All You Need To Know About Dental Care in Tijuana, Mexico

Content Writer

Prathyusha Itikarlapalli

- Content Writer

Posted July 08, 2024
Are you feeling a pinch with the expensive dental treatments at home? Imagine an irresistible option instead. Dental care in Tijuana can be your escape from heavy price tags and long wait times in the States. This friendly guide covers all the essential points a first-time dental tourist needs to know.
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All You Need To Know About Dental Care in Tijuana, Mexico
All You Need To Know About Dental Care in Tijuana, Mexico

Key Takeaways

  • Choosing dental care in Tijuana offers savings of up to 85% on various dental procedures. 
  • The best dental clinics in Tijuana are state-of-the-art equipped and have qualified dental professionals. They are ADA-approved and offer top-notch treatment.
  • In Tijuana, you can get a range of dental treatment procedures under the same roof. The city is close to the US-Mexican border, and the convenience of reaching here makes this choice an ideal one. 

Nearly half of American adults postpone their healthcare treatments, with dentistry being the most common. The main reason is the high costs back home.[1] In this scenario, some choose the practical option of finding affordable dental care abroad rather than waiting in pain. Countries like Mexico, Thailand, Costa Rica, Turkey, and India have emerged as popular dental tourism destinations.[2] Dental work in Mexico is a preferred choice mainly because of its affordability and convenience. Especially the border cities like Tijuana and Los Algodones are most visited primarily because of proximity. Tijuana is an easy-to-reach city, especially for those living in California. Now, let’s understand other factors that drive Americans to choose Tijuana for dental work.   

Why Choose Tijuana for Dental Work?

The straightforward answer is quality, affordability, and convenience. Dental work in Tijuana prices are quite reasonable and offer savings of around 85%. Plus, the city is just a short drive from San Diego, California. While the bustling city is famous for its nightlife, it's no wonder that many tourists cross the border for dental care. Below, we jotted down all the key benefits of choosing the cheapest dentist in Tijuana, Mexico.

  • Reasonable prices and considerable savings of 85% on dental care in Tijuana
  • Top-quality dental work at state-of-the-art equipped dental clinics in Tijuana 
  • Board-certified dental professionals holding professional affiliations with ADA and ITI 
  • Range of dental services offered under a single roof by Tijuana dental clinics
  • Top-notch results with personalized treatment plans as per patient requirements 
  • English-speaking dentists, efficient patient support system  
  • Vacation opportunities and a chance to turn a boring dental trip into an exciting one

Are you wondering if choosing Tijuana for dental work would be a compromise on quality? We suggest you read on further. 

Dental Care in Tijuana vs. US

Tijuana dental care is more or less similar to what you can expect in the United States. Tijuana dental clinics are state-of-the-art equipped. They maintain outstanding excellence in dentistry and align with cleanliness regulations laid out by the global regulatory bodies. Dentists here are highly qualified and members of organizations like ADA. They rely on advanced dental technology such as dental lasers, low radiation 3-D digital X-rays, and intraoral scanners. Utilizing cutting-edge technology allows accurate diagnosis and treatment. One can expect precise results when you choose the right dental professional in Tijuana, Mexico. Check out these treatments before and after photos to gauge the quality of dental work in Tijuana.

Before and After Dental work in Tijuana
Before and After Dental work in Tijuana

While pictures speak volumes about the effectiveness of results, it's crucial to understand the quality of care. Reading ex-patient testimonials offers insights into the treatment quality. 

Dental work in Tijuana reviews:

“This is the best work I’ve ever experienced. The staff is amazing and highly accommodating. They are all fluent in English and Spanish, and everything is set at an amazing price. Will be coming back here for the foreseeable future!”

-Manuel

The following section will help you find the clinics offering the best dental work in Tijuana.  

Top Dental Clinic in Tijuana, Mexico

We present you with our proud dental partner in Tijuana, Marietta Dental Care. This family-owned dental clinic offers comprehensive dental care for international patients. Below are the key features showcasing the clinic details. 

