Is dental work too expensive? It doesn’t have to be. HebeDoc is a trusted resource for thousands of dental patients. We exist to help you find top-notch treatments at affordable pricing.
Have you heard of dental tourism? Are you curious about how it works and how much you can save? Or you might be planning a trip to Mexico for dental work, and you’re wondering what to expect. Whatever the case, traveling abroad for dental work can be a great option for anyone needing quality dental work at a much more affordable price.
Here are 49 essential insights to help you make an informed decision about your dental.
1. Is Mexico safe for dental work?:
There is a lot of misinformation regarding the safety of Mexican dental tourism. Each year, hundreds of thousands of US patients receive high-quality dental work in Mexico. If you know what dentists to see, it’s very safe. While parts of Mexico are not recommended for tourists, border towns such as Los Algodones and popular tourist destinations such as Cancun are safe and cater to foreign dental patients.
We closely monitor locations where HebeDoc approved dentists operate. HebeDoc only recommends dentists located in areas safe for US patients to travel to.
2. Will I get quality dental implants from a highly-trained dentist in Mexico?
This depends entirely on which dentist you see. HebeDoc’s most important commitment to patients is that of a trusted resource, connecting you to top quality dentists maintaining a track record of high-quality treatment.
Unfortunately, as dental tourism has become popular in the last two decades, many popup “dentists” are not qualified to practice dentistry. This can give dental work in Mexico an unfairly negative reputation. If you go to a licensed, experienced dentist, dentists vetted through HebeDoc’s multi step verification process, expect to receive high-quality work and save a lot of money.
3. Is saving thousands on dental work in Mexico typical?:
The national average cost for a dental implant in the US is $3,200 to $7,600; in Mexico, it’s $1400 to $1800. A full set of traditional dentures costs up to $5,000 in the U.S. and $600 in Mexico. Need major dental work? High-quality dental work is available through HebeDoc where patients, on average, save 50%-75%. Expect to save $2,500 or more with a single tooth implant and crown alone.
4. Are dental implants in Mexico affordable?
Prices vary widely, in any country, including the U.S. When comparing prices, be sure you understand what you’re paying for and what you are getting. Not all dentists use high quality dental materials, and not all doctors are equal. Regardless of what treatment or procedure, be sure you’re comparing apples to apples.
5. Can HebeDoc provide dental estimates to compare with other quotes?
Absolutely, and we encourage our patients to do so. The better you understand your options, the easier it will be to make an informed decision. Remember–compare apples to apples. Thousands of patients have trusted HebeDoc affiliated dentists to find the best dental work at the most affordable price. Remember, the lowest price isn’t always the best price. The best price is the lowest price with the highest quality work.
6. Do the Mexican dentists and staff speak English?
Yes, expect fluent, English-speaking dentists and staff. HebeDoc affiliated dentists specialize in treating American and European dental tourists.
7. Do dental offices in Mexico use the same hygienic and sterilization techniques as American dentists?
Yes, you can expect HebeDoc approved dentists to follow strict hygienic and sterilization techniques. We make our own site visits to the dentists we recommend to assure patients each dental practice meets our standards; high hygienic standards are imperative. The safety and health of our patients have always been a top priority for HebeDoc. Read our testimonials and patient reviews to find out what our customers are saying.
8. Do Mexican offices use high-tech equipment?
Yes, all HebeDoc affiliated dentists are well equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment–CT scans, digital X-ray machines, 3D cone beam digital imaging, and sophisticated ZirkonZahn systems to produce precise dental prostheses.
9. Is a passport required for dental treatment in Mexico?
Crossing into Mexico in Los Algodones and Tijuana, does not require any documents; however, crossing back from Mexico through a U.S. border does. Contrary to this law, since Americans have been crossing Mexico’s northern border for dental work, you can usually reenter the U.S. with a valid driver’s license and a copy of your birth certificate.
10. Is a visa required for Mexican dental treatments?
No. A passport is sufficient. For travel to Cancun, a valid passport is required.
