Market Analysis and Insights
The global dental tourism market size was valued at USD 5.7 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.0% from 2023 to 2032, with an expected value of USD 21.48 billion in 2032.
.jpg "The Global Dental Tourism Market 2022-2032 (USD Billion)")
The global demand for cosmetic dentistry is on the rise, and the prevalence of dental abnormalities and diseases is rising as well. These are the two key factors driving the industry's expansion. During the forecast period, a number of variables, including lengthy waiting lists for dental care at home and more affordable and superior services abroad, are expected to drive market expansion.
Dental Tourism Market Scope:
| Metrics | Details |
| Base Year | 2023 |
| Historic Data | 2018-2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2024-2032 |
| Study Period | 2018-2032 |
| Forecast Unit | Value (USD) |
| Revenue forecast in 2032 | USD 21.48 billion |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 22.0% during 2023-2032 |
| Segment Covered | by Treatment Type ,by Region. |
| Regions Covered | By Mode of Transfer, By Type,By Channel,By End-use , By Region . |
| Key Players Profiled | Dental Departures, Dentists on Demand, Dental Travel International, MediTravelco, Franco-Vietnamese Hospital, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., Fortis Health Care, Clove Dental, Medlife Group, Raffles Medical Group, Oris Dental Centre, Dubai Dental Hospital, Imperial Dental Specialist Center, Liberty Dental Clinic, Thantakit International Dental Center, and ARC Dental Clinic. |
Market Definition
Traveling to a foreign nation to acquire dental care is known as dental tourism. This is frequently done to reduce the cost of dental care because it can be much more affordable in some nations than in others. Dental tourism can also be attractive to patients who want to access specific dental procedures that are not available in their home country or to patients who prefer to receive dental care from a dentist who speaks their language. Some of the most popular destinations for dental tourism include India, Thailand, Mexico, Turkey, Costa Rica, and Turkey. These countries offer a range of dental services at affordable prices, and many of their dental facilities are equipped with the latest technology. Foreign countries frequently offer dental care at substantially lower costs than developed nations. For instance, the cost of a dental implant in the United States can be between $3,000 and $5,000, but it can cost as little as $1,000 in Mexico. A wide variety of dental services, including as general dentistry, aesthetic dentistry, and implant dentistry, are provided in many nations that welcome dental tourists. In a couple of the countries that permit dental tourism, travel, housing, and dental care are all included in the price. This is useful for many people who are looking for an all-in package and would prefer not to waste much time and energy. Many dental facilities in countries that offer dental tourism are equipped with the latest technology and are staffed by highly qualified dentists. People are becoming more aware of the importance of dental care and the benefits it can offer, such as improved oral health, overall health, and quality of life. As a result, there is a rise in demand for dental care, particularly those provided by providers of dental tourism. Governments in many countries are promoting dental tourism as a way to attract foreign visitors and boost the local economy. This is being done through policies such as tax breaks, visa exemptions, and marketing campaigns. Many companies offer a range of services to dental tourists, including travel arrangements, accommodation, and dental treatment planning and coordination. In the upcoming years, it is anticipated that the worldwide dental tourism business would increase. Businesses in the dentistry tourism sector may find new opportunities as a result of this expansion. The global dental tourism market refers to the complex network of activities, transactions, and interactions involving all the dental products and services worldwide. This includes products such as dental implants, braces, crowns, and fillings, as well as services such as general dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, dental implants, braces, crowns, fillings, dental equipment, and dental supplies.
Key Market Segmentation
Insights on Treatment Type
The restorative treatment segment emerged as most lucrative
Restorative treatment is the most popular type of dental tourism because it is relatively affordable and can be completed in a short period of time. Because of this, patients who are on a tight schedule or budget might consider it. This section covers procedures, including dental fillings, crowns, root canals, and bridges. dental restorative care makes up more than half of the global market for dental tourism. Dental implants are long-term replacements that preserve and protect the natural bone while also acting as a stable base for prostheses. Prosthodontics treatment is also popular among dental tourists because it can significantly improve a patient's appearance and function. However, prosthodontics treatment can be more expensive than restorative treatment, and it may require multiple visits to the dentist. Orthodontic treatment is becoming increasingly popular among dental tourists because it can dramatically improve a patient's smile. However, orthodontic treatment can be very time-consuming and expensive. This segment includes procedures such as braces and Invisalign. Orthodontic treatment is the third most popular type of dental tourism, accounting for over 10% of the global market. Other treatments, such as cosmetic dentistry and oral surgery, are also popular among dental tourists, but they account for a smaller share of the overall market.
