The Hidden Dangers of Travelling Abroad for Dental Implants Without a CT Scan

Why Patients Consider Going Abroad

Many patients are tempted by low-cost dental implant offers abroad. Ads promise new teeth in just days, at a fraction of Irish prices. It can sound appealing — until you realise the risks.

The biggest red flag? Clinics that give you a quotation without a CT scan or proper consultation first.

Why a CT Scan Is Essential Before Implants or Travelling Abroad

A Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is a 3D X-ray that shows:

• ✅ Bone quality and density
• ✅ Position of nerves and sinuses
• ✅ Any infections or hidden dental problems
• ✅ The exact space available for implants

Without this scan, no dentist can safely plan or guarantee your implant treatment.

The Dangers of Flying Abroad Without a CT Scan

1. Unrealistic Quotations

If you accept a price abroad without a scan, you’re agreeing to guesswork. Once you arrive, clinics often tell you:

• You need bone grafts.
• You need more implants than quoted.
• You need extractions you weren’t told about.

Your “bargain” quickly becomes thousands more expensive.

2. Implant Failure

Without a CT scan, implants may be placed in areas with poor bone density. This leads to:

• Loose implants
• Failure within months
• Painful re-treatment

Failed implants often cost far more to fix back in Ireland than doing it properly the first time.

3. Risk of Nerve Damage

The lower jaw contains critical nerves. Placing an implant without knowing their exact location can cause:

• Permanent numbness
• Tingling in the lips or chin
• Chronic pain

These complications are difficult — sometimes impossible — to reverse.

4. Sinus Complications

In the upper jaw, implants risk entering the sinus cavity. A CT scan maps these areas. Without it, you could suffer:

• Chronic sinus infections
• Pain and pressure
• The need for corrective surgery

5. Hidden Oral Health Issues

Photos or basic X-rays abroad cannot reveal:

• Gum disease
• Infections
• Failed root canals
• Cracked teeth

Any of these can derail an implant plan — but you won’t know until you’re already abroad.

Real Costs vs “Advertised Costs” Abroad

Overseas clinics often advertise full mouth implants at low prices. But patients commonly report:

• Being quoted €4,000–€5,000 online.
• Being charged €9,000–€12,000 once “extra work” was added.
• Returning home with unfinished or failed treatment.

In contrast, Dental Implants Ireland:

• Provide a written quotation at your consultation.
• Give a final treatment plan after your CT scan review.
• Ensure you know the full, true cost before starting.

The Safe Path at Dental Implants Ireland

1. Consultation
   • A clinical examination to check your suitability.
   • A written quotation is provided at this stage.
2. CT Scan
   • A 3D scan shows bone density and anatomical structures.
3. Treatment Plan
   • After your scan is reviewed, a personalised treatment plan confirms the final approach and cost.

This process eliminates surprises — giving you predictable, safe results.

FAQs: CT Scans and Implants Abroad

Why don’t some overseas clinics insist on CT scans?

Because offering a “quick quote” is a sales tactic. It’s designed to get you on a plane — even if the plan changes (and costs rise) once you’re there.

Can’t a dentist tell from photos if I’m suitable?

No. Bone density, nerve position, and sinus health cannot be seen in photos or video calls.

What if I get a CT scan in Ireland first?

That’s the safest option. With a scan and treatment plan from a qualified Irish implant dentist, you’ll know your real requirements before deciding whether to travel.

Is it really worth the risk to go abroad without one?

In most cases, no. The risks of hidden costs, failed implants, and permanent damage far outweigh the initial savings.

A Patient Example

John, 58, booked implants abroad after being quoted €5,000 from a WhatsApp call.

On arrival, he was told he needed bone grafts and extra implants. His bill doubled to €11,000. Worse, two implants failed within months. Back in Ireland, correcting the damage cost him another €6,000.

Had John had a CT scan and treatment plan done before travelling, he would have known the true requirements — and avoided stress, cost, and pain.

Final Warning

Dental implants are not just cosmetic — they are serious surgical treatments. Skipping a CT scan is like asking a builder to construct a house without surveying the land.

If a clinic offers you implants abroad without first reviewing a CT scan: ⚠️ Walk away. It is unsafe.

Book a Proper Consultation at Dental Implants Ireland

If you’re considering implants — in Ireland or abroad — protect yourself by starting with a consultation and CT scan. At your consultation, you’ll receive a written quotation, and after your scan is reviewed by the implant dentist, a treatment plan will confirm your exact needs and costs.

📞 Call 01 557 7740 or visit www.dental-implants-ireland.com to book your consultation today.