Dentistry in Ukraine

Dentistry, also known as oral medicine and dental medicine, is a branch of medicine that comprises the study, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders, diseases, and conditions of the teeth, supporting structures, and the soft tissue of the mouth. Although the field of dentistry is mainly associated with teeth among the general public, it is actually not limited to teeth but also encompasses the treatment and conditions of the jaws and oral cavity, such as cleft palate.

In addition to general practice, dentistry has a number of specialties and subspecialties, including:

• Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics – this involves the straightening of teeth and the modification of midface and mandibular growth. While orthodontics involves the management of tooth movement, dentofacial orthopedics entails the guidance of facial growth and development, which mostly occur during childhood.
• Pediatric dentistry – also known as pedodontics, pediatric dentistry is a dental specialty dealing with the care of children’s teeth.
• Periodontics – this dental specialty is concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the periodontal membrane, as well as related tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth.
• Prosthodontics – this dental specialty involves the restoration and maintenance of oral appearance, function, and comfort using prostheses, such as crowns. This specialty also provides oral prostheses to correct deformities, such as cleft palate.
• Endodontics – this involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp, as well as the surrounding tissues.
• Public health dentistry – this dental specialty’s primary concern is the prevention of dental decay and periodontal disease (disease of tissues that surrounds the teeth). On a larger scale, it involves the improvement of oral health in large populations.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery – this involves the extractions, implants, and surgery of the mouth, jaws, and face.
• Oral and maxillofacial radiology – this involves the study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases.
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology – this involves the study, diagnosis, and, in some cases, treatments of oral and maxillofacial related diseases.
• Special needs dentistry – this specialty deals with dental treatments for those with developmental and acquired disabilities.
• Geriatric dentistry – also known as geriodontics, this specialty delivers dental care to older adults and involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of problems associated with age-related diseases.

Dental treatments are performed by a dental team, which usually consists of dentists and dental auxiliaries (dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental technicians, and dental therapists).

What does the Procedure Involve?

A range of medical and cosmetic procedures are used to diagnose and manage issues that affect the jaws, teeth, and oral cavity. The following are some of the most common dental procedures:

• Comprehensive examination – this type of procedure evaluates your overall oral health. A comprehensive dental exam typically includes dental evaluation, dental health assessment, bite and jaw examination, cavity check, restoration examination, teeth cleaning and stains removal, dental X-Rays, oral cancer screening, medications review, and a lesson on oral hygiene. A general dentist will discuss with you your current oral health, including your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and any other oral health problems they may have seen through the examination. If any potential issues are found, your dentist will give you their prevention recommendations.
• Routine cleanings – this type of procedure is carried out to remove the buildup of tartar and bacteria that accumulate in between your teeth and gums. Routine mouth cleaning is important to maintain good oral health.
• Dental bonding – this procedure is used to repair decayed, chipped, discolored, or fractured teeth, as well as to reduce gaps between teeth. It can also be used to build up older teeth in order to make them appear younger. The goal of the procedure is to improve a person’s smile. During this procedure, your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin to your teeth. Then, the resin is hardener under an ultraviolet laser or light. Afterward, the resin material is shaped and polished to ensure the result looks natural and smooth.
• Braces – a dental brace is a device used to correct crooked or misaligned teeth. It can improve the health and appearance of your smile. It works by exerting steady pressure over time to gradually move your teeth into alignment.
• Crowns and caps – a dental crown or cap is a tooth-shaped cover that is placed over a decayed, broken, badly stained, or misshaped tooth to improve its size, shape, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns can be made of porcelain fused to metal, metal, ceramic, or resin. Before a crown is placed, the existing tooth is filed down. Then, the crown is applied over it using special cement, thus fully encasing the tooth. The whole process is usually performed under local anesthetic.
• Bridges – Dental bridges are used to close (or bridge) the gaps in your teeth if you have missing teeth. A dental bridge is a false tooth held in place by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. It can be made from a wide variety of materials, even gold. However, dental bridges are typically made from porcelain to make it blend in with your natural teeth.
• Implants – Dental implants are replacement tooth roots made of titanium that provide a strong foundation for the attachment of removable or permanent crowns. It is done to replace damaged or missing teeth. Dental implants can look and function much like real teeth. The process of placing a dental implant can be done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
• Extractions – a severely damaged tooth due to excessive tooth decay or tooth infection that cannot be saved needs to be pulled out. Tooth extractions may also be done to resolve crowding, as well as for those who get braces. Tooth extraction procedure can be simple or surgical, depending on the state of your tooth. Simple tooth extraction is usually performed under local anesthetic, while surgical tooth extraction may involve general anesthesia.
• Dentures – dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They can be complete or partial. Partial dentures are used when some of your natural teeth still remain, while complete dentures are used when all of your teeth are missing.
• Gum surgery – mostly known as periodontal surgery, this type of procedure is often required to treat certain gum conditions and diseases, such as periodontitis or gingivitis. Its goal is to treat the gum disease and any damage it may have caused.
• Filling and repairs – to treat a cavity, the decayed portion of the tooth can be removed and then “filled.” Fillings can also be done to repair broken or cracked teeth.
• Veneers – Dental veneers are custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They can change the color, size, shape, and length of your teeth to improve your appearance. It can be made from resin composite or porcelain. However, the most popular material is porcelain as they look more natural than composite veneers.
• Root canals – this procedure is done to repair and save a tooth that becomes infected or badly decayed. The root canal procedure involves removing the pulp and nerve from a tooth. The inside of your tooth is then cleaned and sealed. This procedure can prevent the tissue that surrounds the tooth from being infected.

