Going abroad for dental treatment

Before you commit to travelling abroad for dental treatment, it’s important you are fully aware of what to expect and what risks are involved. You may know how to raise concerns about your dental treatment in the UK, but are you familiar with the process in a foreign country? 

All dental professionals must be registered with us to work in the UK, and we set the professional standards they must adhere to. We can’t guarantee another organisation like us exists in other countries, or even that the standards will be the same as they are here.  

Dental regulation is likely to vary according to country, so it’s a good idea to do some initial research. Does that country have a professional regulatory body? Is it compulsory for dental professionals to be registered with them?  

If there is a regulatory body, you may want to visit their website to find out about the standards they enforce, what qualifications dental professionals must have and who to contact if you have a complaint about your treatment. 

Overseas providers coming to the UK to promote their services 

There are a number of providers coming to the UK to promote their services and encourage patients to travel overseas to have their dental treatment. They may do this in several ways, for example by holding events in hotels or other venues.  

It is important that if you are considering attending one of these events that you have all the facts and understand the potential risks.   

To work legally and safely all dental professionals must be registered with the GDC, and only people who are registered with us can legally practise dentistry in the UK. It is possible that what takes place at these events may constitute the practice of dentistry – for example, assessments and advice. If people who are not registered dental professionals are practising dentistry in the UK, they are breaking the law.  

Any patient who receives illegal dental treatment is placing themselves at risk as they will not be protected by the rigorous regulatory system that we have in place in the UK. 

However, it is possible that some of the people involved in these events will be UK registered dental professionals, and we would always recommend that patients check this is the case before receiving any treatment or advice. If they are registered, and something goes wrong, then patients can bring that to our attention and we will be able to investigate and take appropriate action, if necessary.  

We maintain a list of everyone who is registered with the GDC and we would always recommend that patients check that their treatment or advice is being provided by someone who is legally allowed to practice dentistry in the UK.  

Initial consultation 

 Some overseas clinics will have a UK base offering initial consultations in this country before you travel abroad for treatment while others may offer free consultations if you’re prepared to travel. This is your chance to ask as many questions as possible so you can feel safe and confident in your decision.  

You should always be assessed by a qualified dentist before being given a treatment plan and cost estimate. As part of your initial consultation, the dentist carrying out your assessment should ask for your full medical history. They should also be interested in your general health, whether you have suffered from any serious illnesses in the past, if you suffer from any chronic medical condition, whether you smoke, and if you’ve had surgery or a general anaesthetic in the past. 

Consult your own dentist  

It’s always a good idea to speak to your own dentist before considering travelling abroad for your treatment, as they may be able to offer advice based on your dental history. They will also need to be aware of your plans in case of any later complications. 

Questions to ask