Are you thinking about getting dental implants? Many people consider travelling abroad for affordable dental treatments, with Manila, Philippines, being a popular destination. However, while dental implants in Manila may seem cost-effective at first glance, there are important factors to consider. This blog will explore the dental implant prices in Manila compared to Australia and explain why investing in dental implants closer to home could save you more than expected.

Dental Implants Cost in Manila vs. Australia

In Manila, the starting price for a single dental implant is around 1,500 AUD. This may cover the implant itself, but additional expenses such as the dental crown, bone grafting, or follow-up visits can quickly add up. By comparison, the starting price for dental implants in Australia is around 3,000 AUD. Though higher, this price often includes comprehensive care and fewer hidden fees, providing greater value in the long run.

What is Dental Tourism?

Dental tourism refers to travelling to another country to receive dental care, often at lower prices than you would pay locally. The appeal lies in the promise of affordable dental treatments that can save you money while also allowing you to explore a new destination. For many, combining dental procedures with a holiday sounds ideal. However, there are risks to consider, such as variations in quality standards, follow-up care challenges, and potential complications that can arise once you return home. While the lower cost of dental implants in Manila may tempt some, weighing these factors carefully before booking that flight is crucial.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants can vary widely depending on several factors. Here’s what can influence the overall price:

Number of Implants Required

If you need multiple implants, the total cost will naturally be higher. However, some dental clinics offer discounts for multiple implants, potentially lowering the average price per implant.

Preparatory Procedures

Patients with insufficient jawbone density may need bone grafting before placing the implant. Procedures like bone grafting and sinus lifts add to the overall cost in Manila or Australia.

Type of Implant and Materials Used

The price can be influenced by the quality of the titanium implant post and the dental crown. Higher-quality materials may have a more expensive initial cost, but they often ensure longer-lasting results.

Experience of the Dentist

The expertise of the dental professional carrying out the procedure can also impact the cost. Experienced dentists may charge more, but their skills can lead to smoother surgery and better outcomes.

Clinic Location and Standards of Care

Clinics in highly regulated environments like Australia may charge more, but they also adhere to stricter safety standards and offer services done with the latest technology. Dental clinics in Manila may offer more affordable dental implants, but the quality of care can vary widely.

Why Dental Implants in Australia May Be a Better Investment

Despite the higher starting price for dental implants in Australia, there are appealing reasons to choose a local dental clinic over travelling to Manila. Here are several additional advantages of opting for dental implants in Australia:

Comprehensive Treatment Planning

Australian dental clinics focus on precise treatment planning to ensure a customised approach that meets your specific dental needs. Dentists in Australia use advanced diagnostic tools to craft a detailed plan, minimising the risk of complications. The comprehensive planning includes evaluating the condition of your jawbone, assessing for gum disease, and identifying any other oral health issues that may affect the success of the implant.

High-Quality Care and Expertise

The dental industry in Australia is well-regulated, ensuring that dental professionals undergo rigorous training. This means you can trust that your dentist has the necessary qualifications to perform the procedure safely and effectively. The high standards of education and continuous professional development requirements ensure that dentists stay updated on the latest techniques and technologies in implant dentistry.

No Hidden Costs

Although the upfront cost may be higher in Australia, it often covers comprehensive care, including local anaesthesia, diagnostic exams, implant placement, and follow-up visits. This transparency in pricing reduces the likelihood of unexpected costs, unlike in Manila, where the initial quote may not include additional procedures or materials, such as bone grafting or high-quality dental crowns.

Ease of Follow-Up Care

Dentist follow-up visits are essential to track the healing progress and address any potential complications early. If you choose to get dental implants in Australia, you’ll you’ll have easy access to your dentist for any necessary follow-up appointments. This is especially important if complications arise, as addressing issues promptly can prevent further problems.

Stringent Sterilisation and Safety Protocols

Australian dental clinics adhere to strict sterilisation and infection control protocols for any dental procedure, ensuring that all instruments and surgical environments meet high standards. This reduces the likelihood of post-surgical infections and complications, providing you with peace of mind. In contrast, varying standards in Manila may not always meet the same level of safety.

Use of Advanced Technology and High-Quality Materials

Many Australian dental clinics use the latest technology to aid in treatment planning and implant placement. Additionally, high-quality materials like certified titanium implants and durable dental crowns ensure long-lasting results. These technological and material advantages help increase the success rate of dental implants.

