How to Save Money on Dental Implants: Medical Tourism and Other Tips
There are so many benefits to treating tooth loss with dental implants. They look and feel natural and are a worthwhile investment in your long-term oral health. I use the word “investment” intentionally. Treatment can be expensive, which is why so many people are looking for ways to cut costs or save money on dental implants.
The team at my practice here in Los Algodones, BC, which is conveniently located just acrosss the border in Mexico, would like to go over some advice when it comes to saving money on implant dentistry. I’ll also offer additional insight into saving money on dental implants without putting your health or safety at risk.
Dental Tourism for Lower Dental Implant Costs
Medical tourism and dental tourism refer to people traveling to other countries for dentistry. This includes dental implants, but may also involve multiple extractions, oral surgery, and other prosthodontic needs. Common destinations for dental tourism include Mexico, Thailand, Croatia, Malaysia, Turkey, and India.
Dental tourism is extremely popular. One trend report from Grand View Research estimated that the dental tourism industry earned $5.7 billion in 2022 alone.
How Much Cheaper Are Dental Implants Abroad?
That really depends on where you’re traveling to and the currency exchange rate. In terms of U.S. dollars, the price of dental implants in Los Algodones or other Mexican cities may be more than the cost of implants in Thailand. However, this does not take into account airfare or how much travel time is required.
Generally, though, dental tourists can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars on extensive dental work just by traveling to a foreign country.
How Much My Practice Charges for Dental Implants
My dental practice located in Los Algodones provides high-quality, state-of-the-art dental care at a much lower cost than providers in the United States. Even dentists across the border in Yuma cannot match my affordable prices.
Here is a table that illustrates just how much patients can save by coming to my office for cosmetic dentistry or restorative dental work.
| Dental Treatment | Cost in the U.S. | Cost in Los Algodones, Mexico |
| Single Dental Implant | $3,000+ | Starting at $1,400 |
| Single Dental Crown | $800 to $3,000 | $450 to $800 |
| Single Porcelain Veneer | $800 to $3,000 | $450 to $800 |
Additional Ways to Save Money on Dental Implants
In addition to getting your dental work done in Mexico, there are other ways that you can save on implant dentistry:
- Look Into Charitable Organizations - There are a number of charitable organizations that may be able to help you if you are missing teeth. This includes discounted dental implants or even free implants. Keep in mind that non-profit groups vary and some may have certain restrictions on who qualifies, but it’s worth doing your homework.
- Research and Comparison Shop - You have plenty of ways to compare implant prices from different dental care providers. If dental tourism is an option, you have an entire global marketplace to choose from. Whether it’s a local dental care provider or someone in another country, make sure you do your research about pricing.
- Ask About Financing Options - If the out-of-pocket costs of treatment are high, you may want to ask about financing options or payment plans that are available. This breaks up the total cost of dental care into affordable installments. Make sure to ask about low-interest financing in order to keep the overall costs down.
- Consider Crowdfunding - In April of this year, the BBC reported on a woman who crowdfunded her dental work. This is becoming more and more common given limited insurance coverage for dental work and the high cost of dental care in many countries. Some may hesitate about using GoFundMe or similar sites to help pay for dentistry, but I did want to mention it since it’s been helpful for some people around the world.
- Ask About Specials and Promotions - Finally, make sure to inquire about specials, discounts, and deals that are available for dental implants and other major dental work. You may be able to find a price quote or a deal that fits your budget.
Reminder: Consider Quality as Well as the Price of Treatment
Even though discounted dental work is a major reason people travel to other countries for implants, keep this in mind: the cost of treatment isn’t the whole story.
While prices are important, make sure to find a dentist or oral surgeon who puts your safety and long-term health first.
Here are some important reminders while you’re comparison shopping for dental implants.
Make Sure the Dentist or Oral Surgeon Is Reputable
There are literally hundreds of dentists working in Los Algodones. (There’s a reason it’s nicknamed “Molar City.”) Whether you’re coming to Los Algodones for dental implants or visiting another locale, always look up the dentist and his or her credentials. Pick someone with a good reputation.
Find Out About the Dental Facility
The dental practices in Mexico can vary in quality. In addition to looking up dentists, look up the place they work at and make sure they are in safe areas of the city. Check on technology, pain management options, and other amenities as well for your own peace of mind.
Browse Before and After Photos
Not all dentists are equal. Some routinely achieve excellent results with patients, while others treat their offices like dental mills and just shuttle people in and out. In the latter case, you can imagine how poor the outcomes of treatment can be. Look through before and after photos of dental patients to gauge the kind of work you’re getting for your money.
Look Up Patient Reviews
First-hand accounts of dental care experiences can be powerful, Look for patient testimonials, reviews, and any social media posts about a doctor and the work they’ve done. If a dentist is getting a lot of mixed or bad reviews for their work, you’ll know exactly who to avoid.
Remember: dental implants are an investment. Make sure that you invest wisely.
What Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Center Has to Offer
I believe that my dentistry practice in Los Algodones offers many things my colleagues in the region do:
- Use of the latest dental care technology and techniques
- Decades of hands-on experience in the field of dentistry
- Dental care providers with U.S. training and credentials
- A long record of success with patients from all over North America
Want to Learn More About Implants?
Set Up a Consultation Today
If you want to save money on dental implants, you are welcome to visit my office in Los Algodones for treatment. I want to help you invest in your health. To request an appointment, contact my dental office in Los Algodones.
About Jose Valenzuela, Jr., DDS
A second-generation dentist, Dr. Jose Valenzuela is a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He has extensive post-graduate dentistry training from multiple U.S. universities.
Read Dr. Valenzuela's Full Bio | All Posts by Dr. Valenzuela