Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your visit — from costs and travel logistics to what each treatment involves.
Planning Your Visit
How much does dental work cost compared to the UK?
Prices in Croatia are typically 40–60% lower than equivalent treatments in the UK. For example, a porcelain veneer that costs £800–£1,200 in London is around €350–€450 at our clinic in Dubrovnik — using the same European-standard materials.
Do you speak English?
Yes — our entire team speaks fluent English. We regularly treat patients from the UK, Ireland, Australia, and the US.
How do I book an appointment?
You can reach us by phone, email, or WhatsApp. We typically respond within one working day and can arrange a free initial consultation (in person or via video call) to discuss your treatment plan before you commit to travelling.
Is Dubrovnik easy to travel to?
Very. Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) has direct flights from London, Manchester, Dublin, Rome, and other major European cities — often under 3 hours. The clinic is a short taxi ride from the airport and from the Old Town.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on the treatment. A single filling or whitening session can be done in one visit. Veneers typically require two visits spread over 5–7 days. Implants involve two visits several months apart. We'll give you a clear timeline before you book travel.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a valid photo ID, any recent dental X-rays if you have them (these can be sent digitally in advance), a list of any medications you are taking, and your insurance details if relevant. If you have existing dental records from your home dentist, those are helpful but not essential — we carry out our own examination and X-rays at the first appointment.
Quality & Safety
Are your dentists EU-qualified?
Yes. All dentists at our clinic hold degrees from accredited European universities and are fully registered with the Croatian Dental Chamber (Hrvatska dentalna komora). Croatia has been a full EU member state since 2013, and Croatian dental qualifications are recognised across the EU under the same mutual recognition directives that applied to the UK before Brexit.
Are the materials and equipment the same as in the UK?
Yes. We use the same CE-marked materials found in leading UK private practices — including Ivoclar Emax ceramics for veneers and crowns, and established implant systems with long clinical track records. All materials meet EU regulatory standards, and we use digital X-ray equipment and modern sterilisation protocols throughout.
Is dental treatment in Croatia regulated?
Yes. Croatian dentistry is governed by the Croatian Dental Chamber and operates under EU professional and safety directives. As an EU member, Croatia follows the same regulatory framework for dental materials, hygiene standards, and practitioner qualifications as other EU countries. Patients are protected by the same consumer rights that apply across the EU.
Payments & Insurance
How do I pay?
We accept payment by credit and debit card, bank transfer, and cash in EUR or GBP. A deposit is required to confirm your appointment, with the balance due on the day of treatment. We will provide a full itemised invoice for all work carried out.
Does my dental insurance cover treatment in Croatia?
It depends on your policy. Some UK private dental insurance plans do cover treatment abroad — check your policy documents or call your insurer directly. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) cover emergency dental treatment only, not routine or elective procedures. We can provide a detailed itemised invoice to support any insurance claim.
Treatments
How long do dental implants take?
The implant placement is done in one visit. You then return after 3–6 months (once the implant has fused with the bone) for the crown placement. Many patients combine the second visit with a holiday in Dubrovnik.
Are veneers painful?
No. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and is essentially pain-free. You may experience some mild sensitivity for a day or two after the preparation appointment, which resolves quickly.
How long do veneers last?
With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, avoiding habits such as nail biting or chewing hard objects, and attending regular check-ups. We'll give you full aftercare guidance before you leave the clinic.
What is the difference between veneers and crowns?
A veneer is a thin shell bonded to the front surface of the tooth — it requires minimal removal of natural tooth structure. A crown caps the entire tooth and is used when there is more significant damage or structural need. We'll advise which is appropriate during your consultation.
Do you offer teeth whitening?
Yes. We offer professional in-clinic whitening, which typically lightens teeth by several shades in a single appointment. This is significantly more effective than over-the-counter products because we use higher-concentration agents applied under clinical supervision. Whitening is often combined with other cosmetic treatments such as veneers for a complete smile makeover.
