Most people come to the south coast for the beaches. Matara is a working town in the middle of it all, with Mirissa and Weligama to the west, Galle further along the coast and Tangalle to the east. That makes it an easy base for dental appointments that fit around a holiday.

Getting here

The Southern Expressway links Colombo with Matara, so the drive from the airport side of the island is straightforward. Buses and the coastal train also run to Matara. Once you are on the south coast, Mirissa is a short tuk-tuk ride from the clinic.

Build your trip around the treatment

Plan the dental work first, then fill the gaps:

• Day one: consultation, X-rays and your written plan.

• Treatment days: keep them light. Book the beach for the afternoon if the dentist says it is fine.

• After surgery: keep a quiet day. Skip snorkelling, surfing and long boat trips until you have been checked.

• Last visit: leave a day or two before your flight in case something needs adjusting.

Things to do between appointments

• Mirissa: beaches, Coconut Tree Hill and whale-watching boat trips, which run mainly in the drier months between roughly November and April.

• Weligama: a long, gentle bay that is popular for beginner surf lessons.

• Galle: the old fort, a walk along the ramparts and plenty of cafés.

• Matara: the Star Fort, the Paravi Duwa island temple and the beach by the river mouth.

With more time, the hill country around Ella and the national parks to the east make good side trips.

Which treatments fit a short trip?

Whitening, check-ups, fillings and many root canals can be done within a week or two. Crowns usually need two visits a few days apart. Implants need healing time between placing the implant and fitting the final crown, so most people plan two separate trips.

Send us your dates

WhatsApp 070 224 3333 with where you are staying, your travel dates and any X-rays. We will tell you what can realistically be done in that time. K9 Dental Hospital, Akuressa Road, Isadeen Town, Matara.