Are you thinking of getting cosmetic dentistry like dental implants in Thailand? 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 could be a much cheaper alternative with savings of 50% or more.
In this guide you can read about:
- Why dental tourism in Thailand is amongst the best in the world
- The best places to get dental work in Thailand, including Bangkok and Phuket
- The most popular types of treatment
- Thailand dental prices and savings
- Things to consider before you book a dental holiday
We hope this information helps you decide whether you should get major dental treatment such as teeth implants in Thailand.
In This Article
Why is Thailand dental tourism so popular?
There are several factors that have contributed to Thailand’s 20+ years as a major hub for dental tourism, including cost, the beautiful location, and the stringent education requirements.
Thailand dental costs
The main reason anyone considers travelling abroad for medical care is to save money. Dental work in Thailand costs considerably less than in the UK, the US, and Australasia, with possible savings of around 50-70%.
Although Thailand might not be the cheapest country for dental work, tens of thousands of patients each year still find the savings large enough to cover the cost of their flights and accommodation, too.
Cosmetic dentistry is particularly popular in Thailand, but you can still save money on more routine work if you have enough done. Keep reading to learn more about Thailand dental prices for procedures including:
- Dental implants
- All-on-4 (full mouth implants)
- Veneers
- Crowns
- Teeth whitening
- Root canals
An ideal location for a dental vacation
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 different 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 dentist in Thailand – or vice versa – and still save money compared to the cost of the dental work back home.
With dentists in most major cities and tourist hotspots catering to the dental tourism trade, you should find yourself with plenty of choices.
Education and regulation of dentists in Thailand
Dentists in Thailand must study for six years at one of the country’s nine dental schools to obtain their DDS degree. 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 so few high school graduates can afford higher education.
The primary governing body for dentists in Thailand is the Thai Dental Council (TDC). Dentists are automatically granted a licence from the TDC upon graduation. The TDC sets standards for dental professionals with regards to education, professional development, attitude, and general competency.
There is currently no requirement for continuing education in order to maintain the licence, but the TDC encourages dentists to attend courses to keep up-to-date with current practices.
It’s a good idea to ask your dentist what, if any, continuing education they have undergone. The best dentists in Thailand should show a commitment to this even though it’s not mandatory.
Facilities and standards
Wherever there is a booming dental tourism industry, dental clinics are in tough competition for patients. This encourages them to maintain equipment and facilities that match – if not exceed – those found in tourists’ home countries. Dentists also understand the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations and reviews, so they will do their best to give patients an excellent experience.
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.
Also bear in mind that one person’s bad experience doesn’t necessarily mean the dentist is bad. Procedures sometimes fail, even when carried out by the most experienced dental professionals. But you can often tell a lot from the way they handle the situation and whether the patient ends up satisfied.
The best places for dental work in Thailand
Bangkok
Arguably 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 for you will depend on your requirements. Look for a clinic with dentists who are specially trained and experienced in the procedure(s) you need, especially if you’re getting dental implants. Then do your own research by checking independent reviews – don’t just rely on a clinic’s own customer testimonials.
Bangkok dentists are in fierce competition for international patients and many clinics have better standards of care and more modern facilities than you’ll be used to back home. However, there are also plenty of shady operators in the market which makes researching your choice all the more important.
Bangkok is a large city and, although there is a modern public transport system and an abundance of taxis, you’ll probably appreciate having accommodation close to your chosen clinic. Save the travelling for days when you’re in the mood for sightseeing, not still under anaesthetic from having dental implants placed. And make sure you do keep some days free because there is a lot more to do than just visit a dentist in Bangkok.
Many clinics have partnerships with nearby hotels and can offer patients special rates on accommodation. You’ll find that your room is included in your package if you’re having enough work done, and some larger dental hospitals even have their own boutique accommodation on-site.
Other clinics are located inside shopping malls which can make them easier to find if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Read more about visiting a dentist in Bangkok.
Phuket
Since so many tourists visit Phuket for a vacation, it’s only natural that the dental tourism industry has spread there as well. You’ll find the highest concentration of dentists in Phuket City and Patong Beach. Phuket is a relatively small island with an area of 210 square miles so you won’t have to travel too far wherever you’re staying.
Check plenty of Phuket dentist reviews as you search for the best dentist to meet your needs. The majority of their business comes from tourists so they know the importance of maintaining international standards in their clinics. You’ll inevitably come across some horror stories too, but try not to be put off by just one person’s bad experience.
A dental holiday in 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 root canals, dental implants or preparation for crowns or veneers. You should therefore choose accommodation where you’ll feel comfortable resting for a few days, especially if you’re having major dental work.
Your clinic can probably recommend nearby accommodation or even offer a discount on certain hotels.
Other locations
Although Bangkok and Phuket are the main hubs for dental tourism in Thailand, plenty of other tourist hotspots have dental clinics which cater to overseas patients.
You might decide to get away from it all in the mountain cities of Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai in the north or head to the coastal resort of Pattaya just south of Bangkok. Even on smaller islands like Koh Samui and Koh Lanta, you’ll find dental clinics operating to international standards.
If you want to get major work like dental implants in Thailand, it’s probably wise to prioritise a good dentist over a good beach. Remote desert islands may have dentists quite capable of performing routine dental work, but they are unlikely to be so experienced with implants.
Thailand dental prices
Of course, you want to know what dental work in Thailand costs before making a decision.
