
Dr. Renaat Coopman is a highly skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon with a profound expertise in traumatology, preprosthetic surgery, and facial reconstructions, particularly with an emphasis on dental occlusion and facial aesthetics. He is the Head of the Division of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at UZ Ghent, where he leads a team dedicated to providing comprehensive surgical care.
Dr. Coopman’s expertise also extends to 3D surgical planning and simulations, areas in which he actively contributes to the 3D Platform at UZ Ghent. He has a special interest in the development and application of 3D simulations, aimed at improving the precision and outcomes of maxillofacial surgeries. As part of his role, he is also involved with the cleft lip and palate team, further showcasing his commitment to improving patient care across a variety of surgical specialties.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Coopman is a postdoctoral researcher at Ghent University, focusing on the application of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy in salivary gland tumor (SGT) pathology. His research explores the use of NIR spectroscopy to study the glycosylation patterns of tumors and differentiate malignant from benign tumors. Dr. Coopman is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of medical research, particularly in the area of biochemical structures and vibrational microspectroscopy, aiming to unlock new methods for tumor diagnosis and treatment.
Price upon request
Oral diseases affect nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Common conditions such as dental caries, periodontal disease, tooth loss, oral infections, and oral cancers contribute significantly to global health burdens. As awareness of oral health grows, many patients seek advanced dental surgery options for functional restoration, infection control, and aesthetic improvement.
Belgium maintains a structured and regulated healthcare system where dental surgeons complete a comprehensive university education followed by specialized postgraduate training in areas such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, implantology, periodontology, and reconstructive procedures. Belgian dental professionals are licensed under national regulatory authorities and adhere to European Union clinical standards. Infection control protocols, sterilization practices, radiographic safety standards, and patient consent procedures follow established European guidelines.
Dental surgeons in Belgium often work within university hospitals, tertiary medical centers, or accredited private clinics. Multidisciplinary collaboration is common, particularly for complex cases involving jaw reconstruction, trauma, congenital anomalies, or medically compromised patients. Treatment planning typically includes diagnostic imaging, structured risk assessment, and patient-centered discussions about benefits and limitations.
For international patients considering dental surgery in Belgium, the healthcare infrastructure is modern and well-coordinated. Costs may vary depending on complexity, materials used, and hospital setting. Emotional and psychological support is increasingly recognized as part of comprehensive dental care, particularly for patients with dental anxiety or those undergoing major reconstructive procedures.
Overall, Belgium offers a regulated, evidence-based environment for patients seeking evaluation and treatment by experienced dental surgeons.
Constantinus Politis, MD, DDS
Specialization: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Hospital: University Hospitals Leuven (UZ Leuven)
Dr. Constantinus Politis practices oral and maxillofacial surgery at UZ Leuven, a tertiary academic center. His clinical focus includes orthognathic surgery, facial trauma management, and reconstructive jaw procedures. He is involved in multidisciplinary tumor boards for head and neck conditions. Treatment decisions are guided by radiologic imaging and structured surgical planning. His work follows European standards for maxillofacial surgical safety and postoperative care.
Vincent Malevez, MD, DDS
Specialization: Implant Dentistry and Oral Surgery
Years of Experience: 30+ years
Hospital: Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels
Dr. Vincent Malevez has extensive experience in implant-based oral rehabilitation. At Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, he focuses on complex dental implant procedures, including bone grafting when clinically indicated. His practice integrates prosthetic planning and surgical coordination. He follows evidence-based protocols for osseointegration and long-term implant stability. Patient evaluation includes assessment of bone density, systemic health, and oral hygiene status.
Reinhilde Jacobs, DDS, PhD
Specialization: Dentomaxillofacial Radiology
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Hospital: UZ Leuven
Professor Reinhilde Jacobs specializes in advanced dental imaging and radiologic assessment. At UZ Leuven, she contributes to diagnostic evaluation for implant planning, pathology detection, and surgical guidance. Her work supports precise treatment planning using cone-beam computed tomography and digital imaging systems. She emphasizes radiation safety and appropriate imaging selection based on clinical need. Diagnostic accuracy plays a central role in reducing procedural risks.
Jean-Paul De Clercq, DDS
Specialization: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Years of Experience: 20+ years
Hospital: AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende
Dr. Jean-Paul De Clercq practices oral and maxillofacial surgery within a multidisciplinary hospital setting. His experience includes dentoalveolar surgery, cyst removal, and management of oral infections. Surgical decisions are based on comprehensive evaluation and radiographic confirmation. He follows structured preoperative assessment protocols. Postoperative monitoring is tailored to patient recovery and systemic health considerations.
Patrick Politis, DDS
Specialization: Orthognathic and Reconstructive Jaw Surgery
Years of Experience: 20+ years
Hospital: University Hospitals Leuven (UZ Leuven)
Dr. Patrick Politis focuses on corrective jaw surgery and facial skeletal reconstruction. His work includes treatment planning for patients with congenital jaw discrepancies and functional bite disorders. At UZ Leuven, cases are discussed within multidisciplinary surgical teams. Preoperative orthodontic coordination is often required for optimal alignment. Surgical risks, including nerve sensitivity and variability in healing, are clearly discussed with patients.
