November 27, 2023

Your Guide to Dental Implants in Mexico

When a patient suffers from tooth decay, periodontal disease, infection, injury, or any other issue related to tooth loss, dental implants are the go-to restorative service to replace missing or broken teeth.

The process of how dental implants work is pretty simple: the implant, which is a metallic screw, is placed into or onto the jawbone, and it replaces the patient’s natural tooth root. The bone and the implants fuse in a process called osseointegration. Once in place, dental implants function like natural teeth as the titanium post integrates with the jawbone to provide a stable anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants are fixed and stable, unlike dentures, which rest on the bone.

Benefits of Dental Implants:

When you have missing teeth, dental implants will benefit your smile and oral health immediately. These are some of the advantages you can expect from getting dental implants:

  • Appearance and Confidence Improved
    After you get dental implants, the final result will look and feel like natural teeth. You will not have to worry about losing it while eating or speaking since the implant will fuse to the jawbone.
  • Preservation of Bone Density
    Dental implants protect the bone when they are replacing a missing tooth. After tooth loss, the bone that surrounds the empty tooth socket starts to deteriorate and weaken, causing the jawbone to lose its volume and density. Inserting implants into the jawbone ensures that the bone continues to get the stimulation necessary to preserve its structure.
  • Keeps the surrounding bone and gums healthy
    Dental implants make flushing and brushing very easy. This is because the implanted teeth feel like natural teeth, so the patient can brush and floss thoroughly.
    Patients will not need to change their oral hygiene routine due to the structure of dental implants.
  • Prevent the Loss of Other Teeth
    Dental implants help stimulate the growth of new bone, which benefits the jawbone and the remaining teeth.
  • Improves quality of life
    Besides improving self-esteem and oral health, the patient will feel no discomfort at all from having implants in the bone. Furthermore, it will be easier to eat as they will recover their chewing process. No more having to worry when opening your mouth!

Dental Implant Procedure in Mexico:

Generally, the timeline for dental implant procedures spans 2–3 appointments.
It needs to be assessed thoroughly and tailored to each patient.

First Appointment:
The first part of the dental procedure consists of an initial visit to Mexico Dental Implants, which typically takes between 5 and 12 days, after which the dental implant is placed. The patient will be provided with a temporary prosthesis (artificial teeth) to ensure regular eating habits can continue without inconvenience.

Second Appointment:
This follow-up appointment, set for 3-6 months after the initial visit, could take up to 5 days and includes placing porcelain teeth or dentures.

An additional appointment may be necessary if bone graft surgery is part of your dental implant procedure.

Additional information about dental procedures in Mexico

Does it hurt to get dental implants?
It does not hurt to get dental implants. Before starting the procedure, anesthesia is given to make the area numb, and the patient will not feel anything.
As in most dental procedures, there is usually swelling and pain for the first 72 hours after the surgery. The patient will receive appropriate medication to lessen the pain and swelling.

How many trips to Mexico will be needed to complete the dental procedure?
In general, patients need two trips to Mexico to complete the dental implant procedure. During the first trip, patients undergo the procedure. A few months later, during the second trip, the dentist will place the crowns.
In the case of same-day implants, patients will require a single trip with 2 to 3 appointments.

When can the patient go to work after implant surgery?
Patients can go to work after an implant surgery depending on the patient and how invasive and extensive the procedure is.
Generally, patients may need a day or two off for minimally invasive procedures such as bone grafts and up to a week for complex procedures like full mouth restoration.

Is smoking allowed before and after oral surgery for dental implant placement?
Smoking is not allowed before and after oral surgery for dental implant placement. Smoking is one of the main reasons for implant failure.
Nicotine reduces the flow of blood to the place that needs nutrients and oxygen from the blood. Even before the patient gets implants, smoking can affect oral health.

a graphic of denture implant procedure

Types of Dental Implant Options in Mexico

SINGLE
(to replace single dental pieces)
MULTIPLE
(to replace up to three missing pieces)
FULL MOUTH
(to replace a full arch)
In the case of patients who are missing a single tooth, one implant will be inserted in the site and topped with a dental crown. When the patient is missing multiple teeth, at least two implants will be inserted in the jaw. Then, a dental bridge will be placed on these implants. Full mouth reconstruction involves replacing all the teeth that are missing or damaged in the patient’s mouth.
Procedures like All on 4, All on 6, and All on 8 are commonly used for full mouth reconstruction.
Zirconia and Titanium Dental Implants

