
A reader recently reached out with a concern that resonates with many: the soaring costs of dental care, especially for those in the golden years. “How do we manage these expenses?” they wondered. “Is it practical to have dual dental policies, or should we consider dental care abroad? What options are there for middle-income retirees?”
Dental Dilemmas: A National Concern
Dental care costs can be a heavy burden, particularly for those on a fixed income. It’s a heartbreaking choice when one has to decide between dental health and other essentials like groceries. This issue isn’t isolated; it’s a national concern that’s gaining attention as more baby boomers enter retirement and our population enjoys longer lifespans. A significant number of adults over 65 find themselves without dental insurance, a challenge that healthcare workers, dentists, and senior advocates acknowledge.
Disclaimer: Please note that I’m not qualified to provide medical advice, nor can I endorse traveling abroad for dental procedures. It’s a personal choice and one that requires careful consideration. While medical tourism isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, it’s an option that’s gaining traction and isn’t as far-fetched as it might seem.
Affordable Alternatives for Dental Care
Despite the hurdles, there are ways to maintain dental health without emptying your wallet:
Dental Schools: A Win-Win

Consider checking out local dental schools. For example, in my community, the Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry, a major provider in the Dallas area, welcomes around 100,000 visits a year. Here, dental students, supervised by licensed professionals, offer services at a fraction (30-40%) of the typical costs you’d encounter at a private clinic.
Venturing Abroad for Dental Care

Saving up to 75% on dental care isn’t a myth—it’s a reality in countries like Mexico, Thailand, and Costa Rica. But it begs the question: does it make sense to travel for dental work? It boils down to the nature of the procedure. For basic dental needs, the costs of travel might outweigh the savings. However, for more complex and expensive procedures, such as multiple implants or full mouth reconstructions, the financial benefits can be substantial.
Assessing the Safety of Foreign Dental Practices
It’s natural to have concerns about the quality of dental care abroad. Yet, in popular destinations like Costa Rica, Mexico, Hungary, and Thailand, many dentists have trained at top institutions in the US, UK, or Australia and are members of esteemed organizations like the American Dental Association. It’s prudent to research specific dentists, check their credentials, and read reviews from previous patients.
In conclusion, navigating dental care costs in retirement can be challenging, but there are pathways to make it more manageable. Whether it’s leveraging local dental schools or considering care abroad, options exist to maintain dental health without compromising financial stability.