Legal Protection and Recourse

In Australia, dental practitioners are governed by strict regulations and codes of conduct. If any issues arise with your dental implant treatment, there are well-established legal avenues for recourse. You can lodge a complaint with professional bodies like the Dental Board of Australia, ensuring that your concerns are addressed. In contrast, seeking legal recourse in Manila can be challenging due to differing regulatory frameworks.

Comprehensive Aftercare Programs

Australian clinics often provide comprehensive aftercare programs, including detailed post-surgical instructions, follow-up visits, and ongoing support. Having a dedicated team to guide you through the recovery process ensures that your healing progresses smoothly. This type of aftercare can be difficult to access if you receive dental implants abroad.

Shorter Recovery Times Due to Advanced Techniques

Using state-of-the-art techniques and materials, such as computer-guided implant placement, Australian dentists can often reduce the recovery time associated with implant surgery. Minimally invasive procedures help minimise tissue damage and swelling, leading to quicker healing and fewer post-operative complications.

Proximity to Your Dentist for Emergencies

In case of an emergency or any unexpected dental issues, it’s much easier to reach your local Australian dentist than to return to Manila. Having your dentist nearby ensures that any urgent dental needs are promptly addressed, avoiding potential risks associated with delayed care.

Higher Success Rates for Dental Implants

Due to the combination of advanced technology, high-quality materials, and well-trained professionals, dental implants in Australia have a high success rate. Australian dentists can perform precise treatment planning and execution, lowering the risk of implant failure and long-term complications.

The True Cost of Dental Implants in Manila

Opting for affordable dental implants in Manila may seem appealing, but the lower upfront costs can come with hidden expenses and potential risks that may not be immediately obvious. Here are some additional factors to consider:

Additional Procedures

Implant placement might not be a straightforward process for everyone. Some patients require bone grafting, sinus lifts, or other preparatory procedures to ensure that there is sufficient jawbone density to support the implant. These additional treatments can significantly increase the total cost. In Manila, these extra steps may not always be included in the initial quote, leading to unexpected expenses.

Travel and Accommodation Costs

If you’re travelling to Manila for dental implants, don’t forget to factor in the cost of flights, accommodation, and transportation. These travel expenses can significantly add to the overall cost of your dental treatment. Plus, if multiple follow-up visits are needed, the travel costs can multiply.

Quality of Care and Safety Standards

While many dental clinics in Manila offer affordable dental treatments, not all adhere to the same safety and quality standards as those in Australia. Lower costs can sometimes mean shortcuts in care, which may increase the risk of complications during or after the procedure. There may also be a lack of regulatory oversight in some clinics, which can compromise the quality of materials used, such as the titanium implant post.

Long-Term Maintenance and Corrective Treatments

If issues arise after you return to Australia, the cost of corrective treatments can be substantial. Complications like implant failure, infection, or damage to surrounding tissues may require additional dental procedures, potentially negating any cost savings you initially achieved through dental tourism.

Language Barriers

Although many dental professionals in Manila speak English, language barriers can still affect the quality of communication and care. Misunderstandings about treatment plans, procedural details, or aftercare instructions could increase the risk of complications. Clear communication with your dentist is crucial for a successful outcome.

Limited Access to Follow-Up Care

Dental implants require follow-up visits to monitor the healing process and make necessary adjustments. When undergoing dental implant procedures abroad, especially in a country like the Philippines, you may face difficulties in accessing timely follow-up care if you return to Australia. This could result in delayed identification and treatment of complications, potentially worsening the problem.

Variability in Training and Expertise

The qualifications and experience of dental professionals can vary widely across clinics. While some dental clinics in Manila have highly trained professionals, others may lack the same level of expertise. Inadequate training in complex procedures like implant placement can increase the risk of surgical errors or poor outcomes.

Limited Legal Recourse

If something goes wrong during your dental implant procedure, you may have limited legal recourse for compensation in Manila. Medical and dental malpractice laws differ across countries, and pursuing legal action in a foreign country can be challenging and costly. In contrast, the regulations in Australia offer more avenues for patient protection and recourse in case of complications.

Infection Risks

Due to varying sterilisation protocols, there is a higher risk of infection or cross-contamination during dental procedures in some overseas clinics. Poor sterilisation can lead to serious complications such as implant failure, gum infections, or even systemic health issues. Australian clinics generally adhere to stringent sterilisation standards, reducing the likelihood of such risks.

Lack of Emergency Facilities

In some cases, complications may arise during or immediately after the implant procedure that requires emergency intervention. Many dental clinics in Manila may not be equipped to handle complex medical emergencies, whereas Australian clinics are more likely to have advanced emergency facilities and protocols in place.

