Frequently asked questions

Common questions about dental implants abroad, our process, and what to expect in Romania and Hungary.

Safety & quality

Is dental treatment abroad safe?: Our partner clinics in Romania and Hungary operate under EU regulations and use the same premium implant brands (Nobel Biocare, Straumann) as many UK clinics. They follow sterilisation, cross-infection and clinical standards equivalent to those in the UK. We only work with clinics we have vetted.
Do the clinics speak English?: Yes. Our partner clinics have English-speaking staff and dentists. We also act as your UK-based point of contact in English before, during and after your trip.
What's the difference between your clinics and "low-cost" ones?: Our clinics benefit from lower local costs (wages, rent) and pass those savings to you without cutting corners. "Low-cost" models often rely on aggressive cost-cutting that can affect quality. We choose partner clinics for quality first, with transparent pricing.
Where are the clinics and what are they like?: They're in city centres (e.g. Budapest, Bucharest), easy to reach and in safe areas. The clinics are modern, medium to large, and equipped with up-to-date technology — including 3D imaging (CBCT) where needed for implants. Accommodation is usually close by.
Are the dentists specialists?: Yes. Our partner clinics use a multi‑disciplinary approach: specialists for implants, prosthetics, endodontics, etc. Your treatment is carried out by a dentist qualified in the relevant area, under a clinical lead.
Where are crowns and bridges made?: Crowns and bridges are made locally in certified labs that work with the clinics. Materials meet EU norms (e.g. ISO 9001). The clinic can provide a prosthesis certificate. We do not use imported, uncertified prostheses.

Pricing & payment

Why is dental treatment cheaper abroad?: In Romania and Hungary, lower costs of living, wages and rents allow clinics to charge less while keeping similar quality and EU standards. Those savings are reflected in the price you pay, without cutting care.
When is it worth going abroad financially?: For bigger treatments (e.g. several implants, All-on-4/6, full arches), savings are usually largest — often from around three elements upwards. For one or two small procedures, travel and stay can absorb a lot of the gain. We'll outline the full cost in your 48h plan so you can compare.
What is included in the price?: It depends on the treatment. For All-on-4/6: typically the implants, abutments, fixed bridge and the planned clinic visits. For a single implant: the implant and crown. We spell out exactly what's included in your 48h plan and quote. If bone grafting or other extras are needed, we include them in the quote.
How do I pay and when?: Payment is to the clinic, usually by card or cash, in euros to avoid exchange issues. For surgery and implants, it's typically 100% on the first day of that phase. For prosthetics (crowns, bridges), often 50% at the start and 50% when the work is fitted. The exact schedule is in your plan.
Can I pay in instalments?: Payment is made to the clinic. Some clinics offer payment plans; we can include available options in your quote when we send your plan. We don't provide finance ourselves.

Process & how it works

How do I get my X-ray to you?: Use our Get a quote form. You can upload X-rays or photos (JPG, PNG or PDF, up to 10 files, 10 MB each). We'll prepare your plan from that and any details you provide.
What's the process from first contact to treatment?: You send your X-ray and details via our form. We create a custom 48h plan (procedures, timeline, costs, clinic). We present it by video or document. If you accept, you book your flights; we help with accommodation, transfers and appointments. You attend the clinic for the planned stays (e.g. ~5 days surgery, then a second visit for the prosthetic phase). The clinical consultation and treatment plan are done at the clinic.
What happens at the consultation?: At the clinic you meet the team and the dentist. They may do extra imaging (e.g. 3D scan) if needed. You receive a definitive treatment plan and, once you're happy, you sign it. Then the treatment goes ahead as agreed.
Should I see my UK dentist before or after?: It helps to have a recent X-ray from your UK dentist (or another source) to send us. After treatment, your UK dentist can help with routine check-ups and hygiene. For implant-specific issues or warranty, the clinic's follow-up and warranty terms apply.

