12 Important Dental Tourism Tips For A Successful Dental Vacation By Certified Doctors And Dentists

By Author: David
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Here's all the information the dental tourist needs from dental vacation FAQ's to the difference between Board Certified, Certified & General Dentists. Learn how to obtain the most accurate estimates, 2nd opinions, dentist credentials checks, special needs, handicapped and dental anxious patients, guarantees and more.

1. What are the Different Types of Dentists in Mexico?
Ans. General dentists are only trained in the basics - drilling, filling cavities and normal extractions. Many general dentists in developing nations call themselves ‘specialists’ in endodontics, dental implants etc. When in reality - most have never attended a specialist college to learn surgery properly. And implants are surgery.

Certified dentists graduated from 4 yrs. basic dental college and completed a year's public service in a government clinic (Mexico) and then went on to specialist college for another 2-4 years. A certified dentist is far better than a general dentist for complicated treatments, but if not Board Certified (next paragraph) the results can be like hiring a lawyer who didn't pass the bar exam.

A ...
... Board Certified Dentist - has a graduate degree in a recognized dental specialty and studied for and passed the tough board exams (written, oral and lab) in a particular field.

2. Why Choose a Board Certified Dentists Internationale' member?

Ans. If you are looking for quality we promise that you will be treated by a dentist who is fully trained and accredited for your specific needs. Our patient adviser staff consists of doctors and dentists. Not call center agents!

3. How Can I Find a Certified Dentist?

Ans. Our Association members are all specialist dentists fully trained and certified in the procedures most dental tourism patients need. Board certified dentists are less than 1% of the dentists in Mexico and certified specialists 5-10%. As many as 90% of the ones on some of the dental tourism agency websites are non-certified according to the Mexican Dental Association.

4. Do Board Certified Dentists Cost More?

You can find cheaper dentists, but they won't be certified for the advanced procedures most dental tourists want. And they often use low-cost inferior materials. Our members have impeccable credentials and are typically as affordable as many non-certified dentists in developing countries.

5. Free 2nd Opinions & Credentials Checks - Simply forward your medical or dental treatment plan, estimate and x-rays to us. We can check databases to verify prospective dentists for you.

6. What About Special Needs Patients?

Ans. Yes. Some handicapped patients may require their dental treatments be be performed in a hospital setting due to a variety of physical and psychological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, heart conditions etc. We offer hospitals, clinics, anesthesiologists and doctors qualified and experienced in treating patients with special needs.

7. Dental Anxiety Patients

Afraid of the dentist? You are not alone. Approximately 10% of the population is. Certified specialist dentists have additional training in caring for dental sensitive patients in addition to having an array of sedation and sleep dentistry options to make your experience safe and comfortable. Feel free to discuss your needs with your patient adviser.

8. Payment for Services.

Most clinics require 50% down on the first visit for major treatments and the balance on completion. Most member dental clinics accept credit cards, local and US currency. Most charge 4-6% for credit card payments. In some countries VAT is added. Many offer discounts for cash payments. Bank wire transfers, Western Union and PayPal are acceptable for some. Traveler’s checks and personal checks are sometimes acceptable. Check with your patient adviser. Carrying cash amounts over $10,000 per person or collectively per traveling family needs be declared in most countries.

9. What About Guarantees on Dental Work?

Ans. Our Association members stand behind their work. Most guarantee their work for 2-5 years depending on the procedures. Your best guarantee for quality dentistry in Mexico and elsewhere abroad is to follow the advice of the American Dental Association which is to always use the services of a board certified dentist.

10. How Long Should I Plan For My Dental Vacation?

Ans. If you live within driving distance of an international border such as US/Mexico - you can schedule your appointment for the day you arrive. Some clinics see patients on Saturdays and may be closed on Mondays, religious holidays and for soccer team victory celebrations.

Many dental tourists fly to another country for major work such as dental implants, bridges etc. and a 1 week stay is normally sufficient time. Full-mouth oral restorations can take 10 days to 2 weeks with lab time. If having dental implants, they can be completed in One-Day with some systems or with conventional implants you may have to return months later for the permanent crown.

11. Is Medical Tourism Safe?

Ans. We advise patients if there are reasons to consider alternative destinations.

Mexican dental tourism destinations such as Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, Tijuana, Los Algodones and Cancun have lower crime rates than Orlando, Las Vegas and Honolulu according to FBI stats. When visiting a big city in another country one should take the same precautions one would take when visiting any major city back home.

12. How much will I save with medical and dental tourism?

Ans. Dental Tourism patients save 50-75% in Mexico. And the most in Manila. Patients often save anywhere from a few thousand dollars on several crowns to as much as $45,000 usd on major dental makeovers. See a worldwide dental treatments & prices survey.

CERTIFIED DOCTORS & DENTISTS INTERNATIONALE' ASSOCIATION offers top specialists Mexico, Costa Rica, South America, Eastern Europe & Asia. Discover the best medical and dental tourism places with the best prices!