The table below shows approximate Thailand dental costs for some of the most common treatments. The cost of dental implants in Thailand offer the greatest potential savings, especially for full mouth or All-on-4 implants, so this is one of the most common treatments for foreign patients. Patients also save a lot on crown and veneer costs, especially where they need more than one.
Treatment | Approximate cost |
Single tooth implant | £600 - £1,500 |
All-on-4 implants | £6,500 - £12,000 |
Porcelain veneer | £180 - £300 |
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crown | £160 - £370 |
Laser teeth whitening | £140 - £250 |
Root canal | £100 - £330 |
Full acrylic denture | £250 - £500 |
Although these prices may be enough to convince you, remember to consider the cost of your travel, accommodation, time off work, etc. when deciding if it’s worth getting dental work in Thailand. Also don’t just choose the cheapest clinic you find; make sure it has a good reputation and is the best fit for your dental needs.
Considerations when getting dental implants in Thailand
There is plenty of research you’ll need to do before committing to dental treatment abroad – whether in Thailand or any other destination. Consider things like:
- What qualifications does the dentist have? Is he/she a specialist 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 (see below), what extra benefits are included?
- Will your clinic provide transport to and from the airport and/or your hotel?
Booking a dental vacation package
With Thailand being a popular tourist destination in itself, many companies offer packages that include a vacation alongside your dental work.
If you’re not used to travelling or are nervous about the idea of getting major work like dental implants in Thailand, having someone else arrange everything for you can be well worth any extra you have to pay for the convenience. On the other hand, you won’t have as much flexibility compared to organising and booking your trip yourself.
Booking through an agency might also give you greater peace of mind in case you experience complications, as you’ll have someone to offer support and advice. Don’t assume this is the case though; ask the company about their role and check reviews from past customers.
Thailand dentist reviews
Wherever you get your dental work, you’ll want to research your choice carefully. There are plenty of forums and independent blogs with people’s reviews of dental work in Thailand. Expat sites – and word-of-mouth recommendations if you’re already there – are also a valuable source of information.
To get started though, take a look at our article featuring reviews of Thailand dentists in Bangkok and other locations. We have also included a couple of examples here for you.
“It was a wonderful experience”
Sandie and her husband travelled from Australia to Thailand for three dental crowns between them. They had been quoted A$5,250 for the work in Australia but ended up paying A$1,236 in Thailand – a saving of over A$4,000 which meant they could enjoy a holiday there “virtually for free”.
In her blog, Sandie describes how impressed she was with the professionalism and cleanliness of the dental clinic in Phuket they visited. The couple didn’t feel pressured into accepting their treatment plan but were given time to consider their decision. Having decided to go ahead, they were very happy with the way they were treated and plan to return next time they need dental work.
“We couldn’t afford to have it done in Australia, it would cost maybe 3 times the price”
Shannon and her mother decided to travel to Bangkok for dental treatment because it was much more affordable for them. If her mother had gotten the dental work she needed at home in Australia, she would have had to settle for removable dentures.
So, after getting a recommendation from a friend they decided that travelling to Thailand for treatment was the best option. Shannon explains that it was a bonus that they could travel, see more of Thailand and enjoy the culture at the same time. Both she and her mum were both blown away by how thorough, professional, and gentle they were.
As well as checking reviews of dentists in Thailand, also read up on the procedure(s) you’re having. This will help you know what to expect during your trip and will also prepare you for any decisions you have to make. Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist any questions you have about your treatment.
Alternative dental tourism destinations
If you decide not to get dental treatment in Thailand for whatever reason there are still plenty of other places offering low-cost dental care.
If you’re travelling from the UK for dental work, Hungary, Poland, Spain and Turkey are all renowned for their high-quality and low-cost dentistry. Dental tourists from the UK, Germany and Austria frequently head to nearby countries to find cheaper dental treatment.
Hungary and Poland offer the chance for a city break while you have your teeth tended to, but don’t expect to find any beaches nearby. If you head to Spain or Turkey, on the other hand, you’ll have big cities and smaller beach resort towns to choose from when selecting a dentist.
If you’re looking for a more exotic dental holiday, Mexico and Costa Rica both have excellent reputations for dental care. Mexico is known for its many dental towns along the border offering almost nothing but dentistry, at much lower prices than in the US. However, you can also travel to places like Cancun, Progreso and Puerto Vallarta if you want to turn your trip into a vacation.
In Costa Rica, you can head to Guanacaste Province for a true dental vacation by the ocean. Alternatively, visit a dentist in the capital city of San Jose where prices may be lower. You might also consider visiting a dentist in the Philippines, which is geographically close to Thailand and has just as much to offer in terms of culture, nature and beaches. India’s dental tourism industry is thriving, making it another country worth considering.
Summary
It’s possible to save hundreds or thousands of pounds by getting dental treatment such as dental implants in Thailand. The more work you need, the more you stand to save with Thailand dental costs.
However, you shouldn’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, but 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.
FAQS
How much are dental implants in Thailand?
In Thailand, the approximate cost of full mouth dental implants cost roughly between £6,500 and £12,000. And, the cost of a single implant is between £600 and £1,500.
Can you get dentures in Thailand?
Yes, you can get dentures in Thailand, and you will find that they are much cheaper than in the UK. Full mouth dentures will cost on average between £250 and £500 in Thailand.
TDC. Thai Dental Council. Consulted 14 September 2021.