Dental implants are the most realistic tooth replacement option on the market. Not only do they look as close to real teeth as possible, but they function like them as well. A dental implant procedure requires a titanium rod’s insertion into your gums and jaw, which then fuses with the jawbone to create an artificial root for your replacement tooth.
The benefits of dental implants are immense, including improving the strength of your jaw, preventing bone resorption, restoring confidence in your smile, and allowing you to speak as you did before tooth loss.
The only drawback of dental implant surgery is the high cost associated with the procedure. Preparation for treatment requires several appointments, X-rays, impressions, and digital scans.
While the exact cost of dental implants varies between patients and their individual needs, it can be a significant upfront investment. This has prompted a surge in dental tourism in recent years for individuals who want a permanent solution without the high price tag. But is it worth it? And is it safe to get a dental implant in Singapore?
What is Dental Tourism?
The term is relatively new and refers to people travelling abroad to seek dental treatment for a lower cost. According to the Ontario Academy of General Dentistry, individuals can expect to receive various common dental procedures abroad for between 40-75% less than would pay at home.
The allure of lower prices and a sunny holiday appeals to some people so intensely that the risks associated with getting dental implant treatment in a foreign country aren’t a consideration. But it’s critical to consider the risks associated with dental implant surgery in Singapore or other parts of Southeast Asia.
Reasons People Consider Dental Tourism
The risks of seeking a dental implant procedure abroad are immense and have serious consequences.
There are two primary reasons people choose to travel for dental work, and they are a lower cost, combined with a holiday. Many people will travel for dental implants if the cost of a plane ticket, accommodation, and food is less than the price of dental implants in Australia.
It might sound good in theory, but by choosing foreign dental work because of your short-term priorities, you fail to consider the long-term issues that can result from making this decision.
Risks of Getting a Dental Implant in Singapore
There are many dangers associated with seeking a dental implant in Singapore, the most prominent one being a language barrier. The inability to understand what you’re agreeing to and communicate clearly with the dentist performing the dental implant treatment can result in complications.
The standards for foreign dental care also differ from those in Australia. The Australian Dental Association adheres to strict infection control guidelines to ensure patients and dental professionals’ safety. These measures can vary significantly between nations.
Lack of infection control measures can increase your risk of exposure to harmful germs and bacteria during surgery, heightening the chances of infection. While unfiltered water isn’t a concern for a dental implant in Singapore specifically, it’s an additional risk to be aware of in nations where you can’t drink the tap water because it isn’t potable.
Seeking dental implant treatment abroad can also result in continuity issues with your long-term care. The attending dental practitioner in Singapore will not have access to your dental history, making them unaware of preexisting conditions or areas of concern.
When you return home, your regular dentist may not know exactly how your dental implant surgery was performed, limiting their ability to rectify any complications that occur.
Keep in mind that even if the goal of having dental implant surgery abroad is to travel and receive affordable treatment, you will need time to recover after the procedure. This means taking time to rest, avoiding vigorous activities, and eating soft foods for the first two weeks. These postoperative measures do not make for an ideal vacation in beautiful Singapore.
Ignoring or not understanding your dentist’s recommendations for recovering from a dental implant treatment can cause loosening of the blood clot at the surgical site, slowing your healing time. Failing to care for the implant site adequately might also increase your chance of infection.
Before you travel for dental implants, you must also consider your insurance coverage. Choosing to get dental implants abroad might void your Australian dental insurance for postoperative care when you return home. Always check with your insurance company before travelling.
Affordable Dental Implants in Australia
At No Gaps Dental, we understand that budgeting for dental implants’ upfront costs can be complex. We want all our patients to have a healthy smile, and dental implants are one of the best ways to achieve this goal.
We offer MacCredit, which delivers funds into your nominated account within a few days of approval. Simply fill out the application form and provide proof of income. MacCredit has plans up to $70,000 with repayment schedules starting at just $30 per week.
Choose No Gaps Dental For Dental Implants
Getting a dental implant in Singapore comes with many associated risks that you don’t usually consider when receiving oral care in Australia. Although low prices and a sunny getaway might be appealing, it’s not worth the dangers you’re exposing yourself to by partaking in dental tourism.
A significant language barrier, different infection control standards, and lack of follow-up care are just a few of the reasons to stay local for dental implants. Your dentist understands your oral care history and can better attend to your needs during the healing process when the procedure has been performed according to Australian Dental Association standards.
To get a quote for dental implants in Australia, contact No Gaps Dental today on (02) 8806 0227 or email us your questions at info@nogapsdental.com.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.