Dental implants are one of the most common reasons people travel to Vietnam for dental care. The treatment is life-changing when done well: patients can eat, speak and smile with confidence again. When done poorly, problems can appear months or years later, often after the patient has returned home.
That is why the most important decision is not which city or clinic, but which implant dentist. This guide explains what separates the best implant dentists from the rest, and introduces one specialist in Ho Chi Minh City who is well regarded by international patients.
Why the dentist matters more than the clinic
An implant is a small titanium root placed in the jawbone. Its long-term success depends on decisions made before and during surgery: the implant position, angle and depth, whether bone is sufficient, and how the final teeth will load the implant when you bite. These are clinical judgements, and they come down to the training and experience of the person holding the drill.
A beautiful clinic with an inexperienced surgeon is a risk. An experienced surgeon with good planning tools is the safest choice.
6 qualities of the best implant dentist for international patients
1. Deep, specific experience
Ask how many implants the dentist has placed and how many full-arch cases they have treated. Experience with complex cases means they can handle surprises during surgery.
2. Advanced training
Look for postgraduate or international implant training, membership of implant societies, and ongoing education.
3. Digital planning
The best implant dentists plan with a 3D cone beam CT scan and often use computer-designed surgical guides for accurate placement.
4. Honest case selection
A good dentist will tell you when you need bone grafting, when All-on-4 is suitable and when it is not, and when an implant is not the best option at all.
5. Clear communication
International patients must understand the plan, risks and aftercare. Direct communication with the dentist in English is essential.
6. A plan that fits your trip
Implant treatment may need one visit or two. The dentist should explain the timeline before you book flights.
Recommended: Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tan, Saigon Dental Center
For international patients considering implants in Vietnam, Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tan is an implant dentist who meets all six criteria.
Experience
Dr. Tan has more than 15 years of clinical experience and has placed over 7,000 dental implants, including nearly 1,500 All-on-4, All-on-6 and full-arch cases. He is the Clinical Director of Saigon Dental Center in Ho Chi Minh City.
Training and recognition
He completed advanced implant training in the United States and Brazil and has participated in the Academy of Osseointegration Annual Meeting in Seattle. In 2026 he was named Outstanding Dentist Leader of Asia at the ASIA Top Brand Award.
Digital, minimally invasive approach
Dr. Tan plans each case using CBCT 3D imaging and intraoral scanning, then places implants with 3D surgical guides. In suitable cases this allows flapless surgery, with less swelling and faster healing.
Range of solutions
His clinical focus covers single implants, immediate implants, All-on-4 and All-on-6,… for severe bone loss, and bone grafting. This range means he can recommend the option that fits the patient, rather than fitting every patient to one technique.
Communication with international patients
Dr. Tan discusses treatment directly in English. Patients can send X-rays before travelling, and he reviews them to prepare a provisional plan and timeline.
Questions to ask before choosing an implant dentist
- How many implants like mine have you placed?
- Will my surgery be planned with a 3D scan and guide?
- Do I need bone grafting or a sinus lift?
- Which implant brand will you use?
- How many trips to Vietnam will I need?
- What follow-up is available after I return home?
Combining treatment with a trip to Central Vietnam
Many patients finish their implant surgery in Ho Chi Minh City, then take the short flight to Da Nang for a few quiet days by the beach or in Hoi An. Ask your dentist which days are free and when it is safe to swim or travel.
Contact
- Saigon Dental Center – 378B Vo Van Tan, Ban Co Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
- WhatsApp: +84 973 199 986
The best implant dentist is the one whose experience, planning and honesty match your case. For international patients, Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tan is a specialist well worth contacting.
