Pros and Cons of Dental Implants in Los Algodones
Mexican dental tourism is on the rise, but is it right for you? The article explains the pros and cons of getting dental implants in Los Algodones, the cost advantages, and why they are still so popular among American and Canadian patients.
Have you been postponing your dream of having dental implants because of the astounding cost of treatment in your home country? A quick trip to a dental office in Los Algodones may be the best solution for you.
Los Algodones is located in Baja, California, Mexico, just seven miles from Yuma, Arizona. Tens and thousands of Americans and Canadians have been traveling to this small Mexican town to get affordable dental care.
Before you pack your bags and drive off to seek affordable dentistry in Los Algodones, it’s a good idea to look at whether the cost saving is really worth it?
Continue reading to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of getting dental implants in Los Algodones.
Pros of Getting Dental Implants in Los Algodones
1. The cost of dental implants in Los Algodones is 50% – 70% lower than in the US
Patients traveling to Los Algodones can expect to save an average of 50% – 70% for any dental work. That’s thousands of dollars in savings.
Most patients can get full arch dental implants in Los Algodones for $11,800 compared to an average of $26,500 in the US.
We have listed a table below to give you a comparison of the cost of dental implants in Los Algodones Mexico and the US:
Dental Implant Procedure | Unit | Los Algodones Cost | Local US Clinic Cost |
Single dental implant with crown | Per tooth | $1,805 | $5,000 |
Snap on dentures | Per arch | $7,700 | $20,000 |
Fixed Hybrid Bridge implants | Per arch | $11,800 | $26,500 |
All on 4 dental implants | Per arch | $11,800 | $26,500 |
All on 6 dental implants | Per arch | $12,800 | $29,250 |
Dental care is remarkably affordable here for many reasons. Mexico dentists have lower costs of labor, laboratories, materials, and rent. And the dentists simply don’t make as much as their US counterparts. All these factors translate to lower dental costs.
The majority of tourists coming here are seeking major dental procedures such as dental implants, root canals, crowns, dentures, and veneers among others. By travelling across the border, you have the opportunity to get more dental work because all dental treatments are relatively cheaper in Mexico. You can:
- Get a full smile makeover while saving thousands in dental work
- Upgrade to better dental crowns such as zirconia at a lower price than in the US
2. Getting dental implants in Los Algodones is just as safe in the US
There is a misconception that it is dangerous to visit Mexico. Yes, there are some places you should avoid, but Los Algodones is not one of them.
In fact, dental tourism in Los Algodones is a big thing. This little Mexican town has a burgeoning average market of 300,000 American and Canadian tourists a year. Border officials and police are friendly to both foreign tourists and locals. It is isolated from the drug cartel violence that plagues other parts of Mexico.
Worried about the safety of the dental work in Los Algodones?
Most of the dentists we encounter in Los Algodones use sophisticated water filtration and advanced sterilization systems. But we can only vouch for the dentists we recommend.
A dental implant is a complex procedure and risks do happen, but the best dentists will know how to handle them properly.
For the past 15 years, Dayo Dental has worked with thousands of American patients who are traveling to Los Algodones for dental implants. Since then, we have not yet encountered any safety complaints from any of our clients.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: There are good dentists and bad dentists, just like anywhere, including your hometown. So it’s important to do your research to avoid ending up with a bad one. At Dayo Dental, we have a stringent screening process and select only the most qualified Mexico dentists who practice internationally recognized protocols. Safety and quality control are our highest priority.
All in all, we can tell you that getting dental work done in Los Algodones is as safe as getting it done in the US – provided you go to a qualified, experienced, and pre-vetted dentist. Just follow the guidelines in the articles we put out and you’ll be fine.
3. High competition means better dentistry and lower cost of dental implants for you
Los Algodones is nicknamed the “Molar City” because of the robust competition among local dentists.
This competition drives prices down and pushes the level of implant training to a higher level.