11. Are dental implants more painful than a tooth extraction?
All surgical procedures involve a certain degree of discomfort. Patients generally experience mild discomfort once the anesthesia wears off. The pain level also depends on whether it is a simple tooth implant or a bone graft procedure.
12. What about water filtration systems?
Worried about getting sick from drinking water in Mexico? HebeDoc approved dental offices use filtered water to keep you safe and bottled water is available.
13. Does lower dental cost in Mexico mean lower quality?
HebeDoc never compromises health and you shouldn’t have to either. Higher costs does not always equal higher quality. Lower living costs, lower operational overhead (rent, salaries) and less student loan debt allow dentists in Mexico to provide affordable treatment options.
From porcelain crowns to metal posts and dentures, HebeDoc approved dentists use the same materials you’ll find, had you received dental work in the U.S.
Note: not all dentists in Mexico use the same, high-quality materials. We can save you thousands of dollars on dental work but HebeDoc approved dentists will never cut corners by using low-quality materials.
14. Is traveling to Mexico for dental work common?
Hundreds of thousands of Americans cross the border into Mexico (and other foreign countries) for dental work yearly, saving thousands on affordable dentistry, ease of scheduling, reliable work with faster turnaround times.
15. Is it easy to access dental work in Mexico?
The most popular locations for dental tourism are Mexico, Turkey, Thailand, Costa Rica, and India. For Americans, Mexico is the most convenient option. Locations such as Southern California, Phoenix and Las Vegas are accessible by car to border towns such as Los Algodones and Tijuana.
16. Why do I need a referral service for dental treatment in Mexico?
Before making an appointment, it’s important to go through a reputable agency or do thorough research on your own. An independent referral agency such as HebeDoc has thoroughly vetted clinics, personally toured each dentist’s facility before sending patients abroad for dental or medical work.
HebeDoc can answer questions, offer advice/recommendations, and are your point of contact when needed. HebeDoc advocates on your behalf, making sure everything is going as planned. Our referral services are always free to you.
18. Is getting dental implants in Mexico painful?
Most dentists in Mexico offer anesthesia options like in the U.S., including full sedation. Our HebeDoc partner dental offices have trained anesthesiologists on staff. Performed under local or general anesthesia removes pain, and following the procedure, patients report mild pain levels.
19. Do Mexican dentists use the same U.S. approved dentistry materials as U.S. dentists?
No. This is another reason you will want to work with a HebeDoc approved dentist. From porcelain crowns to metal posts and dentures, our approved dentists use the same materials you received undergoing dental work in the U.S.
20. What if I need more than one specialist?
Dentists we work with, are trained in all industry specialty fields, utilizing the latest diagnostic equipment. Unlike in the US where you must set up appointments and travel to different dental offices for extractions, implants or other treatments, multiple specialists work out of the same office with many of our dentists in Mexico.
21. Can I get the same dental procedures in Mexico?
Yes. You can get all the same dental treatment options in Mexico as you can in the U.S.
22. Why is Mexico such a popular destination for hundreds of thousands of senior Americans each year?
Seniors typically live on a fixed income and regrettably, delay much-needed dental treatment due to high costs. Seniors choose Mexico as their dental destination because doing so offers savings of up to 75% on major dental procedures– dental crowns, implants, and root canals. Our testimonials confirm patient satisfaction who have traveled to Mexico for dental treatment.
23. Can I get cosmetic dental procedures in Mexico?
Absolutely. The doctors who do veneers, whitening, and bonding are specially trained and certified in cosmetic procedures. You will typically save quite a lot of money on cosmetic procedures.
24. Are other dental specialists available in Mexico?
Yes. Appointments with Orthodontist, Endodontist, or Implantologist, may all be scheduled in the same visit, in the same office.
25. As an American, will I be treated well in Mexican dental offices?
Expect to be treated with the highest level of respect. Dentistry is the lifeblood of towns such as Los Algodones, (Molar City) where hundreds of dentists operate, taking care of American’s dental needs affordability.