Insights on Region
The APAC Region Accounted for the Highest Share
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to remain the largest market for dental tourism in the coming years. This is due to the region's large population, rising prevalence of dental conditions, and relatively low cost of dental treatment. Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2022 and accounted for the largest revenue share of over 46%, thanks to the robust dental care markets in India, Malaysia, and Thailand. Treatment costs in nations like Thailand, Brazil, and India are each one-third less than they are in the United Kingdom or the United States. Destinations for medical tourism offer easily accessible and reasonably priced services, including dental, cosmetic, and medical procedures. Affordable medical care is made possible by prominent medical tourism locations' low labor costs. With over a quarter of the global market, North America is the second-largest market for dental travel. The high income levels and elderly population in the area are to blame for this. Europe is expected to achieve the fastest CAGR during the projection period. The healthcare system of France is reportedly overtaking the American healthcare system which is notorious for being extremely unaffordable in terms of various treatments including dental care, preventive care, cosmetic surgery, and other medical treatment procedures. This is causing the market to grow. Latin America and the Middle East and Africa are occupy a smaller market share for dental tourism, but they are growing rapidly. This is brought on by a number of elements, such as the rising income levels in the area and the increased prevalence of dental diseases.
Key Company Profiles
Some key players in the global dental tourism market are Dental Departures, Dentists on Demand, Dental Travel International, MediTravelco, Franco-Vietnamese Hospital, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., Fortis Health Care, Clove Dental, Medlife Group, Raffles Medical Group, Oris Dental Centre, Dubai Dental Hospital, Imperial Dental Specialist Center, Liberty Dental Clinic, Thantakit International Dental Center, and ARC Dental Clinic.
COVID-19 Impact and Market Status
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on the global dental tourism market. This was due to a number of factors, including:
• Travel restrictions: Many countries imposed travel restrictions during the pandemic, which made it difficult or impossible for dental tourists to travel to their destinations.
• Fear of contracting the virus: Many people were reluctant to travel during the pandemic due to the fear of contracting the virus.
• Reduced disposable income: The pandemic also led to a reduction in disposable income for many people, which made it less affordable for them to travel for dental tourism. These causes caused the global dental tourism business to see a 50%+ fall in 2020. However, the market has started to recover in 2022, as travel restrictions have eased and people have become more comfortable traveling again. The global dental tourism market has had a number of long-term effects as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, the epidemic has raised awareness of the value of cleanliness and security in dental offices. As a result, dental tourism companies are now placing a greater emphasis on hygiene and safety protocols. Additionally, the crisis has prompted a rise in the use of novel technologies in the dental realm. For instance, a lot of dental offices now provide telemedicine services that let consumers consult with dentists from a distance. In the future, this may increase accessibility and convenience of dental tourism.
Latest Trends
New trends are continually emerging in the market for dental tourism around the world. Key market trends that are emerging include:
1. The increase of aesthetic dental operations in foreign countries: Dental tourists are increasingly utilizing cosmetic dental procedures like veneers and teeth whitening. This is due to the fact that cosmetic procedures can significantly improve a patient's appearance and self-confidence.
2. The growing popularity of dental tourism for dental implants: Dental implants are another type of dental procedure that is becoming increasingly popular among dental tourists. Dental implants can help patients talk and eat more clearly, and they can also help them smile again.
3. The increasing availability of dental tourism packages: Many dental tourism companies now offer all-inclusive packages that include travel arrangements, accommodation, and dental treatment. Patients can now organize and reserve their dental tourism vacations more easily and conveniently.
4. The growing popularity of dental tourism in developing countries: Developing countries are becoming increasingly popular destinations for dental tourism. This is because dental care is frequently more affordable in underdeveloped nations than in developed nations.
Recent Developments in the Global Dental Tourism Market: A Snapshot
• In terms of providers, the dental clinics industry held the biggest market share in 2021, contributing to almost three-fourths of the total revenue from dental tourism worldwide. Throughout the projection period, it is expected that this market segment would continue to retain the bulk of the market. In addition, the projected year is anticipated to have the greatest CAGR in the same segment, at 14.2%. Additionally, healthcare systems around the world think that clinics have a lower infection risk than hospitals.
• By region, Asia-Pacific is expected to take control of the market by 2031, accounting for more than half of the income generated by dental tourism worldwide in 2021. This is brought about by the simple accessibility of dentists with extensive experience. Additionally, the development of the dentistry industry's infrastructure has aided in market expansion.
Significant Growth Factors
• Dental diseases are becoming more common: Around the world, conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and malocclusion are becoming more common. Poor diet, bad lifestyle decisions, and aging are a few causes of this. The increasing prevalence of dental conditions is leading to a higher demand for dental services, including those offered by dental tourism providers.
• High treatment costs in developed countries: The cost of dental treatment in developed countries is often high, which is making dental tourism more attractive to patients from these countries. For instance, the cost of a dental implant in the United States can be between $3,000 and $5,000, but it can cost as little as $1,000 in Mexico.
