Where to Find the Best Dental Implants in Mexico

The Complete Guide to Getting Dental Implants in Mexico

Are you planning to get dental implants in Mexico? If so, you’re making the right choice.

Mexico is one of the top destinations for dental tourism because of three main reasons: dental care is cheap, the quality of care is good, and it’s a convenient destination to go especially for those coming from anywhere in North America.

What’s more, getting dental implants in Mexico can save you a lot of money — it’s 50%-70% cheaper than getting them in the United States and many European countries. This can easily mean thousands of dollars in savings.

However, many people also have concerns about dentists’ reputation, that is, whether they can provide high-quality care. After all, getting dental implants is a lengthy and expensive procedure that can take around 6-8 months to complete. People will understandably want to get the best oral health care services throughout the entire process.

This article contains everything you need to know about getting dental implants in Mexico: how much it costs, what steps you should take, how to find the right clinic, and more.

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Why Mexico?

Many medical tourists choose to get dental treatment in Mexico because of the high quality of dental care and affordable prices. But why is it a particularly good destination to undergo a dental implant procedure?

Here are some of the reasons.

Low Prices

One of the main reasons why Mexico is a popular choice to get dental implants is the low price of treatment.

Note that dental implant procedures can be very expensive. For instance, an All-on-8 dental implant procedure in Mexico costs around $10,205-$16,035; in the U.S., it costs around $36,000. Even if you factor in the costs of airfare and accommodations, it’s still much cheaper to get dental implants in Mexico than in the U.S. Plus, you can take a side trip or a vacation while in Mexico.

In addition, many dental clinics in Mexico post a price list on their websites, which gives you a clear idea of how much you’ll have to spend.

But note that prices stated in most websites are estimates. You might have to pay more or less depending on your case.

Highly Qualified Dentists

There are over 83 dental schools in Mexico and over 170,000 dentists in Mexico, and this number continues to increase.

Becoming a dentist in Mexico is similar to how it’s done in many other countries. After graduating from high school, an aspiring dentist attends a dental school for three to five years, then serves one year of community service.

Cancun in Mexico
Cancun is a popular place to get dental implants as it has a lot of dental clinics. And while here, you can spend your free time relaxing at the white sandy beaches.

Many dentists in Mexico, especially those who are working for dental clinics catering to expats, obtained further training abroad, including in the U.S.

It’s safe to say that the expertise and quality of dentists in Mexico are comparable to what you will find in the U.S. and other developing countries.

Modern Dental Clinics

Mexico might be a developing third-world country, but its dental industry is just as advanced as any in the Western world.

In fact, dental practices in countries that have a steady flow of tourists and expats like Mexico are normally compelled to equip their clinics with state-of-the-art facilities, comfortable reception areas, digital diagnostic equipment, modern dental chairs, and more.

They do partly because they want to take advantage of the influx of tourists who may want to get dental services while in the country. This is also why they employ English-speaking staff: to assist non-Spanish speaking patients.

Safety

Some people may be concerned about whether dental clinics in Mexico observe proper hygiene and safety standards.

While such concern is not unfounded, many clinics in Mexico have significantly improved their hygiene standards compared to how it used to be many years ago. At present, it’s safe to get dental implants in the country. When getting treatment in Mexico, you can expect a standard of treatment similar to what you would get in the U.S. and other developed countries.

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You can check out a pretty insightful discussion on reddit.com about whether it’s safe to do extensive dental work in Mexico. The general consensus is that if you get dental treatment in Mexico, you’ll be quite happy with the results.

Nevertheless, not all clinics offer the same high standards. This is why instead of choosing the cheapest clinic available, you should go for one with a sterling reputation. Reading customer reviews of actual patients can be a big help.

Dental Implant Brands Available in Mexico

When talking about dental implant systems, we’re referring to the different brands of implants available.

Your dentist, in Mexico or elsewhere, will help you choose the most suitable option for you based on your needs.

While each of the implant systems below are also available in the U.S., some of the most popular dental implant systems used in Mexico include:

Straumann

Straumann implants are known to be a reliable brand of implants. These titanium implants help prevent changes in the facial structure due to bone loss, promoting good oral health.

In addition, the Straumann PURE Ceramic implant, which is ivory-colored to appear just like a tooth’s natural root, is available in Mexico. While it’s more expensive than other materials, it provides an equally strong yet more aesthetic, natural looking result.

Nobel BioCare

Swiss-born Nobel BioCare is one of the world’s oldest and most widely used dental implant brands. The titanium implants are a great option for single implants but are ideal for bridges, All-on-4 procedures, and other multiple implant treatments.

MIS

Known for its wide diameter and design, the MIS implant system provides great strength and support, making it a popular option for dental patients with lower bone density. The implant can also be used for all teeth, both front and back.