Philippe Lambrechts, DDS, PhD
Specialization: Restorative Dentistry and Adhesive Techniques
Years of Experience: 30+ years
Hospital: KU Leuven School of Dentistry
Professor Philippe Lambrechts is involved in restorative dental techniques and minimally invasive adhesive procedures. His academic role at KU Leuven supports evidence-based restorative care. Clinical work includes the management of tooth wear, the provision of structural restorations, and biomaterial research. Treatment planning emphasizes preservation of healthy tooth structure when possible. Patients are informed about material longevity and maintenance requirements.
Guy Willems, DDS, PhD
Specialization: Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Anomalies
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Hospital: UZ Leuven
Professor Guy Willems focuses on pediatric dental conditions and developmental anomalies. His clinical approach includes early diagnosis and preventive strategies. At UZ Leuven, he works within interdisciplinary teams when surgical intervention is required for younger patients. Behavioral management and sedation options are carefully evaluated. Treatment decisions consider growth patterns and long-term oral development.
Jacques Van Steenberghe, DDS, PhD
Specialization: Periodontology and Implantology
Years of Experience: 35+ years
Hospital: KU Leuven School of Dentistry
Professor Jacques Van Steenberghe has longstanding experience in periodontology and implant research. His work has contributed to understanding peri-implant tissue health and long-term maintenance. Clinical protocols emphasize infection control and structured follow-up. Patient suitability for implant surgery is evaluated based on periodontal stability and systemic factors. Ongoing monitoring is considered essential for long-term oral health.
The dental surgeons listed above are provided for informational purposes only and do not represent rankings or endorsements.
| Consultation Type | Estimated Cost Range |
| Dental Surgeons consultation | $120-$350 |
Note: Costs are approximate and provided for general guidance only. Prices vary depending on the healthcare provider, hospital type, city, and consultation format (in-person or remote). Diagnostic tests, imaging, or additional evaluations are not included. Final fees are determined by the provider after an individual clinical assessment and may be affected by currency fluctuations.
Choosing a dental surgeon in another country requires careful thought. You may want to understand how safety standards, communication, and treatment coordination are managed before making decisions about dental surgery abroad. Taking time to review credentials and hospital systems can help you feel more informed.
➤ Availability of English-speaking medical staff and professional medical translators in many facilities
➤ Specialized clinics that manage a high volume of international patients
➤ Government regulations and oversight mechanisms supporting medical tourism safety and international patient protection
➤ Structured hospital documentation, patient-safety protocols, and informed consent practices
For international patients, practical considerations should be reviewed. Visa or entry requirements depend on your nationality and intended duration of stay. For complex oral or jaw surgery, a postoperative stay of 7-14 days may be recommended to monitor healing. In major cities such as Brussels and Leuven, multilingual communication is common, but outside large centers, language differences may occur. Planning follow-up care with your local dentist or oral surgeon after returning home is important to ensure continuity and monitor healing.
Patients considering Dental Surgeons care in Belgium can share their medical records and dental imaging with Best Clinic Abroad to receive coordinated guidance on consultation options and structured support for treatment planning.
Do I need visa assistance to travel to Belgium for dental surgery?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Many patients from non-European countries require a Schengen visa for medical travel. You should contact the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country for updated requirements. Hospitals may provide appointment confirmation letters to support visa applications, but approval decisions are made by immigration authorities.
Can I communicate in English with dental surgeons in Belgium?
In many university hospitals and larger clinics, dental surgeons and staff speak English, particularly in Brussels and Leuven. International patient departments may assist with coordination. However, language availability can vary depending on the region. If you are concerned, you may request interpreter services before your appointment to ensure clear communication.
Is it possible to have an online consultation before traveling for dental treatment?
Yes, you can arrange an online consultation through Best Clinic Abroad. You may securely share your dental reports, X-rays, or CT scans for preliminary review. This allows you to understand potential treatment pathways and required diagnostics before making travel arrangements. Final clinical decisions are made only after in-person examination and comprehensive assessment.
How long should I stay in Belgium after undergoing dental surgery?
The required stay depends on the complexity of the procedure. Minor surgical procedures may require only a short stay, while jaw reconstruction or multiple implant placements may require monitoring for 7-14 days. Your treating surgeon will provide individualized guidance based on your healing progress and medical history.
Will I need follow-up care after returning to my home country?
Yes, follow-up care is important after many dental surgical procedures. You should obtain a detailed treatment summary, medication instructions, and imaging records before leaving Belgium. Coordination with your local dentist or oral surgeon helps ensure proper healing and early detection of any concerns.
Disclaimer
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed medical specialist based on individual clinical evaluation.