26. Do dental services in Mexico come with a guarantee?
Not always. HebeDoc’s do. Our vetted-approved dentists guarantee all of their work for several years. If something is not right, you may have it corrected at no additional cost. This will not be the case with every Mexican dental office. HebeDoc is the only booking service offering to cover any unexpected travel expenses.
27. Should I bring cash when traveling to Mexico for dental work?
It’s always a good idea to have a small amount of cash when traveling to Mexico. Dental services are paid in either cash or with credit, but you’ll likely want cash for incidentals such as lunch. Most tourist destinations and areas that see many Americans take credit cards and typically U.S. dollars. We don’t suggest carrying a large sum of cash.
28. Can I get medications in Mexico after my dental work?
Yes. Many Americans fill non-narcotic prescriptions in Mexico. If your dentist prescribes medication, he will direct you to a Mexican pharmacy to fill your prescription at a greatly reduced rate before heading home. Savings can be substantial.
29. How many trips to Mexico will I need for my dental work?
Anticipate any extensive dental work requiring a couple of visits. Even so, expect costs to be much lower than if you paid for the same work in the U.S. A HebeDoc team member will advise you on the travel requirements when discussing your proposed treatment plan.
30. How will I find my way around once I arrive in Mexico?
Local transportation is complimentary for patients. So too might be transport from Southern California and other drivable destinations. We will suggest hotels and AirBNBs popular with our patients. Transportation to and from your hotel to the dental office is also complementary. Every detail to make your trip easy, safe, and comfortable will be taken care of. That’s why so many people trust HebeDoc.
31. What about travel insurance?
Since dental tourism often includes flights and hotels, it’s a good idea to be prepared with travel insurance. Learn more about HebeDoc’s travel insurance.
32. Can I make a vacation out of my dental tourism to Mexico?
If you’re going to be a “dental tourist,” you might as well enjoy the “tourist” part. So whether you lounge on the beach in Cancun or take a day trip to a border town, you’ll get to enjoy the festive Mexican culture, food, and people.
33. Will my dental insurance cover my treatment in Mexico?
In some cases, yes. Check with your insurance provider before traveling and bring copies of any forms required for claims with you.
34. Is it easier to drive or fly to Mexico?
For those living in Southern California, Arizona, and Las Vegas, driving probably makes more sense. For Cancun, direct flights from many U.S. cities exist. Working with a dental referral company, we can help you with these details.
35. Can I get a price estimate before I go to Mexico for dental work?
Yes. Always get an estimate before traveling. To avoid surprises, share a digital copy of your x-rays so the dentist understands the dental work required.
Every HebeDoc affiliated dentist offers a free price quote. X-rays, 3-D cone beams and CT scans are used. Each patient’s desired outcome and most importantly, an in-office examination will be used to provide a detailed estimate. Anticipate price quotes within 10 to 15 percent accuracy. The in-person examination will determine the best course of treatment.
36. Are Americans happy with their dental treatment in Mexico?
According to a report commissioned by Families U.S.A., a Washington advocacy group for health-work issues, “90% [feel] the dental work received in Mexico was good to excellent.” Our own reviews show pleased clients exceeding a rate of 97%.
37. How are high-quality dental implants so affordable in Mexico?
This is explained above (salary scale, cost of living, rents, staffing costs). Further, dental school is subsidized by the government in Mexico. This contributes to lower costs and dentists who may focus on their schooling, instead of working multiple jobs while taking classes.
A typical U.S. dentist leaves dental school $308,000 in debt; this is the average. How does he/she pay those loans back? You guest it, by charging you more.
38. What’s included in HebeDoc’s referral services?
We’re here to help you find the best dental office and oversee you getting dental work in Mexico. If needed, we’re your ambassador— using our strong relationships to advocate on your behalf. Of course, you’re responsible for your travel to/from the destination city. If you need hotel accommodations, we can help with recommendations and lodging partners to save you money and assure you will be comfortable at a good rate. Local transfers to/from airports, border pick up and drop offs are complimentary.
39. What if I can’t afford the procedure I want?
Dental work can be expensive and there are options: The procedure may spillover into a new calendar year to benefit from insurance deductibles. Personal loans, health care flexible spending accounts and medical credit cards are other options.