How Long Should I Stay in Ukraine?

Your length of stay depends on the type of procedure you get. For most dental procedures, you can leave the clinic or hospital on the same day. However, if you undergo a surgical procedure, then you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Note that most dental procedures require multiple appointments to complete. Therefore, although you can leave the hospital on the same day, you may need to stay in Ukraine for several days or weeks until all of your appointment is completed. In some cases, you may need two separate travel to Ukraine.

What's the Recovery Time?

Recovery time can be different from one person to another, depending on the procedure you undergo, the reason you need the procedure, and your general health. Your dentist will give you a recovery timeline, which includes the time frame when you can go back to work, resume your normal routine, and perform vigorous activities, such as exercise.

What About Aftercare?

Your dentist will give you aftercare instructions that you will need to follow. The instructions may include diet, restrictions, and how to care for the treated area. You may feel some discomfort and pain for the first few days and your dentist may prescribe pain medications. Make sure to take the medications as instructed.

To maintain the result of your procedure, it is important that you practice good oral hygiene. Always brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash every day. It is also important that you have dental examinations regularly. In addition, you need to avoid damaging habits, such as biting your nails or chewing hard items.

What's the Success Rate?

The field of dentistry is constantly improving and advancing. Experienced and skilled dentists should be able to provide high success rates for the procedures they perform. Still, risks and side effects are possible. These include nerve injury, infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding structures. To avoid these risks and side effects, make sure to choose a certified dentist with proven track records.

Are there Alternatives to Dentistry?

Any problems in your jaw, teeth, and oral cavity are diagnosed, treated, and prevented by the practice of dentistry. Therefore, there are no other alternatives than to see your dentist. However, if your problem is found to be caused by other diseases, your dentist may refer you to the relevant doctors.

Dentistry in and around Ukraine

About Ukraine

Ukraine offers a favorable cost of living, which may be a strong draw for why one should consider exploring it. In particular, its capital city of Kiev ranks high among the list of economical European capitals. This affordability impacts various aspects from food, drinks to sightseeing, transport, and accommodations, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

An added intrigue of Ukraine, specifically Kiev, is in how its affordable rates do not compromise the quality of the experience. Rather, it enhances the encounter as it leaves room to sample more of what the city has to offer. Amidst the cost-effectiveness, the country still presents a rich collection of attractions that are worthwhile. These span from convenient transport systems, diverse culinary options, alluring sightseeing spots to suitable lodging facilities. So, not only do you get to save money, but you also extravagant value while navigating through this remarkable city.

Ukraine is a growing magnet for health tourists, with a rise in individuals journeying for Dentistry services. The option to access private dental care, cosmetic procedures, and a diverse range of medical treatments at a fraction of what they would cost in one's home country makes it incredibly appealing. Further, the absence of extensive waiting lists is another attractive feature.

Added to these, Ukraine's reputation is rapidly gaining traction on the international front as a premier hub for laser eye surgery. The country is carving an image for itself as a pioneer in eye care, offering innovative and state-of-the-art laser vision correction techniques. Thus, the country isn’t just a destination for affordable services, but also for quality specialized treatments at the forefront of modern medical technology.

Popular Parts of Ukraine

Boasting a diverse populace of approximately 42.5 million residents, Ukraine stands as an expansive and multicultural nation that happens to be the biggest geographically within Europe’s borders. The country's lush forests create the feeling of an unspoiled, yet to be unveiled paradise. The breathtaking landscape combined with the stunning architectural feats create aesthetically pleasing vistas, which are a key part of Ukraine’s appeal.

• Kiev or Kyiv is the capital of Ukraine. It is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, dating back to the 5th century. The city is steeped in history with cathedrals and golden churches. Kiev is now embodied by urban art and cafes.
• Lviv is a picturesque city full of charming art nouveau architecture and interiors, cozy cafes, and squares and is known as the city of art. Lviv’s historic center is listed in UNESCO World Heritage.
• Carpathian Mountain is the gem of Ukraine. This territory is brimming with natural beauty. Tourists are attracted by its thick forests, meadows, rural shepherds, and of course the incredible mountain lakes. There are many outdoor activities that tourists can do such as hiking, riding, skiing, and cycling.
• Odesa is the perfect summer getaway. It’s known for an affordable summer destination, with wide sandy beaches. The city is also home to the biggest harbor on the Black Sea. Odesa is famous for its Potemkin Steps and fantastic buildings.
• Ivano-Frankivsk is sometimes called “little Lviv.” With its beautiful architecture and sophisticated restaurants, exploring Ivano-Frankivsk is an amazing experience. For many people, the city is the base for exploring the Carpathian Mountains.

