Life, Love & the Little Things Inbetween

Biting the Bullet

About a week ago, I developed a toothache. One of my top molars was cracked, and I could no longer ignore the sensitivity to cold drinks and food. A few months before I left for Thailand, I had a similar issue with a bottom molar on the other side and had that tooth removed. Because the latter was cracked in several places, it came out in small pieces. The procedure took four hours and cost around A$500 (US$320, 10650 baht). When it was finally over, I cried (even the nurse teared up), more from relief than from the pain. As I contemplated having to go through another extraction, I decided not to become anxious. Instead, I thanked my lucky stars that at least I was in Thailand, where the cost of going to the dentist is significantly lower.

Upon arrival at the dental surgery, I was happy to note that all the staff spoke good English. I had two X-rays, and during the consultation, the dentist referred me to a specialist, who would give me options on how to proceed. The total cost for two X-rays and a consultation was 300 baht...or A$14 (US$9). I nearly fell over when the receptionist showed me the invoice. X-rays done by dentists in Australia cost around A$90 (US$65 or 1900 baht) each.

Yesterday, I attended my appointment with the specialist and was given three options. Remove the tooth and do nothing more, have a root canal and try and save the tooth, or have it removed and get an implant. I decided to go with an implant. I had an implant done in Australia around ten years ago, which cost A$4000 (US$2570). I was quoted 45000 baht (US$1360 or A$2110) for the implant. I imagine the price for an implant in Australia has risen significantly over the last decade.

The price for the specialist to remove my tooth yesterday was 1200 baht (A$56 or US$36)...what a bargain. The tooth came out easily, and after two hours, the bleeding stopped. Later in the evening, I comfortably ate dinner and, for the first time in a while, enjoyed a cold drink.