In Goa, dentists package adventure with denture

PANAJI: If you are contemplating a visit to the dentist for a painful root canal treatment or a new set of time-consuming dentures, consider visiting Goa.

Dentists in this western state famed for its sun-soaked beaches and bustling nightlife are offering holiday packages as well, promising a dash of pleasure to lessen your pain.

Already, hundreds of tourists from Europe and Australia are taking up on the offer and visiting the state every year for their dental treatment mixed with a wellearned holiday.

Called ‘dental tourism’ or ‘dental holiday’, the phenomenon driven primarily by private dentists has taken off in a big way, prompting the state health minister to explore how even government institutions can profit from the trend.

Exact numbers to determine the scale of dental tourism is difficult to get. But anecdotal evidence suggests that hundreds of dentists are making a killing, offering packages that include cost-effective treatment and great vacations.

Many are even tying up with car rentals to organise airport pick-ups and drops for the patients.

The treatment also includes advice on resorts and beach for the best getaway for a few days with family and friends.

Gary Jones from London is at the moment getting his dental implants done while also enjoying a great holiday in Goa.

“It has been great so far. Besides being cheaper, the stay for treatment here is a lot more exciting,” he said.

Dr Rachna Fernandes, a local dentist, is therefore all smiles.

More foreigners coming in for treatment has meant a mushrooming of dental clinics, particularly in areas close to the many beaches that dot the state.