Do you offer orthodontic treatment for adults?
Yes. We offer fixed braces and clear aligner options for adults. Treatment duration depends on the complexity of your case — we'll assess this at your consultation and provide a detailed quote.
Emergency Dentistry
What counts as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation causing severe pain, swelling, or risk to a tooth that cannot wait for a routine appointment. This includes: intense or persistent toothache, a broken or chipped tooth, a lost crown or filling, a dental abscess, bleeding that will not stop, or a tooth that has been knocked out. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call or WhatsApp us and we will advise immediately.
How quickly can you see me for a dental emergency?
We aim to see emergency patients on the same day. Contact us as early as possible — by phone or WhatsApp — and we will arrange an urgent appointment. If you are travelling and experience a dental emergency in Dubrovnik, we are one of the fastest clinics to reach in the area.
Aesthetic Treatments
What is SkinPen Microneedling and what does it treat?
SkinPen is a professional microneedling device that creates controlled micro-channels in the skin, triggering the body's natural collagen and elastin production. It is clinically proven to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and mild skin laxity. It is suitable for all skin types.
How many SkinPen sessions will I need?
Most patients see noticeable improvement after 3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. A single session produces visible results, but the full benefit — particularly for scarring and deeper texture concerns — builds over a course of treatments. We assess your skin at the first appointment and recommend a personalised plan.
Is SkinPen Microneedling painful?
A topical numbing cream is applied before the treatment, making the procedure very comfortable for most patients. You may feel a mild scratching sensation in areas with thinner skin, but significant discomfort is uncommon. The procedure typically takes 30–45 minutes.
What is the downtime after SkinPen Microneedling?
Redness and mild swelling — similar to a moderate sunburn — are normal for 24–48 hours after treatment. Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 days. We recommend avoiding direct sun exposure and wearing SPF 30+ for at least a week after each session.
What areas can Botox treat?
We use botulinum toxin injections to smooth dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial movement. The most common treatment areas are forehead lines, frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), and crow's feet around the eyes. We can also treat a gummy smile, jaw tension caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), and neck bands.
How long does Botox last?
Results typically last 3–4 months, after which the muscle activity gradually returns and the wrinkles reappear. With regular treatment, many patients find that results extend slightly over time as the muscles soften. We recommend scheduling your next appointment before the effect has fully worn off for consistent results.
What are dermal fillers and what can they treat?
Dermal fillers are injectable gels — most commonly hyaluronic acid — used to restore volume, smooth deep lines, and enhance facial contours. We use fillers to treat nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines, lip volume and definition, cheek volume loss, and under-eye hollows. Results are immediate and natural-looking.
How long do dermal fillers last?
This depends on the product used and the area treated. Lip fillers typically last 6–9 months. Cheek and mid-face fillers can last 12–18 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers are also reversible — they can be dissolved quickly and safely with an enzyme injection if needed.
What is the difference between Botox and dermal fillers?
Botox works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles — lines that appear when you move your face. Dermal fillers add physical volume to areas that have lost fullness or to smooth static lines that are visible at rest. The two treatments are complementary and are often used together for a complete facial rejuvenation. We will advise the best approach for your concerns at your consultation.
The Dubrovnik Experience
Can I combine dental treatment with a holiday?
Absolutely. Most patients find that treatment fits naturally into a longer stay. A veneer or whitening appointment typically needs 5–7 days in total — enough time to explore the Old Town, take a day trip to the Elafiti Islands, or travel the Dalmatian coast. Implant patients return for a second visit months later, which many use as an excuse for a second trip. We are happy to advise on timing your appointments to make the most of your stay in Dubrovnik.
What is the best time of year to visit Dubrovnik for treatment?
We are open year-round. For patients combining treatment with tourism, May–June and September–October offer warm weather, a calmer city, and better availability at hotels and restaurants than the peak summer months. Flights from the UK and Ireland operate direct to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) throughout the summer season, with connecting options available in winter.