French citizens are increasingly turning to dental tourism due to significant challenges in accessing quality dental care within their own country. Many find themselves resorting to temporary removable dentures or simply postponing essential treatments. Several key factors explain this unfortunate situation. One of the primary reasons is the lack of accessible dental practices. In some cases, people must travel over an hour to find a dentist — a situation commonly referred to as a “medical desert.”
Additionally, many dentists in France are no longer accepting new patients, even those suffering from severe pain. Faced with these difficulties, people often call emergency services just to find a dentist on duty. And when they finally secure an appointment, another major obstacle arises: the high cost of treatment. Dental implant procedures, which are not covered by national health insurance, are freely priced by each practitioner. As a result, patients receive drastically different quotes depending on the region.
Let’s take a closer look at the root causes of these inequalities. If you recognize yourself in any of these situations, rest assured — there is a practical, affordable, and fast solution: dental tourism in Portugal. In simple terms, it means restoring your smile in a modern dental clinic specialized in implantology, located in Porto.
Join our growing list of satisfied patients by clicking here: https://perfeito-smile.com
Lack of Local Dentists: Geographic Inequality
In France, regional disparities are significant. Rural areas are most affected by the lack of medical professionals. These regions have fewer dentists per capita, forcing residents to travel long distances for care. Meanwhile, most dentists are concentrated in larger cities, where working conditions and financial incentives are more attractive. Unfortunately, even proximity does not guarantee affordability.
Economic Barriers and Low Reimbursement Rates
Carte vitale pour soins dentaires à l’ étranger
Cost remains one of the biggest barriers to dental care in France, especially for people with modest incomes. While public insurance (Sécurité Sociale) covers part of the expense, the out-of-pocket costs are often high, especially for complex treatments like crowns or dental implants. Some patients have supplemental health insurance, but not everyone has access to good coverage. Even among those who do, reimbursement rates depend on contract details and how long the person has held their policy.
Social Inequalities and Lack of Information
Vulnerable populations are often the most affected by lack of access to dental care. They may not be fully aware of the importance of preventive care or regular dental visits. The elderly, people with disabilities, and social assistance recipients are particularly exposed.
It’s important to note that dental problems don’t always appear suddenly — in many cases, early and affordable treatments can prevent tooth loss. Unfortunately, many people delay treatment due to lack of information or cost concerns, which can lead to irreversible damage and eventual extractions.
Dental Tourism: A Smart, Affordable Solution
✅ Lower Cost: Dental care in Portugal is significantly more affordable. Patients can save between 30% and 70%, depending on the treatment.
✅ Quick Access: Our clinic in Porto offers faster appointment scheduling than most French practices. Treatments can typically be planned within two weeks.
✅ Top-Quality Care: We use advanced equipment and modern techniques to perform even the most complex procedures, such as full mouth restorations for edentulous patients.
Quality of care: Our clinic has modern equipment capable of carrying out the most complex dental treatments as part of a total restoration of a toothless person.
