The Role of the Dental Agent in Dental Tourism

Why Travel for Dental Care?

Dental tourism means traveling out of your region or country for dental care. Why do people choose dental care outside of their healthcare community? The reasons range from dental estimates exceeding their budget to the opportunity dental tourism may provide to receive high quality and reasonably priced dental care while traveling. A Danube cruise departing from Budapest or the opportunity to experience the European Christmas Fairs are good examples of vacation destinations that offer the opportunity to receive dental care. Others may travel because the quality and price are right and the area or country is very convenient for travel. Some travel for the opportunity to visit family if they are an ex-pat. Whatever your reasons, dental travel is a very safe and viable option for higher priced dental procedures such as implants, bridges, dentures or crowns. If this is an option you are considering, the process can be challenging to locate the right dentist, country, technology and quality care - regardless of your travel experience.

You have made the decision to travel for your dental care - so what's next?

Once you have determined that dental travel is a great alternative to receive dental care, you must start the process of identifying a dental clinic that will meet your needs. I have reviewed these options in prior blog posts. Review those issues you should consider before making your decision and conduct your research carefully!

How should I proceed?

Whether your dental needs are major, such as roots canals, sinus lifts, bone grafting, bridges or implants, or minor – such as a simple crown or veneer, knowing specifically what your needs or desires are is important. A current treatment plan and estimate along with radiology films or CT scans from your dentist allows a comparable estimate to be transparent. You should expect high quality customer service from the clinic or agent, which includes direct communication or a call back/EM within twenty four hours. Outline your questions answered and keep detailed notes.

Why choose a dental agent?

Is the clinic or the dentist available to advocate for you if there is a problem? Or, does the clinic use the services of a dental agent who may be more accessible for your questions. Are there time zone issues that make communication difficult? Do they speak English? Communication is vital to maintain the confidence necessary to know you are making the right decision. Is the pricing transparent, meaning, are all procedures and costs outlined and organized in an understandable format? Are the procedures bundled? Could there be any hidden fees? Who can you ask all these myriad of questions to?

Dental agents represent the clinic or a medical/dental tourism business and coordinate dental appointments for you. The dental agent is often much more accessible than a clinic directly and can spend the time with you answering the many questions you may have, or explain the indications and timeframes recommended for certain procedures. The dental agent should be available throughout this process to aid you in making your decision, understanding the treatments you anticipate you may need and helping you with your budget. The agent will be your consumer advocate, problem solve along the way, assist with travel recommendations and be there to help you out regardless of whatever your needs or questions are. A clinic or medical tourism business or internet site that utilizes dental agents has increased credibility. Quality of care and your health maintenance are the most important decisions you can make for yourself. Remember, price is important but your health and clinical outcome are paramount. Choose wisely and make sure you have the best dental treatment possible.