How Much Do Dental Implants Cost: Thailand Edition

Getting dental implants is the most effective way to replace lost teeth. This is the gold standard of all restorative dental procedures. They are permanent, natural-looking, and feel like your real teeth. And because it’s the best missing teeth replacement option for most people, one can expect its high cost. This is why many Australians find restorative options in other countries, like Thailand. Thai dentists and specialists offer their dental implants cost at a fraction of the price set here, so many of us consider flying there to save money. But is it worth it? Let’s look at Thailand’s dental implants, why they are popular, how much they cost, and if they are worth the hype.

Dental Implants: An Overview

Dental implants are metal posts or frames surgically implanted beneath your gums into your jawbone. They allow your dentist to put replacement teeth onto them after they’re in place.

Implants give solid support for fake teeth because they bond to your jawbone. Dentures and bridges attached to implants will not slip or move in your mouth, which is a significant advantage when eating and speaking. Individual crowns put over implants and dentures and bridges benefit from this secure fit, which makes them seem more natural than traditional bridges and dentures.

Dental Implants cost

The truth is, the cost of dental implants depends on several key factors: how many teeth do you need to have replaced, the type of implants that will be used, where you are having your procedure done, and whether you need additional work, like a sinus lift or bone graft. To address all these, it’s best to find a dentist that offers free consultation and assesses your needs.

In Australia, Smile.com.au says you should anticipate approximately $3,000 and $5,500 per tooth, with 2020’s National Dental Survey citing a top fee of $5,514 per tooth for a simple procedure. In the event of a sinus lift or bone graft, the cost of the dental implant procedure increases to $11,500.

Dental Guide Australia recommends you budget between $5,000 and $5,500 for a single, simple dental implant, increasing to $6,500 for a more complex procedure. The all-on-4 procedure is in the range of $20,000 – $30,000.

Dental Tourism: The Hype

Let’s admit it: because of the high cost required for this procedure, many are leaning towards saying yes to dental tourism. The rising cost of dental care in many countries is driving the dental tourism movement as people seek more affordable dental work abroad. If you’re facing an unaffordable quote for dental treatment in your home country, visiting a dentist in Thailand, for instance, could be a much cheaper alternative with savings of 50% or more.

Dental Implants in Thailand

Of all the many countries that offer affordable dental implant costs, Thailand is one of the frontrunners. It all boils down to four factors – the cost, the scenic location, the educational background of their dental professionals, and the facilities.

Dental Implant Cost In Thailand

The primary motivation for anyone considering medical or dental treatment overseas is to save money. Dental treatments in Thailand are far less expensive than in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia, with achievable savings of 50% to 70%.

Even though Thailand might not be the cheapest place for dental care, tens of thousands of overseas patients discover that the savings are still sufficient to cover the cost of their flights and lodging.

Cosmetic dentistry is extremely popular in Thailand, but if you have had a lot of work done, you can save more money to have it done here. This country is well known for its dental implants, dental crown, veneers, natural teeth whitening and root canals.

Dental Getaway: An Ideal Location

Because of its location, Thailand attracts visitors from all over the world – including the US, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand – all hoping to save big money on their dental care while enjoying a tropical holiday. Citizens from 40 countries, including those mentioned, can visit Thailand for a short stay without a pre-arranged visa.

Thailand has long been a popular destination for backpackers and sun-seekers alike, thanks to its low prices and abundance of cultural experiences and beaches. Many visitors choose to tag a vacation onto their visit to a local dentist in Thailand – or vice versa – and still, save money compared to the dental implant treatment cost back home.

With dentists in most major cities and tourist hotspots catering to the dental tourism trade, you should find plenty of choices.

Dental Professionals in Thailand

To become a dentist in Thailand, you must finish a 6-year course to earn your degree in dentistry. Then they must work in the public dental system for three years before entering the private sector – otherwise, they must pay back some of their fees to the government. Dentistry is a highly respected career in Thailand since few high school graduates can afford higher education.

