I want to have several dental implants done and I’ve had a few consultations here in the United States. All of the dentists said that I’m a good candidate, but it’s just way too expensive. I recently heard about a small clinic in Costa Rica that will perform all the work at a price I can afford, and I mean, really, who could turn down a vacation AND a new smile?! The doctor said he trained here in the U.S. and has a minor in implant dentistry from a reputable American school. It seems like everything is a green light, but I wanted to check in before I booked my travel. Are there any concerns about dental tourism in Costa Rica? — Sam
Sam,
Before you start packing your bags, there a definitely a few things you should think about. While this may sound like a trip of a lifetime, there have actually been some frightening reports coming out of Costa Rica lately. Though they can’t be confirmed, quite a few people have come back to the States after getting dental implants, veneers, and other cosmetic work and have said nothing went according to plan or that they were injured in the process.
As for the doctor’s credentials, they sound very sketchy. First of all, in American dental schools, there are no minors. Moreover, someone can study a specialty, but there are only nine recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) and dental implants are not on that list. In other words, the credentials are bogus.
It’s very easy for a clinic to set up a website and say whatever they want in some countries. Many of them change names repeatedly in order to shake off their bad reputations. In addition to finding out more about the doctor’s credentials and verifying which, if any, he has, you should also research the clinic and the doctor to see if there are reports of inappropriate behavior.
Perhaps the most concerning thing about dental tourism in Costa Rica is that you may have little to no recourse if there’s a problem. The laws are much different, and if the doctor refuses to correct any errors or damage he has caused, you could have a lengthy battle and still wind up without a positive resolution.
While dental implants often cost more in the United States, you’re better protected from negligence and false credentials. These kinds of things wouldn’t fly in America, and if a doctor doesn’t take care of his patients properly, he can face legal consequences. When you’re considering something as serious as a surgery, you deserve to have protection under the law and a competent doctor performing the work. Because you cannot guarantee this with most foreign options, you may well be trading your health and safety for saving a little cash and a vacation you’ll want to forget!
This blog post is brought to you by Des Moines cosmetic dentist, Dr. Phelan Thomas. For more information on the services he provides, please visit his Des Moines cosmetic dentist website.