Unregulated Use of Low-Quality Materials

In an effort to reduce costs, some overseas clinics may use lower-quality materials for implants, such as substandard titanium or non-certified dental crowns. These materials may not offer the same durability and compatibility with your body as those used in Australian clinics, potentially resulting in a higher risk of implant failure.

Inconsistent Aftercare Instructions

Receiving dental care in a different country can lead to inconsistencies in aftercare instructions. While some overseas dentists may not provide as comprehensive aftercare guidelines as their Australian counterparts, a lack of clear instructions can compromise your healing process and increase the risk of complications.

What is the Dental Implant Procedure Like?

The dental implant procedure includes multiple stages to guarantee the implant integrates successfully with your jawbone. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation: Your dentist will examine your oral health and discuss any preparatory procedures you may need, such as bone grafting. Treatment planning will be thorough to ensure a successful outcome.

Implant Placement: During the surgery, the titanium implant post is inserted into the jawbone. This step usually requires local anaesthesia, and it takes time for the implant to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration.

Healing Period: Over the next few months, the jawbone integrates with the implant. Dentist evaluations are crucial to ensure that healing is progressing as expected.

Attaching the Dental Crown: Once osseointegration is complete, a dental crown is placed on top of the implant, regaining the look and function of your natural teeth.

Why Choose Dental Implants Over Other Options?

There are many reasons to choose dental implants for tooth replacement, including:

Improved Oral Health
Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
Long-Term Results
With good care, dental implants can endure a lifetime, providing a lasting and permanent solution to tooth loss.
Enhanced Comfort and Stability
Because dental implants act like natural teeth, they offer greater stability and comfort than dentures or bridges.

Financial Options for Dental Implants in Australia: Making High-Quality Care Accessible

While dental implants offer significant benefits for long-term oral health, their cost can be a concern for some individuals. Fortunately, various financial options are available in Australia to help make dental implant treatments more affordable. Here, we’ll explore some of the financing solutions, including SuperCare, a program that allows eligible individuals to access their superannuation funds for dental treatments.

SuperCare: Using Your Superannuation for Dental Implants

SuperCare is an Australian service that assists patients in accessing their superannuation to cover the costs of essential dental procedures, including dental implants. It allows you to fund treatments through the Early Release of Superannuation (ERS) program, managed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This option is available for both individuals and family members, making it a flexible solution for those who need immediate dental care.

Payment Plans:

Many dental clinics provide payment plans that allow you to distribute the cost of dental implant procedures over several months or years. These plans often come with little to no interest, making them a budget-friendly option for those who prefer to pay in instalments. Payment plans can cover the entire treatment, including consultation fees, implant placement, bone grafting, and dental crowns.

Health Insurance:

While most health insurance policies in Australia don’t fully cover dental implants, some private health funds provide partial coverage for certain aspects of the procedure, such as hospital-related expenses for oral surgery or dental crowns. It’s advisable to check with your insurer to understand what benefits are available and how they can be applied to your treatment.

Dental Loans:

There are financial institutions in Australia that offer loans specifically designed for medical and dental treatments. Dental loans typically offer flexible repayment options and can cover the full cost of the procedure. However, it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions, such as interest rates and repayment schedules, before committing to a loan.

Final Thoughts: Dental Implants Price Manila vs. Australia – Which is Right for You?

Although the starting price for dental implants in Manila is lower, the hidden costs and risks associated with dental tourism make Australia a better choice. When you invest in dental implants locally, you’re not only paying for the procedure but also for peace of mind, quality care, and convenient follow-up services.

Before deciding, Contact Good Choice Dental at (02) 8203 8760 to explore your options and get a comprehensive treatment plan. It’s an investment in your oral health and quality of life, and the benefits far outweigh the initial cost.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

References:

Flores, G. (2006). Language differences as a barrier to quality and safety in health care: The Joint Commission perspective. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 21(11), 1113–1115. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2078554/

SuperCare. (n.d.). SuperCare – Dental & Allied Health Services Payment Solutions. https://www.mysupercare.com.au/

Colgate. (n.d.). Dental tourism: 5 risks of traveling for a dental procedure. Colgate Oral Care Center. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-visits/dental-tourism-5-risks-of-traveling-for-a-dental-procedure

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Dental implants. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10903-dental-implants

Dorfman, D. (2023). Facial Bone Anatomy overview. Medscape. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/835401-overview?form=fpf

American Dental Association. (n.d.). Infection control and sterilization. ADA. https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/infection-control-and-sterilization

Hidden Facts About Dental Implants Price: Manila vs Australia—Are They Worth the Savings?