Going to the dentist in Mexico is one of the great open secrets for getting high quality, affordable care.

Dental care in the United States and Canada has become more expensive every year, and dentists in Mexico have positioned themselves to offer great care at a fraction of the price.

Snowbirds flood across the border during the Winter. Locals in San Diego often see their dentist in Tijuana. Retirees from Phoenix make the drive to Los Algodones (“Molar City”).

It is estimated that Mexico caters to more than 1 million medical tourists every year, and with this guide you will be prepared to join their ranks!

Mexico is famous for its picture perfect beaches, rich culture, and delicious food. Unsurprisingly, the most popular destinations for Medical Tourists are in hot spots like Playa del Carmen, Mexico City, and Tijuana.

Going to the dentist is nobody’s idea of a good time, but treating yourself to a cool dip in a cenote, taking a bite out of a street taco, or thinking about how much money and time you just saved is sure to soothe any lingering aches or pains.

Why Should I Visit a Dentist in Mexico?

It is estimated that up to a million Americans travel to Mexico for every year for care. Here’s why:

1. Highly Trained Dentists

Mexico is home to over 83 dental schools. Dentists in Mexico have a rigorous education consisting of a 4-5 year curriculum culminating in an undergraduate general exam. Upon completion of this exam, graduates of public universities must perform one year of social service in under served communities before they are awarded their Doctor of Dental Surgery. Furthermore, dentists who want to specialize must undergo another two-year degree program. Dental tourism is sustainable in Mexico due to the high standards of care.

2. Affordable, Transparent Prices

Unlike in the United States and Canada, patients have access to clear and transparent prices that are not hidden behind a paid consultation. Travelers typically save 50-70% off of what they were quoted back home.

3. English Speaking Providers

In order to attract international patients, dental clinics have hired English speaking dentists and administrators. A language barrier will not get in the way of your care.

4. Travel is Easy and Affordable

Mexico is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Traveling to Mexico is affordable by land or air, and getting around is easy relative to other destinations. Canada and the US have large numbers of daily flights to major Mexican cities.

How Good Is the Quality of Dental Care in Mexico?

Dental tourism in Mexico has sustained for decades because the standard of care is high and the prices are affordable.

Just like back home, clinics vary in quality. By taking the time to do your research, you can find a provider that offers outstanding care at an affordable price.

How Do I Find a Great Dental Clinic in Mexico?

It is important to do your research and choose a clinic that you are comfortable with. Below are some methods we use to find outstanding providers:

First, we evaluate a clinic’s online reviews across platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Once we find a clinic that appears to have a great online reputation, we do a site visit.

During the site visit we assess sanitation based on the Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention’s (OSAP) Traveler’s Guide to Safe Dental Care. We also document the technology a clinic is using and note if providers are continuing their education. We have a bias towards clinics with in-house dental labs to ensure a smooth and timely outcome.

Finally, we verify the credentials of dentists against the Mexican Government’s National Register of Professionals.

Clinics in our network are members of prestigious organizations like the American Dental Association and the Better Business Bureau and are held to a high standard. We also keep a close touch on patient experiences over time to ensure that a restoration that was good on day 1 is holding up on day 365 and beyond.

With an appropriate amount of research, you can find outstanding dental clinics in Mexico.

How Do I Find Great Dentists in Mexico?

Traveling for medical care means you have the luxury of choice. Here is how to find the best dentist for your particular case.

Look For Experienced Dentists From Top Schools

According to El Universal’s List of top dental schools, the top 3 Mexican dental schools are:

1. The National Autonomous University of Mexico
2. The Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon
3. The Autonomous University of Guadalajara

Pay special attention to dentists in Mexico with these schools under their belt!

Check Credentials

You can check a professional’s credentials using the National Register of Professionals by entering their full name or the number of their professional identification number, both of which are typically available.

Request Referrals, View Testimonials, and View Portfolios

Great clinics are proud of their work, and their patients are happy to share their results! Check out testimonials and before and after photos to get an idea about the quality of a clinic.

Good news! You can easily compare dentists in Mexico on our site! We’ve done the leg work, and all of the relevant information is at your fingertips. Below is an example of one of over one hundred dentist profiles listed on Apollo Medical Travel.

How Much Can I Save By Going to a Dentist in Mexico?

Travelers who get their dental care in Mexico as opposed to the United States or Canada typically save 50-70% on their care.

While prices vary by location, we’ve included a cost breakdown for our 5 most commonly performed procedures below:

Crowns
Average Price in the US: $1,500 USD
Average Price in Mexico: $350 USD
Savings: 77% Off – $1,150 in Savings!

Veneers
Average Price in the US: $1,100 USD
Average Price in Mexico: $350 USD
Savings: 68% Off – $750 in Savings!

Will I Need Auto Insurance If I Am Driving In Mexico?

Most American and Canadian auto insurance plans do not offer coverage in Mexico. Purchasing coverage is relatively inexpensive and can be purchased through companies including Geico, Allstate, and Progressive.

If you are involved in a traffic accident in Mexico, each party must provide proof of valid insurance or financial responsibility.

Is My Driver’s License Valid In Mexico?

Can I Use My Insurance?

Most of our clinics in Mexico will assist you in filling out a claims form. Before your trip, you should call your insurance company to make sure you know what forms you will need to bring.