Dental work in Tijuana, Mexico is affordable and can be of top quality. What to expect when visiting the dentist south of San Diego borders?

Read on to know all aspects: costs, safety concerns as well as tips on a successful dental tourism trip.

Video: DentaVacation

Tijuana, MX is a metropolitan city that shares its border with San Diego, California, in the USA.

Cost of Dental Work in Tijuana, MX

The cost of dental work in Tijuana is on average 70% lower than in the USA. For some procedures, savings could be much more. For example, an all-on 4 implant costs $8,500 in Tijuana instead of the USA, where it can be between $24,000 and $50,000! Below is the price list of popular dental procedures that Americans travel there for:

*Denture only, no other costs included

These are just a few examples of how affordable dental care can be when you visit Tijuana! If this sounds like something, you would want to take advantage of, contact us today and find out what our team of experts has in store for you!

Why Dental Work Costs Less in Tijuana?

There are many reasons why dental work is cheaper in Tijuana than in the US. It’s because of lower salaries of staff and dentists, building costs, no need for medical liability insurance, lower student loans of dentists, lower dental laboratory costs, and lower taxes. For a detailed explanation, read below:

Subsidized Dental Education

The Mexican government provides dental education at subsidized prices. ^[2]The San Fernando Valley Affordable Dentistry Services in Foreign Countries Very Appealing to US Customers. “…Why such a dramatic difference? For one, dental education in a public dental institution in Mexico is free or subsidized because of government support. In return, the graduating dentist there provides a year of free dental community service, but often doesn’t start his or her career saddled with debt. By contrast, US dentists can leave school with $150,000 or more in loans to repay…” View in Article
As there are is no debt on the dentists, it heavily reduces the chances of overcharging their service.

Strong Dollar Conversion Rate

The US dollar holds a strong position as compared to a Mexican Peso. So, even the costlier dental procedures in Mexico seem cheaper to an American.

Lower Cost of Living in Mexico

As compared to the USA, Mexican standards of living are not so high. People prefer simple living, and the US dollar conversion rate also plays its part.^[3]International Living Cost of living in Mexico “…But whatever their initial remarks may include, they all agree: Your money buys more south of the border…and that makes for a decidedly comfortable living…” View in Article

Partner Dental Clinics in Tijuana, Mexico

Smile Builders, Tijuana

Smile Builders® is our partner dental clinic in Tijuana, Mexico. It houses more than 18 experienced and specialized dentists.

Interview with Dr Guevara- Senior Dentist at Smile Builders, TJ, MX

Clinic Highlights:

• It is located just 2.5 miles from the US border.
• Flexible appointments.
• Same-day appointments are available for dental emergencies.
• Equipped with state-of-the-art technology like CEREC CAD/CAM.
• It accepts US PPO dental insurance policies. Contact our case managers for more information.
• Easy payment options like Cash, Paypal, VISA, Mastercard & other credit & debit cards.
• Near the hotel zone.  Some suggested hotels are: Quartz Hotel | Hotel City Express Plus | Hotel Lucerna

Dental Brush in Tijuana

Dental Brush, Tijuana is a multispeciality dental clinic providing personalized dental care.

Dental Brush Team

Clinic Highlights:

• A state-of-the-art facility like CEREC CAD/CAM and laser technology
• It follows the recommended safety standards by OSHA, CDC, and Environment Protection Agency.
• Flexible appointments
• Free shuttle service
• 5% discount on cash payments
• Easy payment options: Bank money order, Cashier’s check or Traveler’s checks, Visa or Master Card

Why choose DentaVacation?

Dentavacation is an online repository of renowned dental clinics and hospitals around the world.

DV highlights:

• 14+ years of experience in the industry
• High patient success rate. See our patient testimonials here.
• Multiple dental partners across the globe
• Optional direct pre-trip consultation with the dentist
• Negotiated discount prices
• Assistance in arranging passports and visa
• Help with tourism-related activities
• Bilingual Support

Is Tijuana safe for Tourists?