Implants & treatments

What is an implant and how long does it last?: An implant is a titanium "root" placed in the jaw to replace a missing tooth. With good care, it can last decades; a typical average is around 20 years. Longevity depends on your hygiene and check-ups.
I'm nervous about implants — what can I expect?: Surgery is usually under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. If you're very anxious, the clinic can discuss options (e.g. sedation). Smoking can be a contra‑indication; the dentist will advise. We only work with clinics that take the time to explain and put you at ease.
What are the steps for getting implants?: Phase 1: the implant is placed in the jaw (surgery). Phase 2: a healing period so the bone bonds to the implant (osteo‑integration). Phase 3: the crown or bridge is fitted on the implant via an abutment. This usually means at least two trips. Bone grafting or a sinus lift may be needed first if there isn't enough bone.
When can I go back to work?: Most people can return to work within 2–3 days after implant surgery. If you have a sinus lift or significant bone grafting, the clinic may advise a few extra days. Some swelling is normal and varies from person to person.
Will I be without teeth between visits?: For implants, a temporary prosthesis is usually provided between the surgical and prosthetic phases so you can function and smile. It's not as sturdy as the final work and needs care, but it avoids leaving you without teeth.
What are bone grafting and sinus lift?: A sinus lift raises the floor of the sinus to create space for bone. Bone grafting adds material to the jaw when there isn't enough to support an implant. These are done before or during implant placement when the dentist considers them necessary.
What's the difference between a crown and a bridge?: A crown replaces or covers a single tooth. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by fixing to neighbouring teeth (or implants). Both are fixed. We'll explain which option fits your case in your plan.
How long does it take?: For All-on-4/6: usually two visits — about 5 days for the surgical phase, then a second trip (e.g. 5–10 days) for the final bridge. Single implants can often be done in one or two visits. We outline the full timeline in your custom plan.

Guarantees & aftercare

What about aftercare and if something goes wrong?: You receive aftercare instructions from the clinic. Implants and prostheses come with warranties (e.g. 10 years for implants, 3–5 years for All-on-4/6 and crowns). You'll also get an implant passport (implant details for any future dentist) and, where relevant, a prosthesis certificate. If an issue arises, the clinic's warranty terms apply. We stay in touch and can help coordinate with the clinic if you need follow-up or have concerns.
How long do the warranties last?: As a guide: implants about 10 years; All-on-4/6 and crowns/bridges 3–5 years depending on materials; retention bars around 2 years; removable prostheses, fillings, inlays, onlays around 1 year. We'll give you the exact warranty for your treatment in your plan.
When do warranties not apply?: Warranties don't apply after they expire or if you don't follow the clinic's instructions (e.g. hygiene, check-ups, avoiding certain habits). The clinic will explain the conditions when you sign your plan.
What can I do to avoid needing the warranty?: Good oral hygiene, careful use of your new teeth (e.g. avoid very hard foods, excessive force), and regular check-ups with your dentist. Follow the clinic's aftercare sheet and go to any recommended follow-up visits.
Who do I contact if there's a problem?: First contact the clinic and your treating dentist; they know your case. We can help coordinate and mediate. For serious or unresolved issues, you can contact the national contact point in the country where you were treated or in the UK. As a patient having care in the EU, you have the right to quality care, clear information, and to seek recourse. We'll help where we can.

Your stay & logistics

Do I need a visa for Romania or Hungary?: UK citizens can travel to Romania and Hungary for short stays (e.g. up to 90 days in 180) as tourists without a visa. Bring a valid passport. Rules can change; we recommend checking GOV.UK before you travel.
Who organises my stay?: We organise the clinic schedule, accommodation options and transfers. You book your flights and send us the details. We'll advise on routes and dates. Transfers are typically airport–hotel–airport and, where needed, hotel–clinic–hotel.
Do you provide accommodation and transfers?: Yes. We offer approved accommodation near the clinic in Romania and Hungary, and airport and clinic transfers. You can also book your own hotel if you prefer; we'll still coordinate your appointments and transfers to the clinic.
What happens between my visits?: The break between visits is for healing (e.g. after implant surgery). You may have a temporary prosthesis. We stay in contact. If anything worries you, you can reach us or the clinic. In an emergency, any local healthcare provider can help.
What happens when my treatment is finished?: The clinic does final checks and gives you your documents (implant passport, prosthesis certificate where relevant) and aftercare instructions. We follow up after you're back and remain your point of contact for questions or to organise future check-ups.

Destinations

What is dental tourism?: Dental tourism means travelling to another country for dental care. In the EU, this is often called cross-border healthcare. It's common for implants, full-arch work and other higher-cost treatments where savings are significant.
Why Romania and Hungary?: Both offer strong expertise, EU standards and lower costs than the UK. Hungary has a long history in dental tourism and is well connected. Romania tends to be among the most economical in Europe while still using quality materials and certified labs. We work only with clinics we've vetted in both countries.
Why do you only work in the EU?: The EU framework gives consistent standards, recognised qualifications and clear rules on quality and patient rights. Implants and materials must meet EU norms. Outside the EU, standards and recourse can be harder to verify. We focus on Romania and Hungary to keep quality and support manageable.

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