Dental implants in the UK vs abroad: What to know before you go
In recent years, dental tourism has grown in popularity, with increasing numbers of people travelling abroad for a whole range of treatments, including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and Teeth in a Day (All on 4) full arch restorations.
Whilst the promise of lower costs can be attractive – commonly quoted as 40 -70% less than the UK – it’s important to understand the full picture when seeking complex dental care outside of the UK.
Popular overseas destinations
Findings from a 2024 survey, conducted by Community Research on behalf of the General Dental Council (GDC) and covered by The Independent, suggests that 1 in 20 UK adults (particularly 18 to 34 years olds) sought dental care abroad in the past year.
They are drawn overseas due to lower initial treatment costs, shorter waiting times and the opportunity to combine treatment with a holiday.
Common European destinations include Turkey, Poland, Hungary and Spain, whilst India and Thailand are popular with people travelling further afield.
Do your research
“While reputable clinics do exist abroad,” says Dr Michael Zybutz, lead surgeon and owner at David Neal Dental, “It’s really important to research carefully before you commit to treatment in an unfamiliar country – even more so if it’s a complex procedure.
Don’t assume that standards of dentistry and the regulations in place to protect you in the UK are necessarily the same abroad – whatever the glossy ads might say!”
Government and Tik Tok collaboration
In August 2025 a collaboration was announced between the UK government and Tik Tok, specifically targeting younger demographics who are heavily exposed to social media marketing that glamorises overseas surgery.
They partnered with medical influencers to create short-form videos highlighting the genuine risks of travelling overseas for procedures such as dental work, hair transplants, cosmetic treatments, and other “tweakments”
Guidance from the GDC
The advice to research well is backed by the General Dental Council who highlight some key considerations for anyone planning dental treatment abroad:
- The skill and experience of your surgeon
Whether in the UK or abroad, a regulated dentist may be technically qualified but still deliver inconsistent results, especially for complex treatments like All on 4 implants that require extensive planning and aftercare.
Careful research into the hands-on experience and long-term results of your dental surgeon and their restorative team is vital in finding a team that will safely deliver the clinical and aesthetic results you are expecting.
- Continuity of Care
Highly skilled, advanced treatments like Teeth in a Day (All on 4) require complex surgery.
Once treatment is complete, long-term check-ups and maintenance care are advisable.
If something goes wrong months or years later, returning to the original overseas provider may not be feasible, both logistically and financially.
- Implants and materials used
The quality of the materials used in dental implant surgery can affect both the short and long-term success of your dental implant treatment. Dentists abroad may use lower quality or unfamiliar brands.
If you need repairs or replacement in the future, UK dentists may not be able – or willing – to help.
“At David Neal Dental we always use the highest quality implant systems with proven reliability and long-lasting results. It’s safer for our patients and increases the likelihood of long-term success”, says Michael.
- Risk of complications
Infection, implant failure, or nerve damage resulting from implant surgery are thankfully rare, but all surgery carries risk. Requiring immediate attention from a clinic overseas can be stressful, costly and take time.
In contrast, UK centres can offer more immediate support, as well as routine check-ups to prevent and address issues early.
- Regulations
In the UK, all dentists must be registered with the GDC, and are obliged to adhere to set professional standards.
There is no guarantee that overseas dentists are regulated to the same standards or with such rigour. In short, when things go wrong, patients may not have the same levels of consumer protection or access to independent complaint procedures that we enjoy in the UK.
True cost versus perceived savings
While the upfront cost abroad may appear lower, hidden costs like travel, accommodation, return visits, or fixing complications in the UK can quickly outweigh the savings – especially for full-arch solutions like All on 4.
Find a clinic you trust
“Everyone’s requirements and circumstances are different – the important thing is to find a dental team that puts your safety first and also give you the results you want – first time,” says Dr Zybutz.
“Our patients at David Neal Dental choose us for peace of mind as we specialise in advanced implant dentistry, offering high-precision, long-term solutions like Teeth in a Day.
All our patients are treated by UK registered implant surgeons in state-of-the-art clinical environments.
Whatever decision you make, be sure to consider all the elements that make up successful dental treatment – including quality aftercare – not just cost.”