Are UK consultations worthwhile when considering dental treatment abroad?
PROS
- You can get an idea of the work needed before you travel
CONS
- Normally consultations are arranged by Agencies
- Going direct to the clinic rather than an agency will be cheaper
- Might not meet the dentist who will do your work
- Will not be able to look over the clinic and make an informed decision about the clinic
- Will not meet the clinic staff
- The treatment plan you are given in the UK might have to be changed once you get to the clinic – read the small print at the back of the treatment plan
- Normally have to pay for the consultation in the UK
ON BALANCE
- Sounds a good idea in theory but the practice? No
This is a great piece of information for those considering dental treatment abroad. Consultations in the UK are basically a “sales” tactic, Bums on seats, give them a treatment plan then hit them with the hard sell!
A couple of the top dental clinics abroad (Budapest) don’t offer this service and with good reason.
A couple of points to add the the “CONS” list…
In order to conduct an accurate assessment of a patient’s needs it is vital to have access to diagnostic tools such as OPG x-rays, digital x-rays and CAT scans. All of the state-of-the-art equipment necessary for this is not normally present at so called UK consultations so how can an accurate treatment plan be proposed.
Many people who are looking into dental treatment abroad require large restorarative work. In such circumstances a thorough consulataion will often include an Implantologist, a restorative dentist and a dental technician to ensure the best clinical, functional and aesthetic result is achieved. Not at a so called “UK” consultation.
First step to successfull restorative treatment is a thorough examination and a well thought out treatment plan involving all those who will be carrying out the work.