• Availability of advanced dental facilities in popular tourist destinations: Popular tourist destinations such as Thailand, Mexico, and Costa Rica are now home to a number of advanced dental facilities that offer high-quality services at affordable prices. This is making these destinations even more attractive to dental tourists.
• Increasing awareness about the importance of dental care: People are becoming more aware of the importance of dental care and the benefits it can offer, such as improved oral health, overall health, and quality of life.
• Favorable policies promoting dental tourism globally: Governments in many countries are promoting dental tourism as a way to attract foreign visitors and boost the local economy. This is being done through policies such as tax breaks, visa exemptions, and marketing campaigns.
• The increase of aesthetic dental operations in foreign countries: Dental tourists are increasingly utilizing cosmetic dental procedures like veneers and teeth whitening. This is due to the fact that cosmetic procedures can significantly improve a patient's appearance and self-confidence.
• The growing popularity of dental tourism for dental implants: Dental implants are another type of dental procedure that is becoming increasingly popular among dental tourists. In addition to improving a patient's smile, dental implants can aid a patient's ability to eat and speak.
• The increasing availability of dental tourism packages: Many dental tourism companies now offer all-inclusive packages that include travel arrangements, accommodation, and dental treatment.
Restraining Factors
• Lack of awareness about dental tourism: Many people are not aware of the option of dental tourism, or they are hesitant to travel to another country for dental treatment.
• Concerns about quality of care: Some people are concerned about the quality of dental care that they will receive in a foreign country. This is especially true if they are not aware with the nation's dental regulations and standards.
• Language barrier: If you don't speak the language, it may be challenging to interact with dentists and other medical experts abroad. This may result in miscommunications and therapeutic mistakes.
• Difficulty in resolving disputes: If there is a problem with your dental treatment, it can be difficult to resolve the dispute if you are not familiar with the country's legal system and language.
• Risk of medical complications: There is always a risk of medical complications when undergoing any medical procedure, including dental procedures. If you are going to a foreign nation for treatment, the risk is significantly greater.
• Increasing competition from domestic dental clinics: Domestic dental clinics are offering increasingly competitive prices and services, which is making dental tourism less attractive to some patients.
The above-mentioned elements are projected to fuel the worldwide dental tourism market's growth in the years to come, despite these obstacles. New business prospects in the dentistry tourism industry are probably going to be produced by this increase.
Key Segmentation:
Key Segments of the Dental Tourism Market
Dental Tourism Type Overview
• Preventive Dental Tourism
• Restorative Dental Tourism
• Prosthodontics Dental Tourism
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS) Dental Tourism
• Others
Distribution Channel Overview
• Insurance Intermediaries
• Insurance Companies
• Banks
• Insurance Brokers
• Insurance Aggregators
End-User Overview
• Senior Citizens
• Education Travelers
• Business Travelers
• Family Travelers
• Others
Regional Overview
North America
• U.S
• Canada
Europe
• Germany
• France
• UK
• Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Rest of Asia Pacific
South America
• Mexico
• Brazil
• Rest of South America
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The dental tourism market was valued at USD 21.48 billion in 2032.
The dental tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 22.0% during 2023-2032.
The major players are Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd (Global), Bangkok International Dental Departures, Dentists on Demand, Dental Travel International, MediTravelco, Franco-Vietnamese Hospital, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., Fortis Health Care, Clove Dental, Medlife Group, Raffles Medical Group, Oris Dental Centre, Dubai Dental Hospital, Imperial Dental Specialist Center, Liberty Dental Clinic, Thantakit International Dental Center, and ARC Dental Clinic.
To get latest version of dental tourism market report can be obtained on demand from the website.
Dental tourism is defined by the American Dental Association (Resolution 28H-2008) as "the act of travelling to another country for the purpose of receiving dental treatment." Medical tourism includes dental tourism. Historically, wealthy people from developing countries travelled to developed countries in search of advanced medical care. However, the flow of patients is currently in reverse, with many patients travelling from developed countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany to developing countries such as Hungary, India, Mexico, and Brazil. Since, the majority of patients travel abroad, the term "medical tourism" has gained significant popularity in recent years. Over the last few years, the primary factor driving this market has been a significant difference in the cost of various treatments. In some cases, developing countries provide high-quality dental care at lower costs. In most cases, the combined cost of travel and treatment is equal to half of the total treatment cost in their home country. For example, the cost of a dental implant in the United States and Canada is 50 percent to 60 percent higher than the same treatment in Mexico.
