Over the last 10 years, we’ve seen a real surge in patients choosing to travel abroad for dental treatment. Many drawn in by the promise of lower costs, shorter wait times, and the appeal of combining healthcare with a holiday. In a time where access to the NHS and dental care remains difficult, this for some feels like the only option available.

But behind the allure of affordability lies a far more complex picture. And one that brings concern not just for patients, but for the dentists who care for them once they return home.

The Price of Fixing a Bargain

According to reports by Which? It has been found that 18% of people travelling abroad for dental treatment have experienced some form of complications after returning home. Common issues include ill-fitting crowns and implants, infections, nerve damage and issues with aftercare. Shockingly, 40% of the follow-up care required is provided to patients on the NHS, placing added pressure on an already stretched system.

Claiming After Botched Dental Treatment Abroad

UK patients returning home with complications may not have clear routes to complain or may find it difficult to seek compensation, especially if there is no regulatory body or robust complaints process in the country where they received treatment. It’s important to mention as a firm we only accept cases of dental negligence where the treatment took place in England or Wales.

If you or someone you care for is thinking about seeking treatment abroad, we encourage you to do so with your eyes wide open. The NHS has provided a helpful checklist for “Treatment abroad”.

Here are just a few of the most important things to consider:

Is the treatment is licensed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
is the treatment is approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

What happens if something goes wrong? Who do I contact?

And just as importantly remember to talk to your own UK dentist before you leave the country. They can offer advice based on your personal dental history, and help you make an informed and safe decision. We have our own guide on the “The Dangers of Dental Tourism”.

Turning to a Trusted Law Firm in Your Time of Need

We understand the difficult decisions patients face especially in the current climate, and we also understand the challenges UK dentists face when they’re left to manage the fallout. If you’re a patient seeking advice on your rights, our team is here to provide clear, compassionate legal guidance.

Dental Law are your trusted dental claim partner and will be on hand to help you through the entire claims process from initial enquiry to settlement. Our previous client reviews shine light not only on this but also on the professionalism of the service The Dental Law Partnership offer.

“A few years ago, I strongly suspected that I was the subject of dental negligence, so I contacted The Dental Law Partnership for legal advice. The Dental Law Partnership agreed that I had a case, and Justine Jones was appointed as my solicitor. Justine carefully guided me through every stage of this complex legal case and made everything straightforward and easy for me.
The whole process took a few years, but it was worth the wait as I’ve recently found out that this dentist accepts being negligent. I’ve now agreed to settle out of court with this negligent dentist for a 5-figure sum. I highly recommend The Dental Law Partnership and Justine Jones – thank you very much!”

“Excellent all the way, very helpful staff professional and talked me through every detail Tyla was brilliant. would very much recommend Dental Law Firm to anyone in need.”

“I am pleased that my case has been accepted so quickly. Faye was so sympathetic and polite when I explained everything to her. After suffering so long it’s great that I have someone who will listen and help me. Thank you all so much”

Dental Tourism: When things go wrong?

See if you have a case for dental negligence: