Dental Tourism in Moldova: Economic Catalyst, Medical Considerations, and Broader Tourism Development Potential

Elisabetta Lazzari and Edoardo Bianco ()
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Elisabetta Lazzari: Dental Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
Edoardo Bianco: Dental Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy

Tourism and Hospitality, 2025, vol. 6, issue 4, 1-11

Abstract: This paper examines the burgeoning dental tourism sector in the Republic of Moldova, highlighting its significant economic impact and patient-related considerations. Driven primarily by competitive pricing, the perceived quality of dental treatments, and strategic geographical advantages, Moldova has emerged as a prominent destination for international dental patients, particularly from Western Europe, the UK, Ireland, and increasingly from North America. While this sector provides a crucial economic impetus to one of Europe’s most economically challenged nations, contributing significantly to (Gross Domestic Product) GDP and generating crucial employment opportunities, it also presents inherent risks related to treatment quality, potential complications, and challenges with follow-up care. This study integrates market trends, academic literature, and patient experience insights to offer a comprehensive overview of Moldova’s and Eastern Europe’s unique position in the global dental tourism landscape. Employing a narrative synthesis of diverse data points from market research reports, academic literature, and economic indicators, our findings reveal dental tourism as a vital economic driver for Moldova, fueled by competitive costs and improving standards. However, the sector also necessitates careful consideration of inherent risks, including potential complications from expedited treatment schedules and challenges with follow-up care.

Keywords: dental tourism; economics; medical tourism; Moldova (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Z3 Z30 Z31 Z32 Z33 Z38 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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