Sun, sea and se... dental tourism! That's right, you didn't read that wrong.

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by: Danielle Server
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Word Count: 472
Date: Tue, 23 Nov 2010 Time: 10:56 AM
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Most people go away to relax, see the sights and get some sun; however, an increasing number of people are choosing to go abroad for dental treatment.

Holidays are an annual highlight for most people, an opportunity to relax in the sunshine, get a taste of different cultures and experience new food, customs and traditions; however, for many people, a trip abroad is also a chance to save some money on cosmetic or dental treatment.

A booming industry

Dental tourism is booming, as people travel abroad in a bid to save money on complex dental treatments, which can cost thousands of pounds in the UK, Western Europe and America. Popular destinations for European travellers include Easter European countries, including Romania, Hungary and Bulgaria. American tourists tend to head for Mexico to save a few dollars and travellers from Australia and New Zealand often opt for Asian countries, including India and Thailand.

It's all about price

The main selling-point of dental tourism is the reduction in price; in some cases, prices can be up to 65 percent lower than those in countries including the UK, America, France, Australia and Germany. Another major advantage is the lack of waiting lists; some people choose to go ahead and book a trip abroad because they would have to wait weeks or even months for treatment in their own country.

New dental clinics are popping up all over the globe and tourists are being lured in by the attractive costs and the appeal of a relaxing break away; for most, the cost of the treatment at home equates to the same price as treatment and a luxury holiday if they choose to go away.

Is it all quite so wonderful?

It may seem like dental tourism is a brilliant, win-win situation; however, dental experts and foreign office ministers are keen to promote safety and are urging tourists to plan their trip carefully before they go. Often, standards of cleanliness and expertise are lower in other countries and clinics do not offer the protection of clinics in Western Europe and America. Experts are advising patients to choose clinics that have been approved by tour operators and health boards; the idea of going away may seem idyllic but the cost of a botched operation could total thousands in addition to the obvious trauma of being stuck abroad with potentially serious health problems.

Nowadays, there are a number of specialist travel companies who organise trips specifically for dental tourists; the cost of the booking includes the treatment, as well as travel, accommodation and follow-up care and therefore prevents the patient being lumbered with unexpected additional costs; the companies also ensure that the dentist and clinic are approved.

About the Author

If dental treatment abroad isn't your bag then there are still plenty of experienced dentists on your doorstep like heaton mersey orthodontics who offer a range of cosmetic treatments to make sure your smile is top of the pops. Why not go for the ultimate in invisible braces: invisalign.