The dental offices are right next to each other. You can easily shop for the best dental implants in Los Algodones, Mexico and the availability of dentists. Decent research should enable you to pin down a good dentist in the area and ensure that you get the care that you want.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: The level of dental care in Los Algodones can vary quite a bit. So it’s important to NOT rely your decision on the cost alone. Just like anywhere else, there might be dentists who will try to lure you with “cheap” and “low-cost” dental implants. This can easily double or triple your expenses if things go wrong.
4. Los Algodones is the center for advanced training in implant dentistry
Los Algodones is now a hub for mini-residencies and hands-on courses in dental implant dentistry. Many American and Canadian dentists are coming over to learn and take advantage of the advanced techniques used in the Molar City.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: At Dayo Dental, we go to great lengths to recommend qualified dentists who are experts in the field. We select dentists who have a combined experience of over two-three decades in implant dentistry so you can ensure you’re in good hands.
5. Many of the best dentists in Mexico are in Los Algodones
Many of the top dentists in Los Algodones got their US training from prestigious schools such as UCLA, NYU, UPenn, or Loma Linda.
Many of the top dental clinics in Los Algodones have modern technology. They have the capability to produce high-quality prosthetic work similar (if not better) to what you would find in your hometown.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: It’s important to do your due diligence when selecting the best implant dentist in Los Algodones. Look for online reviews, ask questions about their qualifications and experience, and always check credentials before committing to a treatment plan.
Factors that ensure you receive good dental care are:
- International certifications and training
- The use of cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art equipment
- Knowledgeable, experienced, and certified dentists with decades of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry
- Quality control and water sterilization systems
- Proven track record of successful outcomes
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: International memberships like the American Dental Association (ADA) don’t really signify quality and high skill level in implant dentistry. It mostly means they are paying members and subscribe to guidelines from the ADA.
Going with a prevetted dentist in Los Algodones is the safer bet than getting a deal from an unknown dentist. For example, Dayo Dental’s partner dentist, Dr. Carlos Rubio is among the top 5% implant dentists in Mexico. He has earned diplomas and certificates from dozens of top US dental schools. Many US dentists travel to Mexico to train under his guidance. He’s also a renowned guest speaker at dental conferences throughout Mexico and South America.
6. Los Algodones is right across the US-Mexico Border
One of the motivations why American patients choose Los Algodones is the close proximity to the US border. Most of these US-bound tourists simply make their two-hour or six-hour drive to the border town, stay in a hotel, and drive back home the next day.
Most Los Algodones dental offices are within a 5 to 10-minute walk from the border so you can simply walk across the border. Los Algodones is a small town, so finding your way around is pretty easy.
Now, there are 3 ways to travel to Los Algodones.
- Option 1: Driving to Los Algodones
It takes 3 ½ hours from Phoenix and 2 ½ hours from San Diego by car. You have the option to park your car on the US side of the border for a nominal fee. It’s a safe and gated parking lot run by native Americans.
Since it’s not a major point of entry, crossing the border takes less time compared to Tijuana and Juarez. The US border crossing is less busy most times of the year, except during March and April.
- Option 2: Flying to Los Algodones
Los Algodones does not have an airport. The closest airport is Yuma International Airport which is 7 miles from the border.
You also have the option to fly into the Palm Springs International Airport (PSIA) which is about 137 miles away. Or you can take a flight from the San Diego International Airport (SAN) which is about 165 miles from Los Algodones.
- Option 3: Public transportation to Los Algodones
You can take a bus or private shuttle to Yuma, Arizona. You can take a taxi or Uber to the Yuma border. Dayo Dental also has some corporate discounts for hotels in Yuma. These hotels have private shuttles that can take you to the Los Algodones border.
7. You can get same-day appointments with a dentist in Los Algodones
It’s relatively easy to book and get a same-day appointment with a dentist in Los Algodones.
They know you’re coming in from out of state and want to assist you with your needs as quickly as possible.
It usually takes longer to get dental implants with your US dentist. The common scenario is that your general dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon or periodontist. You may have to wait weeks to get an appointment with your local oral surgeon. Then, your oral surgeon will schedule you for an implant surgery which is another few weeks. And on and on.