  • State-of-the-art-equipped
  • Dentists are members of the American Dental Association and the International Team of Implantology
  • Accepts dental insurance and offers flexible financing options
  • Tailored and round-the-clock operating services 
  • Comforting environment with standard hygiene and cleanliness standards
  • Offers a range of dental services with flexible appointments 
  • Free initial consultation and warranty* on selected dental treatments (*Terms and conditions apply)
  • Located close to the US-Mexico border. Transport shuttle for border pick-up and drop-off
Marietta Dental Care Tijuana, Mexico
Marietta Dental Care Tijuana, Mexico

Spotting the right dentist can be a tough task, even with a trusted dental clinic. Follow the essential steps to find a dentist who can match your requirements. Scroll further down to learn more. 

Best Dentist in Tijuana: How To Choose Them? 

Spotting the right dental professional is the key to treatment success. Always do your research to find out these essential indicators. We also explained why doing your research is important. 

  • Check the dentist's qualifications and credentials. Dentistry is a blend of science and art. With qualified dentists, one can expect safe diagnosis and treatment success.
  • Verify professional certifications: Dentists holding board certifications stay updated on advancing technology and maintain their certification through continuous learning.
  • An eye of the dentist's experience: Professionals holding years of experience can deal with complex cases with ease. Also, check on their experience in dealing with international patients.
  • Match the area of expertise: Dentists holding specialization in particular areas of dentistry can deliver exceptional results. Checking out their areas of work can allow you to land at the best-suited professional. 
  • Ex-patient testimonials and treatment before-after images: Hearing other patients talk about their experiences can be a great way to understand the quality of care you can expect. Plus, the patient's before-and-after photos depict the effectiveness of the treatment.   

Dentists in Tijuana, Mexico List

Here are the best dentists in Tijuana, Mexico. Since our partner dental clinic offers a wide array of dental treatments, we also provide you with the dentist's area of expertise. 

Tijuana’s Top Dental Professionals 

Dentist Name

Area of Expertise

Treatments 

Dr. Uriel Higuera

Prosthodontics, Implantology, and cosmetic dentistry

Implants, crowns, bridges, veneers, onlays, inlays, full mouth rehabilitation  

Dr. Leslie Carrasco (ADA member)

General Dentist

Routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, whitening, root canals, dental bonding, sealants, dentures, crowns, and bridges. 

Dr. Esmeralda Alvarez

General Dentist

Routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, whitening, root canals, dental bonding, sealants, dentures, crowns, and bridges.

Dr. Sarai Payan (ADA member)

General Dentist

Routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, whitening, root canals, dental bonding, sealants, dentures, crowns, and bridges.

Dr. Carlos Torrez

Implantologist 

Dental implants, implant-supported dentures, crowns, and bridges 

Note that the dentists mentioned here are bilinguals and are well-experienced in dealing with international patients. Suppose you are worried about finding a dentist in Tijuana that take US insurance; steer clear of the worries right now! 

Dentists in Tijuana: Do They Accept US Insurance?

Getting treated by the dentists at our partner clinic in Tijuana offers numerous advantages. They accept US dental insurance and also offer you flexible financing options with CareCredit®. While the patient manager at Envoy Health will elaborate on the details, the clinic also helps you with the necessary paperwork. However, discussing the details of insurance provider and coverage prior to your treatment can help avoid last hour surprises. 

Tijuana Dental Work: Top Chosen Procedures

Tijuana offers top-quality dental care with its myriad of treatment options, from routine check-ups to advanced procedures. Rest assured that you can find the care you need. Our partner clinic, Marietta Dental Care, is a premier provider of affordable and quality dental care in Tijuana. The ADA and ITI-affiliated, family-owned clinic offers restorative, cosmetic, and implant dentistry treatments.

Restorative Dentistry in Tijuana

Restorative dentistry deals with repairing tooth loss and restoring the lost function of missing teeth. To repair damaged teeth, dental implants, crowns, root canals, and full mouth reconstruction are used.

Dental Implants  

Dental implants offer life-changing solutions for missing teeth problems. They make life easier by restoring your lost functions like chewing and speaking with clarity. Dental implants, in short, are metal screws that replace missing tooth roots. They support the artificial teeth that complete your smile.[3] In Tijuana, you can expect implant-supported crowns for single-tooth loss. Further, you also get the all-on-4 and all-on-6 implants in Tijuana. Dental implants in Tijuana cost the lowest at $1,550. The best dentist in Tijuana for implants offers a maximum price of up to $14,500. However, the exact price depends on the implant type, number, and price inclusions. Here, we tabulated the dental implants cost Tijuana.

