Why Travel for Dental Tourism?

Dental tourism is a relatively new concept. People often consider traveling to have dental work done simply because the cost of dental work in the United States is so high. Usually, patients can travel, vacation, and get their dental restoration done for significantly less than the cost of treatment in their home country.

Despite the growing trend, many people assume that dental care costs less in places like Mexico or Costa Rica because the quality of care isn't as high. Not all dentists or dental offices provide the same quality of care - which is true regardless of your country, just as not all chefs offer 5-star dining. In this article, we will look at how dental tourism works and when it can be a viable option for you.

Traveling for Dental Care

The most common reason people consider traveling for dental care is the cost. Even with a standard medical plan, the cost of prominent dental work can be prohibitive, leading people to neglect problems such as broken or missing teeth and, in turn, leading to more significant issues such as bone loss and infections.

In the case of Costa Rica, many of the costs involved in providing dental care are significantly lower, even while they offer the same or better level of care. This allows dental offices in Costa Rica to pass those savings on to their customers - savings of between 50% and 70%. With savings like that, it's easy to see why many people consider dental tourism a viable option for extensive treatments like Full Mouth Restoration or All-on-4 Dental Implants.

Savings Aren't the Only Reason!

Saving money is the most common reason to choose dental tourism, but there are other benefits. It is the chance to recuperate amidst Costa Rica's or Mexico's tropical beauty and warm climate. Many choose to combine healthcare and pleasure by escaping the harsh conditions of winter for their treatment. Exploring stunning destinations while saving money on dental care you can't afford at home is very appealing - especially if your dream destination offers the treatment you need.

How Does it Work?

The first step is to do a little research. In many cases, your smile is the first thing people will notice about you, so you want to ensure it's in good hands. Depending on the type of dental restoration you need, find a dental clinic with experienced staff in dental surgery (for dental implants) and Cosmetic Dentistry (for veneers and crowns). Look for staff accredited by associations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Read their testimonials and speak to their staff.

A professional, well-run clinic will ask you to provide dental records so that they can better assess your needs. They should be willing to do a consultation over the phone, answer questions, and offer multiple treatment options, and they should discuss the cost of your treatment openly and transparently so that you aren't surprised by extra fees later.

Once you have found a clinic you feel comfortable with and they have discussed your options, plans can be made about how long the process will take and when you need to book your trip. For example, Meza Dental offers treatments in Cancún, Mexico, and San José, Costa Rica, and our staff is dedicated to helping you make all the necessary travel arrangements - even tours - to relax and enjoy your trip.

Where to Travel for Dental Restoration

As the dental tourism industry grows, so does the list of potential destinations, generally falling into three main areas: Southeast Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Generally, people in North America visit Costa Rica, Mexico, or Colombia.

Dental Tourism Destinations in Latin America

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is famous worldwide for its advanced medical care and socialized healthcare systems. It is also home to 12 of the top 30 medical device manufacturers, providing hospitals and clinics with the newest state-of-the-art equipment. Costa Rica boasts one of Latin America's most well-educated labor forces, which is how this quiet country has leaped to the forefront of the medical and dental tourism industries.

Costa Rica has something for every traveler, from the calm relaxation and Pura Vida existence in one of only five Blue Zones worldwide to the pure adrenaline rush of a budding adventure tourism industry - a land of contrast and diversity, perfect for soaking up some sun and exploring while you recuperate.

Mexico

Mexico is the only country in Latin America that manufactures and exports more medical devices than Costa Rica. Enjoying first-class dental restoration in one of the most popular tourist destinations in the southern hemisphere is easy. Spend your extra time wandering the markets, eating delicious cuisine from street vendors, or exploring the fantastic architecture of nearby Mayan ruins. Mexico's vibrant culture is sure to please.

Colombia

Colombia is another country with low cost of living and labor costs, which allows it to run with much lower overhead costs. This has created a boom in the dental tourism industry, allowing visitors to enjoy Colombia's lush jungle setting and rich culture while they recuperate. Tour the city's exotic buildings and museums, or head into the jungle to explore coffee plantations and archaeological sites.

Start Your Smile Makeover Today!

There are many reasons to consider traveling for dental care, not the least of which is that you will return home with the confidence that a beautiful smile provides and the comfort of fully restored dental health. No one should have to live with mouth pain, and good dental health shouldn't have to take second place because of high costs. Especially when you can get top-quality care - including:

• Full-mouth restoration

• Cosmetic dentistry

• Implant dentistry

• Restorative dentistry

• All-on-X procedures

...all for less than half the cost of the same treatments in your home country. According to Forbes, in 2019, 780,000 Americans chose Dental Tourism to get affordable dental care. You can, too!

Making the Smart Choice

Meza Dental has two offices available for treatment - one in San José, Costa Rica, and one in Cancún, Mexico. Both offices offer modern equipment and well-trained, personable, English-speaking staff for all your restorative and cosmetic dentistry needs. Dr. Meza is the first accredited American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry member in Costa Rica and one of only three in Latin America.

Every treatment that Meza Dental provides is completely customized to your individual needs by one of our talented and experienced patient coordinators, who will be with you every step of the way. You can look at our smile gallery to see our results and hear testimonials from satisfied patients. Call or email Meza Dental today to talk to one of our fantastic staff members, or get your free estimate and start your smile makeover now.