Cost of Dental Implants Too Expensive: Should I Go to Another Country?

David asks:

I am a retiree. The cost of an implant (or bridge) is beyond my means and too expensive in the US for me. I am seeing implants in other countries, like Mexico and Costa Rica for 1/3 the cost. Is there any evidence that these are substandard or dangerous?

Answered by: Dr. Carlos Boudet

West Palm Beach, FL

Hi David,

I can empathize with your situation. I see the cost issue in my practice frequently.

There's no doubt that dental implants are an expensive procedure here in the US, but in terms of going to another country for implants, here are some concerns that I have that you may find helpful in making your decision.

The first thing to consider is that implants are usually placed in two stages. The first stage is the surgical placement and the second stage is the restoration of the implants with dentures, crowns or bridges.

Years of experience have taught us that for implants to be successful, they must be planned properly by the restoring dentist, and if the surgical placement is done without proper planning, you are likely to have problems during the restorative phase or even cause early failure of the implants due to improper design. So if you go out of the country for dental implants (and I assume you will not be staying there for the restorative phase of your treatment), it is critical that strong communication is maintained by your restorative dentist here in the US and the dentist performing the surgery in another country.

A second concern, I have, is that, unless you will be traveling alot, you would have the implant work done by one doctor outside the US and then have to rely on a different doctor in the US to take care of any problems that arise. This could cause numerous issues, as you might imagine.

A third concern is, of course, the quality of the work, as you suggested. The key here is for you to do solid research before choosing an dentist.

You should do more research and look at:

1. What brands of implants are being used.
2. Whether both surgical and prosthetic phases will be planned and done by the same doctor.
3. Most importantly, it is vital to check out the reputation of the doctor or clinic. Testimonials from patients or some friends that recommend the services is critical.

I still feel strongly that your best chances of success and long term satisfaction with implants are achieved when the work is done and maintained by doctors you trust and visit regularly in your community. So don't be shy about asking for financing and other payment alternatives.

Don't forget that your investment in implants require adequate regular maintenance at the local dentist's office.

Good luck, this is a good question, and I hope the issues I raised have provided you the information you need to arrive at the best decision for you.

Carlos Boudet, DDS, DICOI
http://www.boudetdds.com