In contrast, you can get your dental implant surgery as early as the same day or the next day in Los Algodones. You get your CT Scan done during the consultation. They can schedule you for your implant surgery right after the appointment or the next day if everything goes well during the consultation.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: Find a dentist with an advanced in-house CAD-CAM machine to complete your dental implant consultation. At Dayo Dental, our partner dental offices have modern x-ray and CT scan systems to provide accurate diagnoses and planning of your oral surgery.
8. You can visit a pharmacy to buy your prescriptions at a reduced rate
You can save even more money by filling your prescription meds from any of the pharmacies in Mexico. It’s also legal to bring a 90-day personal supply of prescription meds to the US.
The only exception is that you can’t bring controlled substances and strong antibiotics such as Cipro and Opiates.
Learn the rules on buying prescription meds in Mexico to avoid the hassles when you cross back the border.
9. Los Algodones is a very relaxed and safe town
Geographical convenience aside, Los Algodones features not only dental offices but also pharmacies, restaurants, and souvenir shops. It has a small-town vibe, and the locals are very friendly. Tourists can easily navigate through streets lined with friendly vendors.
You can find good deals for prescription medications and eyeglasses. You can also take a break between your dental appointments and explore nearby bistros for authentic Mexican food.
If you’re coming from further away, there are good hotels at reasonable prices if you know where to look.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: Are you driving to Los Algodones? We recommend staying at our affiliated hotels in Los Algodones, so you don’t have to drive across the border right after the surgery. Dayo Dental Network has a recommended list of great hotels you can score for a reasonable price.
Cons of Getting Dental Implants in Los Algodones
1. Beware of hawkers or peddlers in Los Algodones
Hawkers, pickers, or dental peddlers are common in the streets of Los Algodones.
They sell you bargain basement rates and promises of quality dental care. They are usually nice and polite. They make a living by taking patients to dentists that pay them commissions.
There’s nothing wrong with this. But most good and reputable dentists in Los Algodones don’t work with the hawkers. As a result, you may end up with substandard work by a non-reputable dentist, which could lead to more costs due to rework.
Just be nice and respectfully decline their offer.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: Do your research ahead of time regarding which dentist you’d like to see. Then when you arrive in Los Algodones, stick to your original dentist. You won’t have time (and/or the internet) to do advanced research once you pick a dentist off the street during your first visit.
2. Some dental offices don’t take credit cards
It’s recommended to bring cash as most dental offices in Los Algodones only take cash for dental work. Some dental offices accept credit cards, but they typically charge a 3-6% card processing fee. On top of this, your bank may charge you overseas transaction fees for using your card in Mexico.
Are you worried because you don’t have a Mexican Peso currency? Los Algodones dentists and businesses prefer you pay in dollars (USD). Restaurants, shops, and pharmacies all accept dollars.
Dayo Dental allows you to pay safely and conveniently using a debit or credit card without any extra charges. You also don’t pay foreign transaction fees or card fees. Pay with a card through Dayo Dental to avoid bringing thousands of dollars to pay for your dental implant work.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: Don’t pay for your dental work in full unless you fully trust your dentist. There might be no recourse if the work turns out to be substandard. Pay in increments and choose a dentist that guarantees their work.
3. Not an ideal place to stay overnight
Los Algodones can be surprisingly quiet at night. The whole town shuts down at night. There’s not much to do or places to eat after the border closes at 10:00 PM. Most locals just work here during the daytime, leaving the streets empty.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: Consider staying in nearby Yuma for better hotels and dining options. Call Dayo Dental at 877-987-3296 for corporate rates at these hotels if you plan to use our network for your dental work in Los Algodones.
4. You won’t have as much recourse if your dental implants fail
Many dentists in Los Algodones advertise guarantees on their work. But it doesn’t guarantee that they will honor that guarantee. You may be stuck paying for corrective work if something goes wrong.
It will be very hard and complicated to sue your dentist, unlike in the US.
There’s not much you can do other than write a review. Your review will probably get buried in the dozens of good reviews.
