If your treatment is abroad, you may find that you see different dentists who are unfamiliar with your treatment and care. There may also be difficulties regarding the language barrier.
Find out more about Dental Implants here.