Depending on the material, there are different options when getting dental implants: zirconia or titanium. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each material:

ZIRCONIA DENTAL IMPLANTS
PROS CONS
  • Has low bacterial attraction
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Metal-free
  • Has an aesthetic advantage
  • It’s prone to micro-cracks
  • Has limited flexibility
  • Higher implant failure rates
TITANIUM DENTAL IMPLANTS
PROS CONS
  • Good osseointegration
  • Long-lasting
  • Lower cost
  • Implant fractures are infrequent.
  • Possible metal allergy
  • Toxicity caused by galvanic reactions
  • A possible discernible gray line beneath the gum line
Zygomatic Dental Implants

Zygomatic dental implants are anchored in the upper jawbone, which is close to the dense zygoma bone. Although they are placed in a different bone than traditional implants, their function is the same: retaining a dental bridge, a dental structure, or a denture.

When are zygomatic dental implants needed?

  • When the patient doesn’t have enough bone for regular implants
  • The patient has deteriorated jaws
  • The patient lost their teeth a long time ago
  • When normal dental implants have failed
  • When sinus lift or bone elevation surgeries have failed

Although the zygomatic dental implant is more affordable and can be done in a single visit, it cannot replace one tooth.

Zygomatic Dental Implants and Sinus Lift

When the maxillary sinus is too close to the implant site, more bone is needed to stabilize the implant. In other cases, there isn’t enough bone to begin with. This means the patient will need a sinus lift, also known as a bone graft.
The healing and fusion process for a sinus lift or bone graft requires a longer duration.

Full Mouth Restoration

Mouth restoration, or reconstruction, is the process of repairing and rebuilding the function and appearance of your mouth using multiple procedures at once.
The procedure typically involves anything from tooth extractions to dental crowns, veneers, dental implants, dental bridges, and more.

Do I need a full-mouth restoration?

Suffering from any of these conditions might make you a candidate for a full-mouth restoration. A specialist at Mexico Dental Implants will guide you in finding the best option for you.

  • Cracked or decaying teeth.
  • Missing teeth.
  • Misaligned teeth.
  • Conditions such as amelogenesis, ectodermal dysplasias, dentinogenesis imperfecta, and other disorders of tooth development.
  • Dental or facial pain.
  • Gum disease.
  • Dental trauma.
  • Periodontal disease.
  • Root canal issues.
  • Stained teeth.
All-on-4 Dental Implants

All-on-4 is a dental implant technique where just four implants replace the upper or lower set of teeth. These four implants act as a support mechanism for the placement of a new set of fixed teeth.
This state-of-the-art teeth-replacement system comes with many benefits:

Health Benefits:

  • All four dental implants create a healthier mouth and restore the patient’s mouth to a more natural state, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.
  • Each time a person loses a tooth, the jawbone loses stimulation, which may cause it to shrink. Dental implants stimulate bone growth to maintain the jaw structure.
  • With All-On-4 implants, a bone graft is not required since the four implants are not limited to a particular location. The implants are placed at different points along the jaw where the bone is denser.

Quick Results and Procedure:

  • The patient’s dentist already has an overview of how to place the implants to support the entire arch of the teeth, so the patient will only need one appointment in a few hours to complete the process.
  • In a short amount of time, the patient will get fully functioning new teeth and will feel improvements in teeth stability, chewing ability, and comfort right away.

Better Function, Easy Maintenance, and Stability:

  • The all-on-4 dental implants will never fall out when eating or talking. The procedure uses four implants for each arch to secure a hybrid denture. The implants keep the prosthetic teeth anchored to the jawbone.
  • The patient will be able to enjoy their favorite foods and even have more strength for chewing.
  • The All-on-4 implants can be cleaned just like normal teeth, with no need to be removed.

