Step by Step Plan to Choose an Overseas Dentist

1. Determine the location and type of dentist you want.
2. Check the website of the clinic. This site should include a statement of the dentist’s training and certifications. In some countries, such as India, there are dentists who do not have any qualifications or registration. These, of course, should be avoided.
3. Communicate with the dentist to be sure that you will feel comfortable. This can be done by telephone or email, or even by writing — most of them will be happy to send you a letter to answer your questions and brochures that describe their facility. A good clinic might ask you for xrays or pictures of your teeth to help determine what is best for you and give a reliable estimate of the time and cost of the work.
4. Ask for the names and numbers or email addresses of others they have treated. Patients often don’t mind giving out this information and commenting on their experiences. If you feel unsure about going, you can then call some of them to get their opinions.
5. If you prefer to use a referral service, make sure that you know who the dentist will be. If possible, try to talk to the dentist. If the service refuses to give you this information, find another service.





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″This young lady went to a clinic in Eastern Europe to have the extensive orthodontic surgery to change the position of her teeth.
She was so delighted with her new smile that she posted her before–and-after pictures on the Internet — and gave the author permission to copy them.

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6. DO NOT pay anything up front, either to the dentist or to the service.
7. When you arrive at the dental clinic, look around and chat with people. Is it a clean, neat, and wellrun clinic? If you feel uncomfortable, leave. Bad dental work is a lot worse than a bad haircut!
8. Before treatment begins, talk to the dentist directly to describe what you want and perhaps have an initial examination. Then discuss fees with the dentist or a staff person, and make sure that there is a good understanding of what the final fee will be. At this point, there may be a partial upfront payment. However, you should not pay the entire agreedupon amount until the treatment is complete and to your satisfaction.
9. Confirm that confidentiality will be maintained in terms of your treatment records and health status disclosures.
10. Confirm that your approval must be obtained before any pictures are taken.
11. Be cautious of dentists who recommend extensive or elaborate treatment beyond that which you initially sought.
12. Be cautious of dentists who sell medicines or supplements.
13. Be cautious of dentists who recommend replacement of previous fillings that are still OK.
14. Make sure you get a copy of your dental record when treatment is complete.