How to manage your dental health while living abroad

Before you leave: Your dental checklist

Before moving abroad, make sure to schedule a complete health checkup, including for your teeth. Visit your dentist for a full examination and a thorough cleaning.

Also, don't forget to collect and scan your dental records, including x-rays and treatment history. These will be handy if you need care overseas.

Another must: get expat health insurance that covers dental treatments. Dental care abroad can be very costly. So look for a policy that includes dental coverage and check the reimbursement limits. For reference, the average cost of dental treatment in the US is around USD 518, compared to USD 210 in Germany, according to a 2024 study.

If you are loyal to a particular brand of toothpaste, consider bringing a few tubes with you in case it’s hard to find locally. The same goes for brush heads if you use an electric toothbrush.

How to maintain a good oral health while living abroad

Prevention is better than cure

You’ve been told since childhood that it's important to brush your teeth regularly. Stick to brushing at least twice a day, ideally after meals. Add flossing to your daily routine, and pay attention to your diet. Added sugars, acidic foods, tobacco, and alcohol are your teeth's major enemies.

Finding a dentist abroad

Finding a trustworthy dentist in a foreign country can be a challenge. Start by tapping into expat communities and forums for recommendations. Word of mouth is often the best way to find reliable health professionals.

Before booking an appointment, compare dentists and read reviews. In some countries, there are platforms like Zocdoc (in the United States) that make booking easier.

Here’s what to check when choosing a dentist abroad:

• Clinic certifications and licenses;

• Dentist’s qualifications and experience;

• Hygiene and safety standards;

• Patient reviews and testimonials;

• Pricing: beware of ultra-low-cost clinics.

Be especially cautious if you're moving to a country where access to dental care is uneven or unreliable.

Handling a dental emergency abroad

Toothaches never come at the right time. If you’re hit with sudden pain, an infection, or a broken tooth, here’s what to do:

• Get yourself a small dental emergency kit with painkillers, gauze, and clove oil (a quick natural remedy).

• Contact your health insurer via their 24/7 assistance line.

• Find a local dentist following the tips above.

• If possible, learn a few key dental terms in the local language, like “cavity,” “anesthesia,” or “abscess”.

What to do when dental care is inaccessible or unaffordable?

Dental tourism

If dental care in your host country is out of reach financially, dental tourism may be an option. Countries like Hungary, Turkey, Mexico, and Thailand are known for offering quality dental services at more affordable prices.

But be cautious. Research clinics thoroughly before scheduling an appointment. While dental tourism can save you money, it also comes with risks, such as inconsistent care quality, limited post-treatment follow-up, and little legal recourse in case of problems.

Returning home for dental checkups

If you are able to return home every year, use the opportunity to book an appointment with your regular dentist. For non-emergency treatments, this is often the safest and most straightforward option. Just make sure your international health insurance covers dental procedures carried out in your home country.

Living in a country with limited or unreliable dental services

Expats in developing countries or areas with under-equipped health systems may face bigger challenges. In regions like sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Southeast Asia, or remote zones of Latin America, dental training and medical equipment may not meet Western standards. But that doesn’t mean you can’t stay healthy. It just requires a bit more preparation.

Plan regular checkups abroad

Schedule dental visits in a neighboring country or your home country where care is more reliable.

Scout out private clinics in advance

Even in less developed countries, you’ll often find well-equipped private practices using imported technology.

Prepare for emergencies

If you live in a remote area, have a plan to reach a larger city or cross a nearby border in case of urgent care. Consider keeping a supply of antibiotics and painkillers on hand. The best approach is always prevention. By maintaining excellent oral hygiene, you reduce the risk of needing urgent dental treatment.

Taking care of your teeth abroad can be complicated, but not impossible. The key is to plan ahead, stick to a good hygiene routine, do your research, and invest in quality international health insurance that covers dental care.

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