Appearance:

  • All-on-4 dental implants can help you have a natural smile and even look younger.
  • All-on-4 implants create a permanent set of teeth with a non-removable implant-supported retained bridge. This means your dental implants will never have to be removed, giving you a lifetime smile.
All-on-4 Dental Implants vs.Traditional Dental Implants
Traditional Dental Implants
All-On-4 Dental Implants
  • Require between four and eight individual implants.
  • Require multiple surgeries with a long recovery between each one.
  • The implants are removable. The smile will look natural
  • Inserted by screw into the jaw. Once the jaw heals, it integrates the implants into the bone.
  • May require at least two surgeries to install.
  • The implant requires different surgeries, so recovery time may be longer.
  • The implant requires different surgeries, so recovery time may be longer.
  • Require four implants.
  • The implants can be installed in a day.
  • The implants are removable. The smile will look natural
  • Implants are not removable. The smile will look natural.
  • The implants hold a complete set of replacement teeth and are positioned at an angle, which is especially useful for those who have lost bone in their jaws.
  • Can be installed in one day.
  • The expected recovery period is about one week.

You can learn more about dental implants from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

Why get dental implants in Mexico?

When considering dental health, patients seek optimal treatments and specialized professionals, recognizing the significance of a radiant smile as a key aspect of their presentation. For those residing in the US or Canada who suffer from missing or damaged teeth, dental implants in Mexico may present an attractive solution. In addition to accessing high-quality dental care, patients can have significant financial savings, reducing the money stress linked to these important healthcare procedures.
Continue reading to learn everything you should know about getting dental implants in Mexico.

Every year, millions of people choose Mexico as a destination for medical treatments. These are some of the main reasons:

    • Affordability

Cheaper costs are the main reason why people from the US and Canada choose Mexico for medical and dental treatments. With exponential savings of up to 70% of US and Canadian prices, choosing Mexico for dental implants is a no-brainer.
If you’re curious about the big price gap, it’s because things cost less in Mexico. Living and running expenses are lower there compared to the US.

    • High Quality

Cheaper does not always mean worse. Clinics in Mexico use the best dental implants on the market and top implant brands.

    • Advanced Technology

In order to keep up with the US and Canada, dental clinics in Mexico use state-of-the-art technology, which leads to safer and faster treatments.

    • Easy Travel

If you come from the US, Mexico is a proximal location that borders the US. You can board a short flight or even drive there. Due to proximity, travel time and costs are low. For instance, Tijuana is only 20 miles away from San Diego, California, and it’s only a 30-minute drive. Los Algodones is a 20-minute drive from Yuma, Arizona, to name a few.

    • Experienced Dentists

Being in good hands is essential for dental treatments. Mexican dentists are just as qualified as those in the US, so there’s no need to be concerned. Many Mexican dentists are trained in the United States and are part of international dental groups based in the US.

    • No Communication Problems

Mexican dentists help people from both nearby and other countries. They speak fluent English to make sure everyone has a good experience.

    • Tourist Location

With all the money you saved by getting dental implants in Mexico, you now have the opportunity to treat yourself to a vacation while you’re here! Mexico is famous for its top-notch resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural attractions, making it a delightful way to conclude your trip.

Is it safe to get dental implants in Mexico?

Safety concerns are always present, especially with medical issues. Having a bad experience with a doctor or a procedure not going well can happen anywhere, no matter which country you’re in.

No matter what part of the world you are in, doing previous research is key to feeling and being safe when it comes to practically anything, especially medical procedures.

Some important things to look for:

  • Required licenses and accreditations
  • Credible online reviews and testimonials from other patients
  • Provable experience and qualifications
  • International standards of sterilization
  • English-speaking staff or multilingual

As regards security, there are parts of Mexico that aren’t recommended for tourists, but the border towns and popular tourist destinations are safe and cater to foreign dental patients.

How much are dental implants in Mexico?

Please note that costs are approximated.

In Mexico, a titanium dental implant costs around $650, and a zirconia dental implant starts at around $1,270. On the other hand, a titanium dental implant in the US and Canada costs around $5,000, while a zirconia dental implant is around $5,500.

Moreover, a bone graft can cost about $400 in Mexico and more than $1,600 in the US.
By getting a dental implant in Mexico instead of the USA or Canada, you can save between 50 and 70%.At Mexico Dental Implants, we’re so confident in our work that we offer a US warranty on all of our treatments. Learn more about affordable dental implants in Mexico.

Cost of Dental Implants in Mexico vs. the USA

These are the average prices after comparing 600 dental clinics from all over Mexico with those from the United States and Canada.

