Mexican Smiles for Sale

Fix Your Smile during Medical Vacation

“Smile and the world smiles with you.”  That’s not the case for everyone.  Some people’s smiles draw jeers, sneers, and rude remarks because of chips, cracks, and unsightly discoloration.  Still others may be more concerned with function than appearance.  My wife, for example grinds her teeth in her sleep (a condition known as "bruxism").  She’s continually wearing away the chewing surface of her teeth, which can affect her digestion.  A mouth guard helps stem the wear during her sleep, but may not be as functional for people who grind their teeth during the day.  Dental veneers help people in her situation as well as those seeking cosmetic dental changes.

US May Be Lowering the Cost Of Dental Veneers

Although the US healthcare system has come under fire in the past decade, help may be on the way, but not necessarily from government regulations.  An Idaho dental and medical cooperative began catering to local patients who don’t have health insurance.  Healthcare Savings Network saved one woman almost $3,000 off the cost of her dental veneers.  In Nampa, ID, where HCSN is based, around 50% of the residents have had to forgo dental treatment for almost a decade.  Studies have shown that poor dental health can lead to other medical problems—heart disease, colon cancer, and diabetes to name a few—and could ultimately result in death.  While Nampa’s population is around 80,000, compared to the 47 million nationwide without health insurance (and 120 million without dental insurance), HCSN’s practices could become an answer to lowering costs for Americans who can’t afford dental “luxuries” like fillings, caps, or veneers.

Dangers of Dental Tourism 

With almost any medical procedure, the dangers of complications are ever-present; dental tourism is no exception.  To mitigate risks, many hospitals included in medical or dental vacation packages are accredited by international health care standards and guidelines.  According to Herb Stephens, chief executive officer for Health Travel Guides, “We’re well beyond the point of asking, is this a safe, quality option?”  His point:  medical and dental tourism to countries like Mexico and India is already a booming multi-billion dollar international industry that’s been tried and deemed wildly successful.  With any medical procedure, patients should do their research and determine for themselves whether the doctor, facility, or procedure is right for them.

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