Although there may be reports of theft and gang wars in Tijuana, with proper planning, one can have a safe trip.

Some safety measures:

• Don’t flash valuables in public
• Use app-based cab services for travel, like Uber.
• Pickpockets may distract using kids selling flowers. Be aware.
• Avoid travel to risky areas in and outside Tijuana.^[4]US Travel State Gov Mexico Travel Advisory “Do Not Travel To Colima state…” View in Article

Emergency Numbers while in Tijuana: 911

If you dial 911 from a U.S. cell phone in Mexico, it will connect you to Mexico’s Emergency Assistance Service.

Travel Tips:

• Carry a valid passport.
• Keep all your documents like FMM, Passport, etc. safely
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enroller Program to receive safety alerts
• Book your hotel close to the clinic for ease of travel.
• Wear comfortable shoes while going for sight-seeing.
• Drink packaged drinking water- carry a bottle with you when you go touring.
• Shopping complexes and some shops have restrooms- they may charge some money.
• Do try the famous ‘fish tacos’ in Tijuana.
• Currency: Pesos
• Language: Spanish

Dental Tourism in Tijuana

Tijuana is a modern city showcasing the rich Mexican culture. You can drive down for a day trip or fly to TIJ (Tijuana International Airport). There are buses and taxis from the airport to the rest of the city.

How to Reach Tijuana, Mexico?

As Tijuana is located on the US-Mexico border, you can use multiple options to reach the city.

Walking through the border:

Most people prefer walking through the border as it saves the hassles of driving and parking.^[6]Smart Travel
Walking, Tijuana – Transportation
“When travelling from the United States to Tijuana, many people prefer to walk across the border rather than deal with the headaches associated with driving….”
View in Article 

• From San Diego downtown, take a trolley San Ysidro which is just 15 miles away.
• Cross the border on foot (15-20 minutes walk)
• Hire a cab to enter the city

Handy Tips for crossing the border on foot:

• Once you leave the USA border, you will need a valid US passport to re-enter the country.
• As you reach Mexico, you have to pass through a red/green light stand.
• A green light means you can pass; however, a red light means that the customs officers need to search your luggage.
• If you drive to the border from San Diego, leave your car in the paid parking on the US side.

Driving through the border

Some people would prefer their car while entering Mexico. Remember, you need to have a valid Mexican Car Insurance^[7]Mexico Insurance Professionals Mexico Car Insurance for tourists driving into Mexico…and more. “…Get My Quotes Now.” View in Article
if you drive your car here.

Flying to Tijuana

How to Get to Tijuana Airport from San Diego?

You can fly to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ), fill out the Forma Migratoria Multiple form (FMM) form available on your airport terminal.

Keep this safely with you as you will need it while returning to the USA.

CBX Cross Border Xpress

It is a bridge-way crossing that is exclusively for Tijuana International Airport passengers who cross the border between the United States and Mexico.

Places to visit in Tijuana

Tijuana Cultural Center

CECUT, Tijuana

• CECUT, as its known, promotes art and culture through programs and shows.
• It houses a museum, theatre space, performances, exhibits, an aquarium, and a garden as well.

Playas de Tijuana

Playas de Tijuana

• This beachside boardwalk is famous for cafes and bars.
• There is also live music with dancing.
• Surfers also come here to catch waves.

El Popo Market

It is a Mexican market with fruits, vegetables, souvenirs, pottery, and candles.

Common Spanish Phrases to Learn

Some common phrases that will help you in Tijuana:

• Good morning- Buenos días
• Say Buenas tardes for Good afternoon
• Good evening- Buenas Noches
• Please- Por favor
• Thank you- Gracías
• How much does it cost? – Cuánto cuesta?

Patient Testimonial

Patient, Viridiana Rosas from Portland, USA, shares her experience with Dental Brush in Tijuana. She is very happy with the affordable dental treatment in Tijuana, Mexico.

For more information on dental tourism in Tijuana, Contact us!