Dr Arnis Lidums discusses the importance of long term value, follow up care and informed treatment decisions as Australians look overseas for dental treatment.
-- Australian dental practices are seeing the consequences of dental treatment undertaken overseas. CommBank's Dental Insights 2024 report found that 79% of practices surveyed had treated patients presenting with complications from overseas dental work in the previous year.
The most commonly reported issues were crowns and bridges (82%), followed by dental implants (75%) and cosmetic dentistry (40%).
The Australian Government’s Smartraveller lists dentistry among the most common procedures Australians travel overseas for, noting that many seek treatment abroad to save money.
Price is an important part of the decision, but it is not the only thing patients need to think about. Dental treatment can continue long after the initial procedure, with follow-up care and ongoing maintenance often forming part of the process.
The Australian Dental Association says limited treatment time and language differences may affect communication and informed consent. Follow-up care may be complicated by incomplete treatment records or products, materials and techniques that are incompatible with Australian systems or standards.
Insurance is another consideration. Smartraveller found that only one-third of survey respondents knew they might need additional cover for an overseas medical procedure. Basic travel insurance usually excludes medical tourism, including elective procedures and related complications.
These concerns are not new. A 2010 Australian Dental Journal case report documented five cases involving complications following dental treatment overseas, highlighting issues around regulation and accountability.
For patients, the real comparison goes beyond the price in Australia versus overseas. It is about the whole treatment journey, from planning and treatment to follow-up and long-term care.
In Australia, dentists must be registered and meet professional standards, while dental materials and devices are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Patients also have established avenues for follow-up care and recourse if problems arise.
“Cost is an important consideration for patients, but so is the long-term value of their treatment,” said Dr Arnis Lidums, Specialist Prosthodontist and founder of Lidums Dental.
“We take the time to understand each patient’s concerns, expectations and goals before recommending a personalised treatment approach designed to support predictable, long-term results.”
“We also offer payment plan options to help make treatment costs more manageable and give patients greater flexibility in how they pay for their treatment.”
Before booking dental treatment overseas, patients are encouraged to look beyond the initial quote and understand what is included across the full course of treatment. Speaking with an Australian dentist can help them compare their options and make an informed decision.
About Lidums Dental
For more than 40 years, Dr Anis Lidmus and his team have created one of the most advanced cosmetic and specialist dental centres in Australia. The Adelaide clinic brings together leading technology, specialist skills and a warm, supportive team to help patients feel confident in the care they receive. Treatments focus on restoring function, enhancing aesthetics and supporting the patient’s overall wellbeing.
Contact Info:
Name: Lydia Lidums
Email: Send Email
Organization: Lidums Dental
Address: 75 Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide SA 5000
Phone: +61.8 7223 2342
Website: https://www.cosmeticdentistadelaide.com.au/
Release ID: 89206899
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