Goa dentists package adventure with denture

PEOPLE 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 dentists are making a killing, offering packages that include cost-effective treatment and great vacations.

Many are even tying up with car rentals to organize airport pick-ups and drops for the patients. The treatment also includes advice on resorts and beach for a getaway. 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.

“When I started practicing, there were hardly 5-6 dentists in Calangute. Today, this entire area has more than 30 clinics. But there is work for everyone,” she said. The other areas where the clinics are mostly concentrated include Candolim, Anjuna-Mapusa and Benalium.

Interestingly, many of the dentists set up their clinics only during the tourist season of March to November.

CONTINUED ON P 5