We require our partner dentists to provide a 5-year guarantee on all your dental work. We make sure that they follow through with the guarantee to remain a part of the Dayo Dental Network. We also support you as a patient advocate to manage your dental care from start to finish. We want to make sure that every patient that goes through Dayo Dental receives the high-quality dental work that they deserve, without any issues or hassles.
5. Dental implants in Los Algodones require multiple trips
There is no such thing as teeth in a day. All dental implant procedures, whether you get them done locally or in Mexico, require multiple visits to the dentist.
You will need to allot approximately 2 – 3 trips to complete the procedure, whether you need a single tooth implant or full arch dental implants. The number of trips can vary depending on each case.
Those with insufficient bone structure must undergo a bone grafting procedure requiring another trip.
The entire procedure can take up to four to six months, even up to 12 months, including the implant placement surgery, the healing process (osseointegration), and the placement of the permanent prosthesis.
You may not be deterred from going to Mexico for dental implants when you realize your savings can amount to the price of a brand-new car. It’s worth it, especially if you live close by.
Check out the article ‘Dental Implants in Mexico to learn more about the entire procedure.
6. You have to consider hotel and travel expenses
You will need to factor in your travel expenses, especially now that you know dental implants require multiple visits.
Shopping, meals, gas, or airfare costs are some things you need to factor in. Airfare and lodging costs are a big part of your expenses.
But even with all these expenses, you will still save thousands of dollars in dental work. That’s a lot compared to getting an estimated cost of $55,000 worth of full-mouth implants in your home country.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: By going through Dayo Dental, you receive pre-negotiated discounts for major dental procedures. You also avoid potential hassles and headaches. Your dedicated Professional Advisor organizes all the details of your trip for you.
7. No dental financing
Most dental clinics in Los Algodones, Mexico, do not offer dental financing for your dental implant procedure.
Yes, your procedure costs half as much, but it’s still thousands of dollars. Dental financing would allow you to get the procedure done now instead of waiting to save up for funds.
Typical US dental financing, such as Care Credit, doesn’t work in Mexico. Your option is to get a US loan on your own.
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: Fortunately, Dayo Dental offers dental financing. We offer similar terms that you would expect from your US dentist. You can break your implant cost into manageable monthly payments similar to paying a car loan.
8. You need a passport
You don’t need to present anything when entering Los Algodones. But a valid passport is mandatory for entering back to the US side of the border.
Unfortunately, passports are taking longer than the usual timeframe for 2022 due to backlogs caused by COVID.
Do you need emergency dental work? Have you applied for a passport and can’t wait for it to arrive? Fortunately, Los Algodones border agents offer flexibility in special situations. You can bring a combination of alternative forms of identification if you don’t have a valid passport: The border agents just need to verify your proof of citizenship or residency.
These alternatives include:
- Expired U.S. passport card
- US birth certificate
- Enhanced driver’s license
- Receipt of application for a passport
TIP FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS IN LOS ALGODONES: Thinking of going to Los Algodones for dental work? Start the passport application process right away to avoid delays. And expect it to take longer than usual in 2022 and 2023.
9. It’s difficult to find who to trust
Everyone in Los Algodones advertises that they can do dental implants, including complex procedures such as All on 4 dental implants. But dentists in Los Algodones have varying skill levels and only a few can do complex implant cases very well.
For instance, the average cost of all on 4 dental implants in Mexico can be costly even with insurance. The cost of the rework could easily wipe out your savings if you don’t choose your dentist well.
Other complex cases include full arch implants and front teeth implants.
Not all Los Algodones dentists have the necessary experience, training, or skill needed to deal with the potential complications that may arise.
Dentists in the US are more prudent and selective about the procedures they do for fear of lawsuits. Unfortunately, this is not always the case in Mexico.
Summary
Decided to get dental implants in Algodones? Are you looking for a Los Algodones dental clinic that you can trust? Make sure you’ve researched and equipped yourself with the necessary knowledge.
We have done the screening for you. We deliver you to Mexico’s top 5% dentist to ensure you get your dental work in Mexico without any issues or hassles. Contact Dayo Dental to get personalized advice and help throughout the process.
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