Frequently Asked Questions
Q
These savings seem amazing. It suggests that the dental services being offered would be of lower quality that I could get at home.
The issue is lower cost, not lower quality. However, total savings are considerable – our clients are saving an average of 70% compared with North American rates. But the substantially lower cost of doing business in China, compared with Europe and North America, gives a tremendous advantage to the dental specialists operating their state-of-the-art clinics in China , particularly in major cities such as Nanjing.
In fact, the caliber of Dr. Tom Chen’s clinic is easily the equal, if not superior, to top-level facilities in Canada and the United States. Dr. Chen provides our clients with the highest quality of dental care and materials exclusively sourced from E.U. and American suppliers.
Q
What range of savings could I expect to see?
Treatment Plans are individually tailored to our clients' specific requirements in direct consultation with Dr. Chen. Clients receive a complete treatment record and a detailed invoice in English for their records, including X-rays.
Our Basic Rates reflect these individual treatment plans.
Q
Dental work can take many sessions and a lot of time. How much time would I really have to visit the Nanjing-Shanghai region of China?
As a rule, Dr. Chen’s clinic considers three to-four 3-hour visits as the average for most patients. Of course, this may vary depending upon the complexity of the dental work required and the individual clients wishes. The Clinic, which is staffed by an experienced team of fully qualified and licensed dentists, is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
As always with the InciDental Tourist, you are in charge of your own schedule.
Q
Will there be a full-time guide and interpreter to help me?
During your dental treatment and throughout your stay, The InciDental Tourist will provide two full-time experienced personnel to provide guide and translation/interpretation services to you and other members of your group. Our staff will manage all major travel, hotel, event and other arrangements. You will be free to enjoy this exciting and historic region of China!
Q
What happens if I have a problem after returning to Canada?
Follow-up problems are exceptionally rare and could most likely be dealt with by your local dentist at minimal cost.
Q
Can I claim a portion of my costs through my existing insurance program?
Normally, you should have no problems making a claim. We provide detailed English-language treatment records and X-rays responding to the requirements of most insurance programs.
Dental dollars go a long way
Both Manulife and Great-West Life responded by email to questions from EBNC regarding the portability of dental benefits for Canadian dental tourists. GWL's standard dental plans have no contractual requirement that services be provided in Canada. If the cost of the out-of-country services is less than the provincial fee guide, the amount reimbursed will be based on actual cost subject to deductibles, coinsurance, maximums or other limitations. Where offered under the plan design, services provided can also be reimbursed under health care spending accounts.
The same applies to the Manulife standard contract, although many customized contracts exist. The claim will be converted to Canadian dollars and adjudicated according to the specific group's contractual wording, which often covers only the reasonable and customary fee for service as specified in the provincial dental association fee guide, where one exists. Similarly, as long as the out-of-country dental expense meets the criteria for eligibility in accordance with the terms of the HCSA, then the claim will be payable.
While both insurers view their role as simply assessing and paying claims and offer no opinions as to quality of care availability in specific countries, they encourage plan members to exercise caution to ensure that the level of hygiene and professional standards are acceptable.
Source: Employee Benefit News Canada
Q
Should I get an assessment of the dental work I require before travelling to China?
Absolutely. A pre-assessment is always a good idea. It will give you added confidence that the treatment you receive in Nanjing is appropriate for you. It will also give you a clear idea of how much money you will be saving on your treatment.
Q
Can I bring a spouse or a friend?
Yes. We have rates specially tailored to accommodate travelling companions. Based on shared accommodation, travel companions enjoy a $500 savings, representing approximately 40% savings compared with regular travel costs.
Q
Does your company make travel and visa arrangements?
We can assist with air travel and visa arrangements at your request.
Many clients book the air fares directly to take advantage of air miles points promotions. The Incidental Tourist package includes all accommodation, all scheduled touring/sightseeing transfers/Transportation, bilingual guides, compete western breakfasts daily, and meals on weekend excursions. Check out a sample itinerary.
All travel and accommodation arrangements in China are made through our local office in partnership with CITS Nanjing, Tom Steel, Manager.
"I had 3 crowns and a whitening procedure.
"I was so impressed with Dr.Chen and the assistance of Cathy (Incidental Tourist) that I am bringing my father from Italy next month for implants and crowns.
Media Coverage
"Dental Tourism combines dentistry with the trip of a lifetime.
A vacation that'll have you drooling.
