Are you thinking of getting cosmetic dentistry like dental implants in Thailand? The rising cost of dental care in many countries is driving Thailand dental tourism as people seek more affordable dental work abroad.
If you're facing an unaffordable quote for dental treatment in your home country, Thailand dental tourism could be a much cheaper alternative with savings of 50% or more.
In this guide, you can read about:
- What makes Thailand one of the best places for dental tourism
- Bangkok, Phuket, and other places to get dental work in Thailand
- Dental implant prices in Thailand
- Dental tourism Thailand reviews
- Things to consider before you book a dental vacation
If the low Thailand dental implant costs are appealing to you, you can start planning your trip with the help of the Medical Tourism Corporation (MTC). They have years of experience helping patients in the US find reputable clinics abroad. MTC puts a strong focus on customer service, and you can expect to receive a callback promptly after filling in your details in the form below for a free quote.
We hope this information helps you decide whether Thailand dental tourism is right for you.
In This Article
Why is dental tourism popular in Thailand?
There are several factors, including low prices and high quality, that have contributed to Thailand's 20+ years as a major hub for dental tourism and the growing demand for dental implants in Thailand.
Thailand dental prices
The main reason anyone considers traveling abroad for medical care is to save money. Dental implants in Thailand costs considerably less than in the US, the UK, and Australasia, with possible savings of around 50-70%.
Although Thailand dental clinics might not be the cheapest in the world, 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. Further down this article, you can find more detailed information about Thailand dental prices for procedures, including:
- Dental implants
- All-on-4 (full mouth implants)
- Veneers
- Crowns
- Teeth whitening
- Root canals
A Thailand dental vacation
Because of its location, Thailand dental tourism 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 vacation. Citizens from 40 different countries, including those just mentioned, can visit Thailand for a short stay without a pre-arranged visa. Thailand's dental cost is about 60% less compared to that of the West.
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 on to their dental trip – or vice versa – and still save money compared to the cost of the dental work alone back home.
With dentists in most major cities and tourist hotspots catering to the Thailand 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. 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 regard 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 in Thailand dentistry.
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.
Popular locations for dental work in Thailand
Bangkok
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 traveling for days when you're in the mood for sightseeing, not still under anesthetic 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.
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.
Visiting a dentist 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 dental 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 that 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.
Thailand dental prices
The table below shows approximate Thailand dental costs for some of the most common treatments. Dental implant costs in Thailand offer the greatest 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 (USD) |
Single tooth implant | $800 - $2,000 |
All-on-4 implants | $8,000 - $16,000 |
Porcelain veneer | $250 - $400 |
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crown | $220 - $500 |
Laser teeth whitening | $180 - $340 |
Root canal | $140 - $450 |
Full acrylic denture | $350 - $700 |
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 your teeth done abroad. 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?
- What are the types of dental implants and materials used
- How do patients follow up with their treating dental provider if they have questions?
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 traveling, 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 booking everything 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 its role and check reviews from past customers.
Reviews of Thai dental work
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 valuable sources of information.
To get started, take a look at our article featuring reviews of dentists in Thailand. We have also included a couple of examples here for you.
Wayne shared that he was first hesitant about getting dental work done overseas, he did a lot of research before deciding to go to the dentist in Thailand. In his review, he shares the quality of care, the affordability of treatment, and the overall experience of getting dental work done in Thailand.
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.
Below is another video that focuses on getting dental implants in Thailand:
Alternative dental tourism destinations
If you decide not to get dental work in Thailand for whatever reason, there are still plenty of other places offering low-cost dental care.
If you're traveling from the US for dental work, Mexico and Costa Rica are the closest destinations, and both have an excellent reputation for dental care.
Getting dental implants in Mexico is popular because 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 San Jose where prices may be lower. Read more about Costa Rica dental care here.
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. You may also want to consider dental work like dental implants in India, which is another destination to consider if you don't mind a longer flight time.
In Europe, meanwhile, 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 offers the chance for a city break while you have your teeth tended to, but don't expect to find any beaches nearby. Dental implants in Poland are affordable and high-quality if you're looking for another European option. If you head to Spain for dentistry or Turkey, you'll have big cities and smaller beach resort towns to choose from when selecting a dentist.
Wherever you decide to go for your dental treatment, make planning your trip easier with the help of MTC. Fill in your details below and get started now with a free quote.
FAQS
Is it worth it to travel to Thailand for dental work?
Due to its affordable prices and superior dental care, Thailand is a great choice for your dental vacation. Thailand offers dental care at prices that are generally lower than those in many other nations, even with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.
Why is dental tourism popular in Thailand?
There are several factors, including low prices and high quality, that have contributed to Thailand's 20+ years as a major hub for dental tourism and the growing demand for dental implants in Thailand.
Do dentists in Thailand speak English?
Many dentists and staff in popular tourist areas and larger cities speak English. You don't have to worry about the language barrier, but it's advisable to confirm this before scheduling any treatment.
What types of dental procedures can I get in Thailand?
Thailand offers a wide range of dental services, from routine cleanings and fillings to more complex procedures like dental implants, veneers, and cosmetic dentistry.
How can I find a reliable dentist in Thailand?
You can find a reliable dentist in Thailand through online reviews, ask for recommendations from other expats or tourists, and check the credentials of the dentists and the clinic. Accreditation from international bodies can also help.