Dental implants in Tijuana cost

Implant Type

Tijuana  Cost

Implant with crown

$1,550

All-on-4 implants with prosthesis*

$7,500

All-on-6 implants with prosthesis*

$9,999

3-on-6 implants with prosthesis* 

$11,000

Peek system 

$13,000

*Per arch price. Applies with inclusions and variations on implant brand and prosthesis type.

#Prices are case-dependent. 

Dental Crowns

In Tijuana, you can also get dental crowns, which are small tooth-colored caps.[4] They offer solutions for missing, damaged, decayed, or misshapen teeth. In Tijuana, you get a choice of PFM, zirconia, gold, and IPS E-max crowns. The best dentist in Tijuana for crowns will help you choose the right one based on your requirements. Tijuana dentist will place them by reshaping your existing teeth. This applies when your tooth is partially damaged, and most parts can be retained back. The damaged part will be removed, and the remaining portion will be ground to support the dental crown. Suppose your tooth suffered irreparable damage; the dentist will remove it and fix a dental implant to support a crown. Below, we tabulated Tijuana dental crown prices.

Dental work in Tijuana prices: Crowns 

Dental Crown

Tijuana Cost 

PFM crown 

$220

Zirconia crown 

$450

IPS E-max crown 

$450

Gold crown 

$900

#Extra charges apply for additional procedures like root canals, implants, or extraction.

Dental Crowns Cost in Tijuana
Dental Crowns Cost in Tijuana

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges can restore the lost functions of 1-3 missing teeth in a jaw. Bridges have crowns and pontics and rely on surrounding healthy teeth or implants to complete their function. The dentist will reshape the adjacent teeth lying close to the damaged tooth. These serve as an anchor to support the pontic teeth. Your dentist will also use dental implants as anchors.[5] The cost of dental bridges ranges between $600 and $7,500, depending on the type of material used. In Tijuana, you get a choice between traditional and implant-supported bridges. Further, based on the material used, you get IPS E- Max, PFM, gold, and zirconia bridges.

Root Canal Treatment 

Root canal treatment is for severe tooth decay that reaches the pulp. Your Tijuana dentist will clean the tooth interior. They will remove the infected pulp and close the hole using a filling. In case the damage is severe, you might need a crown rather than a dental filling. This treatment relieves any pain associated with the decayed and damaged tooth.[6] A certified endodontics specialist will perform your root canal therapy in Tijuana, Mexico. Getting root canal treatment in Tijuana will cost you $220 for any tooth.

Further, our partner clinic, Marietta Dental Care, also offers full mouth reconstruction to repair your smile completely. Your dentist uses a combination of dental restorations to achieve this.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Tijuana

Cosmetic dental treatments improve your smile appearance. They address issues with teeth color, shape, size, alignment, and gum size. You get a range of treatments as part of cosmetic dental services

Dental Veneers 

Veneers are thin tooth-colored shells that conceal the front teeth issues like chips, cracks, and discoloration. They are solely for cosmetic purposes and add no strength to your existing teeth.[7] Veneers in Tijuana cost around $400 per unit, which is nearly three times lower than the Stateside price of $1,200. These veneers in Tijuana are made from highly durable and stain-resistant porcelain. Plus, in some cases, the best cosmetic dentist in Tijuana also offers lumineers if you are not ready for an irreversible tooth preparation required to fix porcelain veneers.  

Teeth Whitening 

Teeth whitening improves the shade of your teeth. Natural teeth discolor for various reasons, like lifestyle or consuming specific food. Teeth whitening uses bleaching gels and dental lasers.[8] Full-mouth teeth whitening in Tijuana costs the lowest, at just $180. On the other hand, Zoom whitening requires low-power dental lasers and will cost you $350. While it seems relatively expensive, the method offers effective results in a shorter time.

Orthodontic Treatment 

You also get braces or clear aligners for correcting the misalignment issues of teeth in Tijuana. They shift the teeth gradually by applying pressure and improving the alignment. While braces are visible metal wires, clear aligners are hardly visible to the naked eye. 

Periodontic Treatment

Cosmetic dental treatments that treat gum problems fall under periodontics. Oversized or irregular gum lines can make teeth look short and boxy. Gum reshaping involves a minor surgical procedure to remove the excess gum tissue and add symmetry to the gum line. The best dentists in Tijuana charge $180 per tooth for gum contouring. Marietta Dental Clinic also offers deep cleaning for teeth, which can cost $60 per quadrant.  