It's important to consider that travel advisories from authorities such as the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office advise against traveling to regions like Crimea, Donetsk, and Lugansk. As a traveler, it's crucial to stay updated on such notifications and follow relevant guidance from your respective government before planning a journey. Ensure you are well-informed about local situations and regulations to ensure your safety and security while traveling.

Weather and Climate in Ukraine

Ukraine predominantly experiences a moderate climate, with an intriguing exception. The southern coastline of Crimea stands out with its delightful subtropical weather. This distinct climate pattern adds to the region's charm, making it distinct from the broader Ukrainian weather trends.

Ukraine's summers tend to kick off in June and extend until September. During this period, temperatures fluctuate within the range of 19 – 25 °C, underlining agreeable weather conditions. The days are typically long, sunny, and warm, sporadically met with occasional rain showers. With such favorable weather, it comes as no surprise that summer is the peak of tourist activity in Ukraine.

Transitional seasons - spring and autumn - are characterized by mild temperatures. However, they are also the seasons with the most rainfall. Spring, in particular, brings a colorful impact on Ukraine's cities with blossoming plants painting a vibrant landscape.

Winter, on the other hand, introduces a colder climate with notable snowfall, particularly in the northeastern regions. The average temperature ranges from 5 to -3 °C during this time, creating a winter wonderland that contrasts to the warm and vibrant seasons.

Getting Around in Ukraine

Boryspil International Airport is the largest airport in Ukraine. Located 29km east of Kyiv, the airport serves domestic flights and has international connections with major cities in Europe and a few cities in Asia. Boryspil International Airport is the hub for Ukraine International Airlines and serves several budget airlines including Lauda, Ryanair, and SkyUp airlines. There are two other airports that serve international and domestic flights: Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport and Odessa International Airport.

Tourists can take a taxi, bus, or shuttle bus to get to the city center. Airport taxis use meters and are comfortable. Some taxis even accept payment by credit cards. Buses are also a great option to get to the city center, Sky Bus takes tourists from Boryspil International Airport to Kyiv and departs from Terminal D and Terminal B. Sky Bus should cost around 60 UAH or 100 UAH depending on the destination.

To visit different cities, domestic flights are inexpensive and will speed up long distance journeys. The fastest way to get around big cities is the minibusses or subway (known as Metro). Minibusses follow routes that the regular bus travels on. Tourists can flag minibusses and ask them to stop at other places that are not the specified bus stops. The fare is fixed no matter how far your destination is.

Taxis are easily available in big cities. Most taxis don’t use a meter but taxi drivers usually don’t cheat. A long trip in Kyiv usually cost around 70 UAH. Shortstops start from 15 to 20 UAH. Tourists can also order a taxi by phone, although most taxi operators do not speak English. Locals usually are happy to help order a taxi for tourists.

Driving in Ukraine by car or motorcycle is another option to explore the country, but the roads are bad and the signs are written in Ukrainian (Cyrillic alphabet) only. Road policeman is one of the biggest disadvantages as they usually request a small bribe when they stop tourists.

Tourist Visas in Ukraine

Individuals hailing from countries like the European Union, Canada, and the United States, among others, enjoy the liberty of staying in Ukraine visa-free for a span of up to 90 days. However, citizens of certain other nations like China, India, and Thailand are required to secure a visa prior to setting foot in the country. To defend against any potential misunderstanding or complications, it is wise to verify visa obligations and specifics from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine's website before planning a trip.

Certain provisions are in place for tourists that allow visa-on-arrival options at major airports and seaports. In addition, an e-Visa system is operational for citizens from 52 designated countries, rendering the process more streamlined. It is mandatory for all visitors to possess a passport that remains valid for a minimum of 3 months beyond the expected date of exit from Ukraine. Moreover, this passport should have at least two pages that are devoid of any visas, marks, or stamps. These regulations ensure a smooth immigration process, avoiding any potential complications during travel.

Additional Information about Visas:

• The e-Visa application process is simple and straightforward, and it can be completed online in a minute.
• Citizens of some countries may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a proof of onward travel or a letter of invitation, when applying for an e-Visa.
• Visa-on-arrival is available for citizens of some countries at major airports and seaports in Ukraine, but it is important to note that visa-on-arrival is not guaranteed and may be subject to additional requirements.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: The official currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH). 1 USD is equivalent to 36.72 UAH.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are available even in small towns. Currency exchange points are very common in cities. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards but many places are cash only. Tipping in Ukraine is common, but not obligatory.
3. Local Language: Ukrainian is the official language. Romanian, Polish, Hungarian, Belarusian, and Russian are widely spoken. Ukrainians either speak native Ukrainian or Russian. Most people in tourist areas speak English very well.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Religion in Ukraine is very diverse with most of the population following Orthodox Christianity. Judaism, Buddhism, Paganism, and Hinduism are in the minority.
5. Public Holidays: Ukraine celebrates major Orthodox holy days as well as Victory Day, Constitution Day, and Independence Day. If a festive or non-working day falls on Saturday and Sunday, the holiday will be postponed to the next working day.