Destination Dentistry: A Perfect Smile Is Closer Than You Think

Veneers in Turkey. Fillers in Thailand. An abdominoplasty in Mexico. These days, it’s not uncommon for travelers to add a clinical procedure to their vacation itinerary—a growing trend known as medical tourism.

The most common type of medical tourism today is dental tourism, which has grown rapidly in recent years. According to this accredited report, dental tourism has become a multi-billion-dollar market and is expected to grow 22% by 2030.

While dental tourism may be growing, future travelers should note there’s another option for affordable cosmetic dentistry, one that doesn’t require a passport or plane ticket abroad: Destination Dentistry right here in the United States.

Why do patients travel for dental care?

Most patients turn to dental tourism for the cost. Receiving care abroad can be more affordable, especially if you don’t have dental insurance or your procedure isn’t covered by insurance.

Cosmetic dental procedures are some of the most popular treatments people seek in other countries. Treatments like:

·      Veneers

·      Crowns 

·      Implants

·      Teeth whitening

·      Dentures

Tacking a dental procedure onto your vacation may seem like a two-birds-one-stone situation, but traveling patients should consider several factors before hopping on a plane for a cheap dentist appointment.

Cost

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While traveling abroad—such as to Turkey or Mexico—for dental procedures like veneers may seem more affordable upfront, hidden costs often tell a different story. International airfare, lodging, local transportation, meals, and the added expense of specialized travel insurance (like Medical Travel and Complications Insurance) can quickly add up.

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If the procedure goes poorly or isn’t up to your standards, you’ll have to redo the procedure elsewhere, costing you double (or more) than what you had planned to spend.

In addition, upon returning from your dental vacation, you will likely need follow-up care. This care may not be covered by insurance, since the procedure was performed abroad, resulting in potential additional out-of-pocket payments.

In contrast, choosing to travel within the United States for dental care offers many of the same benefits, such as access to top-tier providers or lower regional pricing, without the risks and extra costs that come with international travel. Plus, staying within the U.S. makes follow-up care and communication with your provider much easier and more reliable.

Safety

Is dental tourism safe? This is likely the most common concern among travelers and rightfully so. The American Dental Association (ADA) has set high safety standards for dentists operating in the U.S. These standards include:

·      Strict guidelines for infection control monitored by The U.S. Centers for Disease     Control and Prevention.

·      Regulations for radiation safety and the disposal of biomedical waste.

·      Regulations put in place by the Food and Drug Administration regarding the types of drugs and instruments that can be used on patients.

·      Strict qualifications all practicing dental professionals must acquire, like a degree from a dental school accredited by the ADA, passing national exams, and meeting continuing state licensing requirements.

Because of these strict guidelines, patients in the U.S. can feel confident that their dentist has the credentials and safety measures in place to offer adequate care. Regulations for dentists in other countries vary, so patients must be careful to not only find a highly trained dentist, but one who is operating in a location with rigorous guidelines and regulations comparable to the U.S.

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Recovery

Proper recovery is critical for any dental procedure, and the reality is that overseas travel right after treatment can seriously compromise that recovery. 

Traveling abroad adds more risk. Long flights, unfamiliar environments, and limited access to your provider can increase the chance of complications like swelling or infection. If issues arise, you could be stuck needing urgent follow-up care far from home, or forced to extend your foreign stay unexpectedly, adding stress and significant costs to your trip.

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That’s why we believe in destination-worthy dentistry right here in the United States. Our practice offers expert care in a travel-friendly location, without the international hassle, hidden expenses, or recovery risks. You get the high-quality results you want, plus the peace of mind of being closer to home.  

What is Destination Dentistry (and how does it compare to dental tourism)?

At Allure Dental, we are cosmetic dentistry specialists. We understand the desire for a beautiful smile and the work that is required, whether it’s with veneers, gum contouring, or our full Cosmetic Smile Makeover. And we believe these services can be done more safely and more affordably right here at home.

Our office merges luxury, expertise and holistic patient care. That’s why we consider our cosmetic solutions destination-worthy procedures minus the travel abroad.

Our amenities include:

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•      A soothing environment that doesn’t feel like a dentist’s office
•       Plush blankets and neck pillows for your appointment
•     Netflix to keep you entertained (and distracted) while sitting in the chair
•     Noise-cancelling headphones
•     Aromatherapy for deeper relaxation
•     Healthy soups and smoothies post-treatment
•     A friendly and knowledgeable team that takes the time to get to know you
•     Cutting-edge dental technologies to make our services efficient and effective.

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Why choose Destination Dentistry over dental tourism?

If you’re considering cosmetic surgery abroad, destination-worthy dentistry will likely be more cost-effective, safer and provide a more supportive recovery.

Cost

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Minimal travel costs are associated with destination dentistry when done with a US-based provider. You don’t have to purchase additional travel insurance, and you don’t have to worry about an extended stay at your location due to complications.

Safety

Our clinic is fully licensed in the state of Louisiana (located right outside tourist hotspot, New Orleans), holding to the highest standards of cleanliness and medical safety for our clients. Dr. Daniela Eversgerd is a nationally regarded, fully accredited dentist with more than 20 years of experience. She’s received multiple awards from the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. You can trust that with Dr. Daniela, you are in the best hands.

Recovery

We take recovery seriously for our clients. For any procedure, you will receive a personalized recovery plan and scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. You will see the same provider for your procedure and follow-up appointments, guaranteeing continuity of care and a provider who knows you and understands your case.

Allure Dental offers the caliber of care patients hope to find abroad but with the safety, personalized follow-up and professional oversight that can only come from a trusted U.S.-based provider.

As dental tourism continues to grow in popularity, our goal is to offer a safer and more affordable solution for our clients, proving that a better smile isn’t a world away.

Ready to transform your smile safely and affordably? Connect with our team at Allure Dental today to schedule your personalized consultation!

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