By providing patients with several dental implant options, including some of today’s top global brands, dental clinics in Mexico are able to deliver experiences and results on par with some of the best clinics in the U.S., Canada, and other developed countries. However, due to lower labor costs, they’re able to do so at a fraction of the price.

Cost

Mexico is one of the world’s top destinations for dental care. This is because many dental clinics in Mexico have highly trained dentists and use state-of-the-art tools to provide a wide variety of quality procedures, including dental implants.

In most cases, the only real difference is the price. The implants used and the quality of care are the same, but the procedures cost 50-70 percent less.

In the U.S. and other developed countries, dental implant procedures are usually very expensive. For example, a full mouth restoration can cost upwards of $50,000.

dental implant model.
There are different types of dental implants available in Mexico. Cost mainly depends on your oral health and the chosen implant system.

When patients receive treatment at a qualified clinic in Cancun, Mexico City, and elsewhere in Mexico, they can expect the same high-quality dental implants at prices that are much more accessible.

That said, the cost of getting dental implants in Mexico will depend on the dental implant system used and whether bone grafting or any other additional procedures are needed.

In Mexico, titanium dental implants can cost as low as $750 dollars per implant. With an abutment and crown, a single tooth replacement can cost $1,220. Compared to the U.S., where a single tooth replacement can cost nearly $4,000, the savings are considerable.

Single Tooth Implant

• Mexico – $750-$950

• U.S. – $2,790

Implant, Crown, and Abutment

• Mexico – $1,220-$1,295

• U.S. – $4,930

All-on-4 Implants

• Mexico – $7,085-$12,475

• U.S. – $24,000

All-on-6 Implants

• Mexico – $7,500-$14,255

• U.S. – $30,000

All-on-8 Implants

• Mexico – $10,205-$16,035

• U.S. – $36,000

Cost Factors

As you can see from the prices above, the costs of different types of dental implants in Mexico are 70 percent lower than the costs in the U.S. However, the actual cost of getting dental implants in Mexico will depend on the following factors:

Chosen Implant System

Many dental clinics in Mexico offer a variety of implant systems, including Straumann, Nobel BioCare, BHI Shark, and MIS Characteristics.

Straumann is a German brand and is usually the most expensive implant system. Swiss-made Nobel BioCare systems are just as expensive, followed by BHI Shark and MIS.

In addition to the price differences of each system, each also requires different products and materials that affect their price point. For example, if you go with zirconium rather than titanium for the Straumann system, you will pay more. Zirconium implants heal faster than titanium-based options, but they’re also more expensive.

Number of Implants Needed

Of course, the cost of dental implants also depends on the number of implants needed. The more implants you need, the higher the costs.

Your oral condition and the complexity of your case will also be taken into consideration. So before giving you an exact quote, a dental clinic in Mexico will perform an oral examination.

Some implant patients require bone grafting. This alone can add $400 or more to the total bill. Additional costs for X-rays, CT scans, tooth extraction, and crown attachments must also be considered and factored into the total price. The price posted on a website is more than likely not the price you will end up paying.

Choice of Dental Clinic

Which dental clinic in Mexico you choose will also affect the price you pay, but it may also affect the quality of treatment you receive. Like anywhere else, you’ll pay a premium for high-quality care, experience, and expertise.

Clinics that Offer Dental Implants

As an expat in Mexico, choosing which dental clinic to visit to undergo an implant surgery is a big decision. Ultimately, you want to go to a quality dentist close to home, so here are some of the top dental clinics in cities and regions throughout the country.

Mexico City

Mexico City is the country’s capital and by far its largest city. There are several quality dental clinics for patients to choose from for their implant procedure.

Ideal Dental Center

Located just 15 miles from Mexico City’s international airport, Ideal Dental Center has been in business for over 30 years. It offers dental implant services to locals, expats, and dental tourists.

The clinic is affiliated with several international organizations, including the American Academy of Orthodontists and Prosthetists, and specializes in providing quality dental implants and prosthodontic care.

Dr. Jaime Cohen Dental Clinic

Dr. Jaime Cohen studied pediatric dentistry at Columbia University in New York City. He has over three decades of experience and runs one of Mexico’s largest dental practices. His clinic is located in a modern building in downtown Mexico City.

The clinic offers perks and has a professional, highly trained team of dentists which have made them one of several popular choices for both locals and expats living in Mexico City.

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Cancun

Cancun is one of Mexico’s most visited locales. Also called the “Mexican Riviera”, it is home to white sand beaches, turquoise waters, thriving nightlife, and a number of dental clinics with highly trained dentists. From margaritas to dental implants, Cancun has it all.

Cancun Dental Specialists

Located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, Cancun Dental Specialist is a dental clinic that uses state-of-the-art equipment like CAD/CAM technology, Waterlase Iplus Laser chairs, and a 3D CT Cone Beam scanner to pinpoint implant placement.

