If you find yourself avoiding smiling or covering your mouth to hide a missing tooth, you might want to consider dental implants. They can increase your self-confidence and close any gaps in your smile.
Many Australians consider getting their dental implant in Malaysia. Dental implant cost, especially for multiple replacement teeth, can be daunting, and the prices in Malaysia appeal to many Australians.
However, travelling to Malaysia for your dental work comes with higher risks than remaining in Australia and getting your dental implants from your local dentist.
You’ll save yourself a journey, make it easier to attend follow up appointments, and protect yourself from the risks associated with dental tourism.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a permanent alternative to dentures or bridges that work by surgically implanting an artificial tooth directly into the jaw.
They consist of three parts: The implant, the abutment and the crown.
The implant is shaped like a screw and typically made of titanium and surgically implanted into the jaw. Over time, your jawbone grows around the implant, holding it securely in place.
The abutment is a small structure that connects the implant and the artificial tooth. It’s usually added to the implant after you’ve healed from the first surgery.
The most visible component of your dental implant is your dental crown. Dental implants can replace one or more teeth.
Dental Implants: The Process
The process for dental implant surgery is involved, particularly if you are interested in replacing more than one tooth.
First, your dentist performs a thorough examination of your jaw and teeth using X-rays or 3D imaging, and formulates the best plan for you. You may first need bone grafting to strengthen your jaw’s density, or additional extractions to make room for the implants.
Once you are healed from these treatments, you’ll schedule the date of your implant surgery.
On the day of your implant surgery, your dentist might use local anaesthesia and an IV to sedate you, minimising your discomfort. They place the implant into your jawbone where it fuses and secures itself over the next 3-6 months, creating a new root for your replacement tooth.
After you’ve healed, your dentist places the abutment with a minor surgery. The abutment prevents the gum tissue from growing over the dental implant.
Lastly, your dentist makes an impression of your mouth to custom create your artificial tooth or teeth. Once your dentist has finished making the replacement, they insert it and conduct a final fitting.
Risks Associated With Getting a Dental Implant in Malaysia
Getting your dental implants abroad might seem like a more affordable option, but dental tourism has several downsides.
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Less Regulation
In Australia, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Dental Board create strict regulations that all dentists must follow. In addition, dentists must continue their professional development by keeping up-to-date with new technologies, medicines, and breakthroughs in dentistry.
In Malaysia, the regulations are not as strict as in Australia, and registration requirements have only come into effect in recent years. It might also be harder to pursue a case as a foreigner against a dentist if something goes wrong.
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Harder to Make Follow-Up Appointments
The dental implant process can take a long time and requires at least three separate appointments. If you get your dental implant in Malaysia, you’ll have to travel to another country for your appointments, meaning you’ll need to take more time off work and spend more on flights.
Even after the process is complete, there is always a potential for infection. You’ll want to see your dentist periodically to ensure your implants remain in good shape. While an Australian dentist can perform these follow-up appointments for you, it’s easier to go through the whole process with the dentist who performed the initial procedures.
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Recovering Away From Home
After a surgery, most people prefer to recover at home, where they have a support system and know the area. After receiving your dental implants, you might need to observe food restrictions while the incision heals.
Food in a foreign country can be an exciting adventure, but can also be confusing. Your comfort foods might not be available, and depending on your accommodation, you might not be able to cook for yourself. At the shops, it might be hard to understand the labels.
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Language Barrier
Dental tourism often means you’ll receive treatment in a foreign language. It’s critical that you understand the implications of any medical procedure. When a practice primarily operates in another language, sometimes there might be missed meanings or incorrect translations.
In Australia, dentists must prove their proficiency in English, meaning that they can explain everything to you and answer any questions clearly.
Lowering the Dental Implant Cost in Australia
Australians often consider dental tourism solely because they believe the procedure is cheaper abroad.
However, there are several options to lower your dental implant cost without leaving Australia.
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Talk to your health insurer
Your health insurance might pay for some of your dental implant surgery costs if it is deemed medically necessary. They might not cover them if you get your dental implant in Malaysia.
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Payment Plans
If you cannot pay the full fee, consider following a payment plan. No Gaps Dental offers plans through MacCredit that start as low as $30 per week. Spreading out your dental implant cost over an extended period might make it more affordable.
Set Up Your First Appointment Today
If you’re interested in learning more about getting your dental implants with No Gaps Dental, call us today to book your appointment. Instead of pursuing dental tourism, consider an option closer to home.
We’re available on (02) 8007 6727, or you can book online.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.