Orthodontic treatment in Porto can be a smart choice even if you live outside Portugal. Many people based in France, Switzerland, and other European countries are already doing it—because with the right plan, it feels normal and doable.
Why more people are choosing Porto from abroad
Living in another country no longer means you must postpone improving your smile. Flights within Europe are often short, remote work is common, and many patients already travel to Porto for family visits or holidays.
At the same time, patients often look for three things: clear planning, a clinic they can trust, and a city where the whole experience is easy to manage. Porto fits well into that reality.
The 3 pillars that make distance treatment possible
A successful cross-border orthodontic plan is not about “guessing” when you can return. Instead, it is built around structure and safety.
1) Accessibility
Porto can offer a strong value-for-money balance, especially when you compare the full experience: consultation quality, treatment options, and how easy it is to schedule visits around travel.
In addition, a well-designed plan can reduce unnecessary appointments, which helps you manage time and travel costs.
2) Quality of care
Choosing orthodontic care abroad only makes sense if you feel confident in the clinical standards and the communication.
For that reason, the treatment should be based on proper records (photos, scans, and X-rays when needed), a clear diagnosis, and a plan that you understand from day one.
3) A structured schedule with safely spaced visits
When you live abroad, the calendar is part of the treatment.
A good plan typically includes:
- Key in-person visits that truly require you to be at the clinic
- Longer, safe intervals between appointments when your case allows it
- Clear guidance on what to monitor between visits
This is how many international patients can move forward without feeling “stuck” to frequent travel.
Who is a good candidate when living abroad?
Many cases can work well with an international routine, but the ideal approach depends on your needs and your availability.
You may be a good fit if you:
- Can travel to Porto for the main milestones of treatment
- Prefer a predictable schedule
- Are comfortable following instructions between visits
- Want a plan designed around your travel windows
On the other hand, some complex cases may require closer in-person follow-up. If that happens, your orthodontist should tell you early, so you can decide with full clarity.
How the process works (step by step)
Here is a simple view of how orthodontic care is usually organized for patients who live outside Portugal.
Step 1: First evaluation in Porto
This visit focuses on understanding your goals and checking your bite, alignment, and overall oral health.
Whenever needed, the clinic will request or take the right records to plan safely.
Step 2: Your treatment plan and timeline
Next, you receive a clear plan, including:
- Recommended option (for example, aligners or braces)
- Expected duration (with realistic factors that can change timing)
- Visit frequency and which appointments must be in person
- What you will do between visits
Because you live abroad, planning is done calmly and strategically, so it matches your travel possibilities.
Step 3: Start of treatment (the “setup” appointment)
This is often a key in-person visit.
Depending on the option chosen, it may include placing braces or delivering aligners and instructions. It is also when many patients prefer to schedule extra time in Porto, just in case small adjustments are needed.
Step 4: Follow-ups with more space between visits
Follow-up appointments are planned to be efficient.
When appropriate, the clinic can combine check-ups and adjustments in a single visit. As a result, you can keep progress steady while traveling less often.
Step 5: Finishing and retention
After alignment is complete, retention keeps your result stable.
This phase is essential, so it should also be planned around your travel schedule.
Remote check-ins: what can (and cannot) be done at a distance
Remote follow-up can help with guidance and peace of mind between visits.
Often possible remotely:
- Sharing photos and updates to confirm things look on track
- Questions about discomfort in the first days after an adjustment
- Tips to improve routine and reduce irritation
Not possible remotely (usually needs an in-person visit):
- Repairs (for example, a broken bracket)
- Certain bite adjustments
- Clinical decisions that require direct examination
A good plan explains these limits upfront, so you always know what to expect.
What if something happens while you are abroad?
Small issues can happen in orthodontics anywhere. The key is having a clear “what to do next” plan.
Common situations and typical actions:
- Discomfort: follow the guidance provided and contact the clinic if pain is strong or persistent.
- Lost aligner: you may be advised to move to the previous or next aligner, depending on your case.
- Broken bracket or wire: you may need a local dentist for a temporary fix, then schedule the next visit in Porto.
Importantly, you should never feel alone during treatment. Clear communication makes the difference.
Planning your Porto visits (simple travel checklist)
To make each trip count, it helps to plan ahead.
Before traveling:
- Confirm your appointment time and expected duration
- Ask if any exams are needed before the visit
- Share your travel dates so the clinic can plan efficiently
During the visit:
- Review progress and next steps
- Confirm the next appointment window
- Ask what changes are normal and which signs mean you should contact the clinic
Frequently asked questions
How many times do I need to go to Porto?
It depends on your case and the treatment option. However, many plans can be organized around key milestones, with safely spaced visits in between.
Are aligners better if I live abroad?
Aligners can be easier to manage for many international patients because they often require fewer in-person adjustments. Still, the best choice depends on your bite, goals, and discipline.
Is it safe to space appointments?
It can be safe when spacing is planned based on your specific case and when you know what to monitor between visits. For general background on orthodontic care and what orthodontists do, you can also read the American Association of Orthodontists information page.
Do you treat patients from France and Switzerland?
Yes, many clinics in Porto—including ours—have experience planning cases for patients who live in France, Switzerland, and other European countries.
Next steps: book your evaluation
If you live abroad and want a plan that fits your travel routine, the next step is an in-person evaluation in Porto.
You can also learn more about our orthodontic approach here: Orthodontics in Porto.
To schedule your evaluation and discuss your travel dates, talk to us on WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+351926533304