The clinic’s specialists also have years and years of experience and include a board-certified U.S. dentist as well as an American Dental Association member.

Sani Dental Group Cancun Riviera

Founded by a specialist in Laser Dentistry and Implantology, Sani Dental Group is one of Mexico’s more popular dental services providers. Like the group’s other locations, the newly opened Sani Dental Group Cancun Riviera clinic in Playacar offers quality services.

This clinic is centrally located, making it convenient for many expats in the area to visit. They have orthodontic specialists with international training at reputable institutions in the U.S. and elsewhere abroad.

Bokanova Dental Center

Located in Playa del Carmen, Bokanova Dental Center has state-of-the-art equipment, highly trained staff, and implant specialists. It is quite popular among American and Canadian expats in need of implant surgery.

Bokanova fully complies with American Dental Association and ISO standards and offers a five-year warranty for all implants. On average, the cost of getting implants at this dental clinic is 20 percent less than in clinics in Canada and the U.S.

Baja

From the border town of Los Algodones to the resort oasis of Cabo San Lucas on the peninsula’s far southern tip, Baja is home to several of Mexico’s most popular dental clinics.

Sani Dental Group Platinum

Sani Dental Group Platinum is the group’s high-end clinic. Located near the Yuma border in the popular medical tourism town of Los Algodones (“Molar City”), the clinic is known for its sleek design and offers the same competitive pricing as its main clinic and many others in the area.

At Sani Dental Group Platinum, you can expect an upscale atmosphere with leather sofas, comfortable amenities, and modern dental equipment. They have an English-speaking team and highly trained specialists with over 25 years of experience.

USmile Center

USmile Center is a dental clinic located in the popular resort and expat destination of Cabo San Lucas on the tip of Mexico’s Baja peninsula. USmile is run by prosthodontics specialist Dr. Martha Ziehl, who has been practicing since 2009. Working alongside her are several other specialists, including Dr. Alex Armenta, a periodontics and implantology specialist.

USmile attracts both local and international patients needing a variety of dental treatments, including implants. The clinic offers everything from a single dental implant to All-on-4 implants.

Maxi-Med Los Cabos

The Maxi-Med Los Cabos clinic is located just a few minutes from the main beach in beautiful, sun-soaked Cabo San Lucas. The clinic is headed by Macrina Erendira Bustos Mora, a highly experienced maxillofacial surgeon who has been practicing for 25 years. Working alongside Dr. Mora is bilingual dentist Dr. Juan Carlos Aguilera. Together, they provide a wide range of dental treatments, including single, All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implant systems.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a gorgeous seaside resort town in the state of Jalisco on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Surrounded by mountains, palm trees, beautiful beaches, and a buzzing nightlife, it’s an ideal place for dental implant surgery and the R&R needed afterwards.

Unident

Opened in 2000, Unident provides comprehensive dental care to local Puerto Vallarta residents and international patients alike. Originally founded by Dr. Benjamin Valle, the clinic now has a professional team of seven dentists specializing in a variety of disciplines, including dental implants.

Located right by the marina in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, Unident uses advanced implantology technology and provides dental implants at accessible prices.

Smile Vallarta

Smile Vallarta is another respected dental care provider in the resort town of Puerto Vallarta. The clinic is located in the “Be Health Center” and features a friendly staff, relaxing atmosphere, and modern décor.

In business since 2005, Smile Vallarta is headed by Dr. Alejandro Sanchez and his experienced team of dental professionals. In addition to implant services, the clinic also offers free oral exams, X-rays, and a variety of perks.

Choosing the Right Clinic

Different dental clinics in Mexico quote different prices. Brand name clinics, like Sani Dental Group, often charge higher prices than privately owned clinics for the same procedure, technology, and materials used.

However, just because a clinic charges more doesn’t mean it’s always better. Really, it all comes down to reputation and trust.

Many expats tend to trust brand-name clinics and don’t mind paying a little more. They trust the clinic’s reputation and want to make sure they receive high-quality service and nothing goes wrong.

dental consultation room.
Many expats decide to get dental implants at a brand-name clinic to make sure they get quality service.

These types of dental clinics in Mexico have experienced specialists, modern facilities, and the latest equipment. They are also usually associated with higher success rates, speedier recovery times, and less pain.

Preparing for Dental Implants

In addition to choosing the right dental clinic, there are some things you can do to ensure your implant procedure is a success.

Avoid Drinking and Smoking

Drinking and smoking can affect the body’s ability to heal post-op. It can also negatively affect the bone’s ability to fuse to the implant. Therefore, drinkers and smokers are recommended to quit before undergoing any type of surgery, including a dental implant procedure.

If you are unable to suddenly quit drinking and smoking, you should minimize your alcohol or tobacco intake prior to the procedure.