General Dentistry in Tijuana 

The highly qualified general dentists of Tijuana also offer regular cleanings, extractions, fillings, and dental bonding. Traveling far for simple procedures isn’t a practical choice. You can get these procedures for a friend or a family member who accompanies you as you take the extensive procedures. Opting for dental care in Tijuana can help your family, too. Below is a table outlining the prices for the general dental treatments in Tijuana.

Dental Treatment Cost in Tijuana

Dental Treatment

Cost in Tijuana

Regular tooth cleaning*

$35

Deep cleaning*

$60

Simple tooth extraction 

$50

Surgical tooth extraction

$80

Filling (Single surface)

$50

Filling (Double surface)

$60

*Per mouth

#Prices vary with the case

Dental Care in Tijuana: Treatment Options
Dental Care in Tijuana: Treatment Options

How Much Can I Save on Dental Work in Tijuana?

The dentist in Tijuana prices are quite affordable compared with those at the Stateside dentist's office. Choosing the best clinics in Tijuana will save you anywhere up to 85% on dental work. Below, we tabulated the savings on Tijuana dental work.

Savings on dental work in Tijuana 

Dental Treatment 

Tijuana Price

US Price

Savings in Tijuana

Dental implants 

$1,550

$5,500

72%

Dental crowns

$450

$2,000

78%

Dental veneers

$400

$1,200

70%

Teeth whitening

$180

$300

40%

Teeth extraction 

$50

$300

83%

Gum contouring 

$180

$350

50%

Root canal therapy

$220

$2,000

80%

#Savings may vary with treatment and intensity of dental problems.

Savings on dental work in Tijuana
Savings on dental work in Tijuana 

Is It Safe To Go to Tijuana for Dental Work?

It's natural for dental tourists to worry about safety concerns when getting dental care abroad. However, getting dental services in Tijuana, Mexico, is safe when you approach the right dental professional. Note that mishaps happen anywhere in the world. Even an American dentist can ruin your teeth if he is underqualified. So, the choice of dentist plays an important role in the success of your treatment. We recommend you find a qualified and best dentist in Tijuana close to border. Relying on advanced dental technology allows qualified dentists to attain precise results. Our partner Tijuana dental clinics work especially for dental tourists. They adhere to global safety standards and maintain perfect hygiene. 

Regarding location safety, we advise you to be a focused dental tourist in Tijuana. Do not stroll around at night, and exercise caution regarding food and drink spikes. Be aware of your surroundings and check out the safe travel options before planning your dental trip. Some dental clinics also offer shuttle transport and airport pick-ups. Check out your clinic offerings and make a wise decision. Suppose you are worried about what to do if something goes wrong with your dental work in Tijuana. Don’t worry—we’ve covered it for you.

What if Something Goes Wrong With Dental Work in Tijuana?

If your dental work results in unexpected consequences, don’t hesitate to contact your dental provider. Many of the best dentists in Tijuana offer a warranty on selected treatments, which showcases their commitment to patient well-being. However, as a patient, it's essential to know about the necessary aftercare measures and be aware of any warning signs related to your treatment. Note that dental care can go wrong anywhere in the world, even in the United States. All you need to do is reach out to the top dental professionals and discuss your dental and overall health conditions transparently. Plus, following the right post-treatment care also plays its part. While your dentist will brief you on treatment-related queries, we at Envoy Health will guide you to find the best for your dental work in Tijuana.

How To Get Dental Work in Tijuana, Mexico?

Getting dental work in Tijuana, Mexico, is simple. You should start by conducting thorough research to find the best Mexican dental clinics

  • Approach your friends and colleagues. Remember, referrals work great in your initial periods of research. 
  • Find out the reputed clinic websites and social media platforms. Rely on dental clinic Tijuana reviews to estimate the quality of care. 
  • Carefully verify dentist qualifications, professional memberships, and clinic accreditations. Also, look at the sterilization and hygiene standards followed there. 
  • Book an initial virtual consultation with the dentist you selected. Discuss your dental problem and ask any treatment-related questions. Then, get a detailed price quote and tentative treatment plan.
  • Compare the prices among some of the top providers you listed during your initial research steps. Consider price inclusions and other miscellaneous costs. Remember that the dental work in Tijuana prices are neither exorbitant nor too cheap. 
  • Take enough time to assess the pros and cons of the choice. Consider treatment timeline, follow-up care, travel logistics, accommodation options, and price inclusions. 
  • Schedule your appointment and plan your travel. Make bookings for flights and hotel stays if needed. 
  • Procure the papers related to treatment, previous medical and dental history, and dental insurance. Carry all the documents related to border entry-exit procedures.
Various steps in getting Dental Work in Tijuana, Mexico
Various steps in getting Dental Work in Tijuana, Mexico

Scroll further down to learn about the essential travel tips to reach Tijuana for dental work.