If Australia has the Australian Dental Association, Thailand has the Thai Dental Council (TDC). Dentists are automatically granted a licence from the TDC upon graduation. The TDC sets standards for dental professionals concerning education, professional development, attitude, and general competency.

Dental Facilities

What can we expect from a Thai dental clinic? Wherever there is a booming dental tourism industry, dental clinics are tough competition for patients. This encourages them to maintain equipment and facilities that match – if not exceed – those found in tourists’ home countries. Dentists and dental specialists also understand the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations and reviews, so they will do their best to give patients an excellent experience.

Implant Dentistry in Thailand: Where should you Go?

Bangkok. The best place to get dental implants in Thailand is Bangkok, simply because of the number of qualified dentists there. You’ll find hundreds of dental clinics in Thailand’s capital city, but the best dentist in Bangkok will depend on your requirements. Look for a clinic with dentists who are specially trained and experienced in dental implant procedures and those that have partnerships with nearby hotels. This collaboration can allow the dental clinic to offer patients special rates on accommodation.
Phuket. Since so many tourists visit Phuket for a vacation, it’s only natural that the dental tourism industry has spread there.
Others. Chiang Mia or Pattaya has plenty of other tourist hotspots with dental clinics to cater to local and overseas patients.

Dental Implants in Thailand: Are you sure?

We have said everything good about dental tourism in Thailand, but let us not miss the main point. Do not get us wrong – cost is an essential element in your decision-making, but we want you to remember that on your quest to save money, do not compromise your health and safety. Hear us out:

Cost. Yes, dental implants in Thailand cost less than what is offered in Australia. But are you aware of how much your total bill would be? Sometimes, clinics tend to commercialise the cost of the dental implant only and not the whole treatment procedure. You have to make sure that the breakdown of what you’re going to pay for is transparent and inclusive of your procedure and accommodation.

Location. Mixing business with pleasure – what a wonderful thought. A dental holiday in Bangkok or Phuket might sound like a good excuse to stay in a tropical paradise while saving money on dental work, but you should be realistic about your recovery. You probably won’t feel much like hitting the beach the day after having a mouth full of dental implants. Therefore, you should choose accommodation where you’ll feel comfortable resting for a few days, especially if you have major dental work.

Facilities. Yes, many dental clinics in Thailand offer the best services. Many dentists have the most experience in implant dentistry and other complex procedures. However, this doesn’t mean that all dentists in Thailand follow the same high standards. Some may just be chasing a profit with no real commitment to customer care. It’s therefore important to research your choice carefully and find impartial reviews of your selected dentist and clinic.

What to consider when getting dental implants in Thailand

You’ll need to do plenty of research before committing to dental treatment abroad – whether in Thailand or any other destination. Consider things like:

What qualifications does the dentist have? Are they specialists in the work you’re having done?
Is the dentist committed to continuing education?
How much experience does the dentist have with your procedure?
Do they speak good enough English for you to communicate comfortably?
Have you seen an up-to-date price list?
How and when will you pay for your treatment?
Is the work guaranteed, and for how long?
If you book a package (procedure, recovery, and accommodation), what extra benefits are included?
Will your clinic provide transport to and from the airport and your hotel?

It’s possible to save hundreds or thousands of dollars by getting dental treatment such as dental implants in Thailand. The more work you need, the more you stand to save with Thailand’s dental costs.

However, it would be best if you didn’t base your decision on cost alone. Read reviews of different dentists and ask for recommendations from past patients to find out which clinic will suit you best. Once you have narrowed down your options, ask as many questions as necessary to feel comfortable about your planned treatment and any aftercare.

Dental tourism isn’t right for everyone, and if you want to know more about what you should expect and have a clear standard as to how dental implant treatment happens, do not hesitate to contact DDSS. Contact us at (02) 9158 6328 to talk to our dental team and set an appointment. Thailand certainly offers great potential for a dental holiday and is well worth considering if you hope to save money by getting dental work overseas.