Boost Your Immune System

Your immune system and overall health are also factors that will affect your dental implant procedure. If you are feeling under the weather or not on your normal strength level, your dentist may choose to reschedule the procedure to a later date.

Ask Questions

You are encouraged to ask many questions about the procedure. Despite being a non-native English speaking country, Mexico’s many popular, well-respected dental clinics have English speaking dentists and staff, so language barrier is unlikely to become an issue.

For instance, you should ask about your dentist’s area of specialty, accreditations, and qualifications. You should also find out how many implant procedures the clinic has performed and ask to see patient testimonials and before-and-after photos.

Other things to inquire about include:

• What to expect post-op and what kind of aftercare will be required

• The materials and tools to be used in the procedure

• What to do if any complications arise

• If insurance will cover any of the procedure, and if not, what payment options are available

Follow Instructions

Following instructions is even more important than asking questions. Patients requiring sedation should avoid eating or drinking six hours prior to surgery. In some cases, an antibiotic prophylaxis may be prescribed which should be taken six hours prior to a procedure requiring sedation or one hour prior otherwise.

Following these and any other instructions will help minimize complications and ensure successful results.

Dental Implants Procedure

Getting dental implants is a lengthy process which can take four to six months to complete. It also requires you to visit a dentist at least twice.

Here are the common stages in getting a dental implant.

dental office
There are multiple procedures involved in getting a dental implant. The entire process can take up to six months.

First Visit

On your first visit to the clinic, the dentist will conduct a full examination of your oral health and place temporary teeth.

Evaluation

Before the dental implants are placed, the dentist will make you take an X-ray or a CT scan to get a visual record of your bone and jaw structure. This is done so they can fully examine your entire mouth and come up with a treatment plan.

At this stage, you will be informed of all the steps involved in the dental implant procedure and the costs.

Placing Artificial Roots and Temporary Teeth

Next, the dentist will extract your tooth (if necessary), drill your jawbone, install implant placements which will function as artificial roots, and place temporary teeth.

Depending on your jawbone’s structure, you may have to undergo bone grafting, in which case you’ll need to wait a few more months for it to recover before you can get the implants.

Second Visit

Upon getting the dental implants, you’ll need to wait three to four months for it to heal before you take another trip to Mexico to complete the whole process.

On your second visit, you may have to stay in Mexico for five days.

Placing an Abutment

This is when the dentist places an abutment, or the screw that connects the artificial roots that are placed on the first visit and permanent artificial teeth.

The dentist will then create a model of your permanent teeth. You will need to wait for at least five days. Some dental clinics might be able to do it within one or two days.

Placing Permanent Artificial Teeth

This is the last step in getting dental implants. A dentist will place permanent artificial teeth and make sure they can function normally and have the same color as your natural teeth.

After this, you may need follow-up treatments to ensure that everything works well.

Payment Options

Most dentist offices in Mexico prefer American currency.

The cost of getting dental implants (even in Mexico) is high, so patients are given the option to pay in installment. Most installment plans for dental implants involve making two payments: one per each phase of the procedure.

There are several payment methods available.

Cash

Many dental clinics in Mexico accept cash for payment, regardless of the cost of the procedure. However, payment policies vary from one provider to the next, so it’s best to check prior to scheduling a consultation.

If cash is accepted, you can usually pay in Mexican pesos or US dollars, but the latter is almost always preferred. That said, carrying around that kind of cash anywhere isn’t a smart idea. It’s best to explore other payment options.

Credit Card

A number of dental clinics in Mexico accept credit cards from the major providers. This includes credit cards from Mexican banks like BBVA Bancomer and Citibanamex, which you may or may not have as an expat. However, if you use a U.S.-based credit card to finance dental implants, you may have to pay a foreign transaction fee of up to four percent.

PayPal

Some clinics also accept payments via PayPal. However, it isn’t as widely accepted as cash or credit, so it’s best to inquire ahead of time.

Check

Both personal and traveler’s checks are somewhat of a rarity in this day and age, but many clinics still accept both.

On a side note, dental implants are generally not covered by dental insurance. However, some procedures, such as X-ray imaging and bone graphs may be covered, so it’s worth checking out.

Now, on to You

We hope this guide has answered your questions and will help you on your journey to getting dental implants in Mexico.

While the same implants, materials, and technologies are used, dental implant procedures in Mexico cost much less than in the U..S, Canada, and other developed countries.

If you are ready to reclaim your smile, you can schedule an appointment with one of the reputable clinics mentioned in this guide, get an oral exam, and discuss your implant options with a certified dental implant specialist today.

Related article: How to Find a Dental Clinic in Mexico: Dentist, Cost, and Quality

Please note: The information provided by ExpatDen is not intended to replace or serve as a substitute for medical or healthcare advice. It is strongly recommended that you seek guidance and consultation from a licensed medical practitioner or qualified healthcare professional pertaining to your specific circumstances and healthcare needs.

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