Some of the key factors driving the growth of the global dental tourism market include declining oral health, lack of dental insurance or coverage for certain ailments, high treatment costs, and long waiting periods. The rise of global dental tourism has spawned a plethora of related services, such as online platforms for hospital, treatment, and doctor selection. Online portals that provide patient feedback on the hospital, treatment, and doctors are also assisting dental destinations in gaining trust and attracting more tourists.
The global tourism market is being driven by an increase in tourists due to low-cost air travel and low-cost lodging. Due to the significant cost difference, most of these tourists receive medical treatment, including dental treatment. Over the forecast period, improving healthcare facilities in developing economies is expected to drive market growth. Dental tourism refers to people travelling to another country to receive dental services such as preventive, restorative, and prosthodontics. The availability of high-quality treatments at low cost has resulted in a significant increase in the number of patients travelling to foreign countries for dental treatment in recent years. Access to telemedicine and mHealth are some of the more recent technological advancements in the global healthcare market, which are likely to benefit the global dental tourism market.
Dental tourism costs include lodging, local transportation, food and drink, domestic tours, entertainment, shopping, leisure, and sports activities, to name a few. The economic impact of medical treatments and leisure activities on the economies of the destinations is significant. Furthermore, cost advantages as well as a shorter waiting time have paved the way for market expansion. Another factor that has aided the market's growth is the availability of crowns, caps, and other dental accessories at a much lower cost.
Prosthodontic treatment accounted for 35.1 percent of market share in 2020, and it is expected to grow at a faster rate in the coming years. Prosthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment planning, restorative management, and maintenance of patients who have missing teeth or hard and soft tissues in the maxillofacial region. Prosthodontics is one of nine dental specialties (the others being prosthodontics, periodontics, paediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral pathology, oral radiology, oral surgery, endodontics, and public health dentistry) and is an important part of most general practices.
Prosthodontics is a broad field that encompasses fixed, removable, and maxillo-facial prosthodontics. Implant prosthodontics is a subspecialty of dentistry that is sometimes treated as a separate entity and other times as a component of other subspecialties. Individual teeth are restored, or missing teeth are replaced with restorations that are permanently attached to the teeth and cannot be removed by the patient. The most common fixed restorations are crowns and fixed partial dentures of various designs fabricated from a variety of materials. Maxillofacial prosthodontics is a subspecialty of dentistry that focuses on the treatment of patients with developmental and acquired defects of the maxillofacial region, rather than just the teeth and mouth.
Many times, in combination, the principles of fixed, removable, and implant prosthodontics are used to treat patients' defects caused by cleft palate, trauma, or resection due to malignancy. Implant prosthodontics is the fastest-growing area of dentistry, with increased research and development combining with growing patient interest to drive up demand. The most common restorative procedure is a single crown, and approximately 2.3 million implant-supported crowns are made each year.
In terms of geography, the market is defined as host countries that serve as hotspots for dental tourism. Different geographical regions have different countries that are hotspots for dental tourism and draw many patients from all over the world. Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Spain, and Turkey are all popular destinations for dental tourists in Europe. The distribution of the market by key dental treatment types is shown in the table below. Hungary is known as the world's dental capital. One of the main reasons for the inflow of dental patients to Hungary is the excellent cost-benefit ratio. The high quality of dental education attracts many international students to pursue dental studies in Hungary, increasing the number of dentists available. Due to the existence of stricter European standards, the quality of materials used in dental practices is high. In Hungary, the rate of complications in dental care is 5%, which is comparable to other European countries. Positive treatment experiences and a high level of patient satisfaction, in addition to the aforementioned factors, result in an increase in the number of dental tourists visiting Hungary.
With rising prices in western European countries, the introduction of economy air travel, and the availability of low-cost airlines, Budapest became more accessible from all parts of Europe, and patients from other European countries began to visit Hungary for dental services. In 2015, the total number of active dentists was close to 6000. This equates to approximately 3000 dental offices, 700 of which are involved in dental tourism. The association of leading Hungarian dental clinics, which has been in operation since 2009, was founded with the goal of providing high professional standards, assurance, and liability.
The United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Scandinavia, and Switzerland are the top countries sending dental tourists to Hungary. Inbound dental tourists from the United Kingdom account for nearly a third of all dental tourists in Hungary. The most reliable source of information for travelling to Hungary for dental services is a recommendation from a friend, followed by internet services that provide extensive information about dental treatment in Hungary.
India is one of Asia's most important dental tourism destinations. It is known for both the advanced technologies in healthcare that are used and the high quality of care that is provided to patients. Patients from the United States and Europe save about 70% on treatment in India when compared to treatment in their home country. The government is promoting medical tourism as a viable option in the country. The healthcare infrastructure is receiving a lot of attention. The visa barriers are being reduced; foreigners apply for M visas to receive medical treatment in India. In the future, a visa-on-arrival option may be considered for this purpose. In India, states like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu are medical treatment centers.
