Vietnam’s dental tourism: A promising path to global recognition

According to a study by Research and Markets, global dental tourism revenue is projected to reach US$7.31 million in 2025 and $11.61 million by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3 percent. 

Top destinations in this field include Thailand, Hungary, Mexico, and India. 

These countries are known for internationally accredited dental systems, well-trained dentists, and fully developed medical tourism models.

In 2024, a market report by TechSci Research highlighted that Vietnam's dental services market is expected to grow steadily at a CAGR of 4.75 percent from 2024 to 2030.

This figure signals strong confidence in the sustainable growth of the Vietnamese dental industry, especially in the context of international integration and the growing trend of medical—and particularly dental—tourism.

According to TechSci experts, this growth is driven by several factors: Dental services in Vietnam are significantly more affordable than in developed countries like the U.S. and Australia, yet quality is continuously improving. 

Many clinics are equipped with modern technology that meets international standards.

Vietnamese dentists are increasingly well-trained, with many having studied or completed residencies abroad, and they consistently update their knowledge. 

Meanwhile, Vietnam's tourism and infrastructure continue to improve, making it easier to combine dental care with travel, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

As someone working directly in the field, I can say that this assessment accurately reflects the current landscape of Vietnamese dentistry.

Advanced technology and global integration

Many major dental clinics in Vietnam now offer cutting-edge technology, including dental microscopes for endodontics and restorative work, CAD/CAM systems, Cone Beam CT scanners, Exocad and 3Shape digital design software, AI-assisted diagnostics and treatment planning, and even implant-placement robots.

Digitized workflows streamline everything from intake and consultation to restorations, reducing treatment time and improving accuracy and patient experience.

At leading clinics in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Nha Trang City in Khanh Hoa Province, and Dong Thap Province, full ceramic restorations can often be completed in just one or two days—on par with leading dental markets worldwide.

A holistic approach to dental care

Modern dentistry in Vietnam is evolving beyond symptom treatment. 

It now includes disease prevention, emotional and psychological support, and patient-centered experiences.

Recent studies have shown clear links between oral health and systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, Alzheimer's, and immune disorders. 

As a result, many clinics in Vietnam now integrate comprehensive care services: oral microbiome assessments, routine saliva testing, nutrition counseling, gum and microbiota care, and personalized electronic health records.

Some clinics even resemble 'healing hotels,' offering medical-grade treatment in serene, hotel-like settings. 

Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, patients increasingly seek places that not only fix dental issues but also care for mental and physical well-being.

Modern clinics in Vietnam now offer:

- Soothing treatment environments, with relaxing design and calming music;

- Foreign patient support, including multilingual staff and post-treatment care;

- Minimally invasive techniques that reduce pain and speed recovery.

Highly skilled dentists with global experience

An increasing number of Vietnamese dentists are trained or have completed fellowships in the U.S., Australia, South Korea, Japan, and Europe. 

They bring back advanced technical expertise along with international service culture, communication skills, and fluency in foreign languages.

Competitive, cost-effective treatments

Dental procedures in Vietnam cost only one-third to one-tenth of what they do in developed countries, depending on the service, while still meeting global standards. 

This significant price advantage allows patients—especially overseas Vietnamese and foreigners—to save thousands of dollars on implants, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and more.

Dental tourism already generates substantial revenue for Vietnam and has tremendous room for growth.

Innovative techniques and tools more accessible in Vietnam

Certain materials and technologies—manufactured in countries like South Korea and India—are widely used in Vietnam but remain less common in developed markets due to import barriers or other restrictions.

For example, rapid maxillary expansion screws (MSEs), pre-made zirconia crowns for children, and advanced transillumination light systems are already in common use in Vietnam and are available to international patients with ease.

Attractive tourism options and diverse experiences

Vietnam is an appealing destination thanks to its natural beauty, diverse climate, growing hotel and resort infrastructure, and improved international connectivity. 

Patients can easily combine dental care with beach vacations, cultural tours, and culinary adventures.

Popular cities and tourist destinations like Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Sa Pa, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Dong Thap all offer promising options for both domestic and international patients.

Vietnam's dental tourism industry has immense potential to attract overseas Vietnamese, international visitors, and patients from Southeast Asia, Australia, and the U.S..

It contributes to foreign currency earnings, job creation, and growth in related sectors like travel, hospitality, food services, and wellness.

More importantly, it can help raise Vietnam's profile in the global healthcare arena.

What's missing? A unified ecosystem

Despite the strong foundation, Vietnam still lacks a fully integrated ecosystem that connects healthcare, travel, accommodation, and support services. 

There are few all-inclusive dental tourism packages.

Quality management systems and protections for international patients are not yet widespread. 

Service standards need to be raised, and professional feedback and complaint resolution mechanisms put in place.

Promotion also remains limited. 

Vietnam has yet to fully leverage international media channels, medical tourism expos, social platforms, or partnerships with major travel agencies.

Solutions to grow dental tourism in Vietnam

To truly develop dental tourism, Vietnam should invest heavily in technology, update equipment, and digitize clinical workflows. 

Continuous professional training—especially in language and cross-cultural communication—is crucial.

We must build cross-sector partnerships to offer all-in-one service packages that blend healthcare with tourism and wellness.

Legal frameworks, quality standards, and mechanisms to protect medical tourists' rights must be improved.

High-tech dental centers should be encouraged in major cities and top tourist destinations to help establish regional dental brands.

Dental tourism offers a promising development path for Vietnam's dental industry in this era of global integration. 

With modern technology, cost advantages, skilled professionals, and diverse travel experiences, Vietnam is well-positioned to become a top destination in Asia and beyond.

Stronger connections between healthcare, tourism, and supporting services will be the driving force behind this growth. 

Dental tourism doesn't just generate economic value—it also helps elevate Vietnam's reputation and influence in the international medical community.