HebeDoc is here to help you collect accurate information to make an informed decision. We help educate and guide you—and there’s never a fee for our referral services; dental offices compensate us directly.
40. How important is it to vet your dentist or dental referral agency?
The value of a reputable referral agency is crucial. First, make sure you are going to a trained, reputable dentist. Second, read reviews and do your research. A reputable dental referral agency is happy to show you their patient testimonials. HebeDoc staff make on-site visits to all dental offices within our program. We interview doctors and staff, review their credentials, tour facilities, observe sterilization procedures, and inspect dental equipment and supplies. Most importantly, we monitor the satisfaction of our patients to assure the offices we recommend meet our stringent standards.
41. What is the cost of a single tooth implant in Mexico?
A single tooth implant will cost you significantly less in Mexico than it would in the U.S., and you can save up to 75%…
42. How do I know I can trust HebeDoc and what you tell me?
Read the hundreds of reviews and feel free to do independent research about HebeDoc Dentists. We’re not sending patients to hundreds of unvetted dental offices everywhere—we only work with a handful of dental offices we know and trust.
We screen patients, answer questions, and guide you through the entire process. We also use the same dental offices for our own treatment.
43. How do HebeDoc’s affiliated dental offices in Mexico and Turkey compare to U.S. dental offices?
The dentists’ offices we work with are modern, technologically up to date and clean. Patients are pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness, quality, and comfort they find in Mexico and Turkey.
44. Who does the actual dental procedures in your offices?
In the U.S., dental assistants often do most of the procedures, and the dentist only does the final touches or more advanced procedures. With our affiliated dentists in Mexico, all procedures are done by trained, experienced dentists.
45. How do I get started with HebeDoc Dentists?
- Provide us with your contact information.
- Email dental x-rays, or a Cone Beam CT scan records.
- Your case will be forwarded for an initial assessment by a dentist.
- We will email a cost estimate.
- You speak with one of our patient care coordinators.
- For extensive dental work, a TeleDentistry conference consultation with your dentist will be arranged.
46. How affordable is a full-mouth dental implant in Mexico?
In Mexico, you can cut down on the cost of a single tooth implant, so imagine the savings on a full-mouth dental implant. But cheaper implants can also compromise quality, which is unacceptable for HebeDoc. Our elite group of dental offices provide affordable and safe procedures.
47. How do I decide which location in Mexico to choose?
There are pros and cons to different locations, but the quality of dental care is equally comparable. If you live close to a border town in the southern states or just don’t want to travel internationally, our dentists in Tijuana and Los Algodones are both great options. Interested in adding a tropical vacation to your travel plans? If so, our Cancun dental office is perfect.
48. Can I get additional medical or cosmetic services in Mexico?
Yes! Take advantage of other medical services, IVF, hair transplants, plastic surgery, medical weight loss and stem cell treatments are all available.
49. Can I bring a friend or family member to my dental appointment?
Yes. If you’re uncertain about traveling abroad for dental care or just want to be accompanied, we encourage you to bring a friend or family member.
50. Have any other questions for us?
Reach out to us. We are happy to answer any of your questions.
Dr. Carrasco
MEDICAL REVIEWER
Dr. Carrasco Graduated dental school in 1981 from the U.A.C.J. Since 2005 he has specialized in Prosthodontic and Oral Implantology. He is a member of American Dental Association (ADA), a fellow of the Mexican Dental Association, The American Society of Osseointegration and an associate fellow of The International Congress of Oral Implantologists,
Dr. Carrasco has completed continuing education courses at prestigious U.S. universities such as Loma Linda University and New York University. He was the Former President of the College of Dental Surgeons, Former professor of undergraduate and graduate of the Universidad Autonoma de Ciudad Juarez.
Who Gets Dental Work Done through HebeDoc?
Patients in need of veneers, dentures, implants, root canals, tooth extraction, crowns,
choose HebeDoc to locate top ranking dentists abroad.
Your Teeth and HebeDoc
HebeDoc will assist you in finding the right – thoroughly vetted — dentists,