Information for Tijuana Dental Tourists 

Tijuana is a short drive from the Californian city of San Diego. To reach Tijuana, one must cross the border at the San Ysidro entry port, which is just 4 miles away. Remember to carry a valid passport card or book, driver's license, and automobile registration papers. Note that you will need to FMMD only when you live for more than three days beyond the border region. Don’t forget to collect it at the Mexican airport or while crossing the border at San Ysidro port. Check out the border wait times before planning your travel. It can extend to several hours during busy days. To deal with this, you may park your vehicle on the US side of the border and walk down the entry port. Many dental clinics in Tijuana offer transport shuttles from the border. 

Source: Travel.State.Gov[9], Calmattres[10] 

Additional information: While Tijuana is a safe place, following the basic safety measures assures security. Stay in well-lit areas and avoid remote locations. Stick to the well-established tourist routes; it's better to keep up with the crowd. Do not move around at night, and keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid flashy outfits, and never leave your food and drinks unattended in local restaurants. 

While Tijuana is famous for its vibrant nightlife, many dental tourists walk around the busy streets, searching for the finest dental clinics. The key to successful treatment outcomes is finding a reliable dental provider. Don’t worry since this process is overly taxing. Contact reputed and trusted dental tourism websites. Check out their offerings and real patient experiences. At Envoy Health, we offer support at every step. We minimize your burden by providing you access to professionally vetted dentists and clinics. We help you with the necessary paperwork from the beginning till you reach the clinic and get your treatment. What is still stopping you? Experience our dedicated support at every turn. Sign up for our platform and take confident strides towards better dental health.  

References 

  1. Americans’ Challenges with Health Care Costs
  2. Where outside America has the best dental clinics
  3. Contemporary Concepts in Osseointegration of Dental Implants: A Review
  4. Retrospective clinical study of tooth‐supported single crowns: A multifactor analysis
  5. Dental Bridges for Partial Tooth Loss
  6. Factors Affecting Root Canal Treatment Outcomes: A Systematic Review 
  7. Tooth whitening procedures: A narrative review 
  8. Mexico International Travel Information
  9. ‘Devastating’ wait times at Mexico border strain California small businesses

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor before starting any treatments.

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    Frequently asked questions

    You will need to research well and look for trusted dental clinics to find a good dentist in Tijuana. You may also rely on referrals from your friends, family, or colleagues who underwent recent dental work in Tijuana.

     

     

    Planning a dental trip to Tijuana is a worthy decision. Tijuana dental clinics offer the finest dental care and have some of the best-qualified dental professionals. They utilize advanced dental technology for the benefit of patients. Further, some reputed clinics offer all-inclusive prices on accommodation, shuttle transport, and initial consultations. In addition, you can enjoy a tranquility-studded vacation with your loved ones on your dental trip in Tijuana. 

     

     

     The cost of dental work in Tijuana depends on your dental problem and the type of treatment you require. While Tijuana dental prices are low compared to the States, you can expect anywhere between 75-85% savings on treatment.   

     

     

    Dental implants in Tijuana cost starts at $1,550, including an implant, abutment, and crown. The cost of full-mouth implants begins at $7,500 and can go as high as $14,500 in Tijuana. The exact cost depends on the extent of tooth loss and the type and brand of implants. The best part is that you can expect price inclusions for hotel stays and local transport on Tijuana dental implants.    

     

     

    Dentist in Tijuana prices are quite cheaper than those at the Stateside dental office. One can save up to 85% on various dental procedures in Tijuana, Mexico. Plus you can expect additional amenities like transport shuttles and hotel stays covered by all-inclusive deals.

     

    Dental care in Tijuana, Mexico, is cheaper primarily because of Mexico’s low cost of living. Maintaining dental clinics would not be a burden for dentists in Tijuana. Plus, the salaries for medical staff are also quite low, making Tijuana dental care more affordable.

     

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