Australian patient travels to HCMC for dental restoration after 20-year struggle

After nearly 20 years of dental problems, Charles Gilbert traveled to Saigon Dental Center for treatment.

Damaged lower molars and periodontal disease had affected his ability to chew comfortably. He sought treatment that would address problems in both his upper and lower jaws while taking into account the time and cost involved.

Charles Gilbert (L) after receiving dental restoration at Saigon Dental Center. Photo courtesy of the clinic

At the clinic, Gilbert consulted Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tan, an implant specialist and medical director.

His treatment plan included crowns for his upper teeth and full-arch implant restoration for his lower jaw.

The procedures were selected based on his remaining teeth, periodontal health and chewing function.

The plan also had to accommodate his 10-day stay in Vietnam and the need for follow-up treatment.

Saigon Dental Centers facade. Photo courtesy of the clinic

Saigon Dental Center’s facade. Photo courtesy of the clinic

According to the clinic, the treatment used a digital implant workflow and digital smile design to plan and coordinate the procedures.

Dr. Nguyen NgocTan said international patients should understand which procedures can be completed during an initial visit and which require further appointments.

“I deeply respect the courage it takes for international patients to travel to Vietnam for restorative care. It’s not just about the numbers or the schedule; it’s about placing your trust in a team thousands of miles from home,” he said.

“Our job is to make sure they understand the entire roadmap—what we can achieve during those first 10 days and what to expect when they return home for the final phase.”

Gilbert’s 10-day stay marked the first stage of treatment. He is expected to return in about six months for fixed implant-supported teeth, subject to healing and clinical assessments.

Dental implant treatment typically involves multiple stages, with healing times varying according to a patient’s oral health, bone condition and treatment plan. Overseas patients may therefore need to arrange several visits rather than complete treatment in one trip.

Before returning to Australia, Gilbert said he was pleased to begin restoring his teeth after years of discomfort.

“Just having nice teeth. I think it’s been about 20 years since I’ve actually had a full set of teeth. It feels really nice!” he said.

Four weeks after his return, Dr. Tan contacted Gilbert to check on his recovery. Gilbert said he was happy with the appearance of his teeth.

“I’m loving my new teeth; no more hiding my smile,” he said.

His comments reflect his experience after the initial treatment, not a final clinical assessment of the implant restoration. The final stage remains subject to further healing and evaluation.

Saigon Dental Center
Address: 399/38 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Ban Co Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
License No.: 09542/HCM-GPHD
Working Time: Mon-Sat 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Scope of professional activities: Providing medical examination and treatment services, including oral health care ranging from general dentistry to advanced treatments such as implant placement and cosmetic dentistry, as approved by the Ministry of Health and issued together with the dental clinic’s operating license.

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