PROCEDURE US CANADA MEXICO
Titanium implant + Abutment + Crown $8,200 $7,500 $2,000
Titanium implant + abutment $6,200 $6,000 $900
Titanium implant only $5,300 $5,000 $900
Zirconia implant $6,200 $6,000 $1,500
Zygomatic Implant $32,200 $30,000 $3,000
All-on-4 (per jaw) $24,200 $22,500 $5,000
All-on-6 (per jaw) $28,200 $26,200 $7,000
All-on-8 (per jaw) $35,300 $32,200 $8,600
Same-day implant + crown $5,200 $5,000 $1,600
Porcelain Crown $2,000 $2,000 $500
Snap-on denture (2 – 4 implants) $9,000 $8,600 $2,500
Bone Graft (per unit) $2,000 $1,700 $4500
Sinus Lift (starts from) $4,000 $3,700 $850

Dental Implants in Mexico Reviews

Check out the latest Google reviews for dental implants at our Guadalajara Clinic:

‘’Fantastic surgeon with incredible skills and knowledge. I would trust him with any of my dental needs. His ability to treat whole mouth implant cases on four is second to none.’’
Richard Lee

Useful Travel Tips for Mexico

How to get there:

By Car
If you live near the border, there are a few cities you can drive to and cut your expenses.
Take a look at the distances from some nearby cities in the US to border towns in Mexico:

Mexican Border
City/Town
Nearest American City Distance Driving
Time
Tijuana San Diego, CA 20,2 miles 29 minutes
Los Algodones Yuma, AZ 11,5 miles 22 minutes
Mexicali Calexico, CA 6,1 miles 18 minutes
Ciudad Juárez El Paso, TX 11 miles 23 minutes
Nogales Nogales, AZ 3,2 miles 14 minutes
Nuevo Laredo Laredo, TX 4,7 miles 21 minutes
Nuevo Progreso Progreso, TX 3,6 miles 13 minutes

By Plane
You will find plenty of daily low-cost flights from US or Mexican airlines.
Direct and short flights are available from some cities such as San Antonio, TX; Phoenix, AZ; Los Angeles, CA; and more.
If you’re flying from Canada, flying from Calgary, AB; Vancouver, BC; or Toronto, ON are great options.

photo of airplane in the sky
Visa & Documents:
woman at the airport with passport and documents in hand

For Canadian and US citizens, a visa is not required if you stay for less than 180 days.
You will need:

  • A valid passport (you should carry a hard copy and a soft copy of your passport)
  • Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) You can get it online. You will be asked for the FMM when you leave Mexico, so don’t lose it, or you will have to pay a fine.
  • If you’re planning to drive to a border city, make sure you have Mexican auto insurance and a valid driving license.
More useful travel tips for Mexico:
  • The US dollar is commonly used in Mexico, but it’s a good idea to have some local currency for small purchases.
  • The weather in Mexico can be different in various places, so it’s essential to be careful and take the right steps to stay safe. If you travel during the summer months, make sure to pack a hat, sunscreen, cotton clothes, and drink lots of water.
  • Try to drink only filtered water.
  • Avoid wearing valuable jewelry and watches.
  • Get in touch with your mobile phone company to find out about coverage and call charges for Mexico.

For more information about traveling to Mexico, visit the U.S. Department of State: Consular Affairs.

Top Mexican Cities for Dental Implants

With more than 2000 options, finding a suitable dental clinic in Mexico can be challenging.
Here are some of the best options for implant clinics in Mexico:

Here, patients will find a team of highly skilled dentists and dental implant experts who are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care and creating beautiful, healthy smiles for every patient.
This modern dental clinic is located in the heart of Guadalajara and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and the latest amenities.

Guadalajara is the biggest city and the main city of the Mexican state of Jalisco. It’s in the middle part of western Mexico.
Besides having great dental services, Guadalajara gives visitors a lively and culturally exciting time. It’s famous for being where Mariachi music and tequila originated. When you go to Guadalajara, you’ll feel and experience Mexican culture through its history, traditions, and unique atmosphere. The city blends old customs with modern life, making it a special place with lots of amazing things to do and see.

Guadalajara

If you’re searching for a reliable and experienced dental clinic in Guadalajara, look no further than Guadalajara Dental Clinic by Mexico Dental Implants.

view of the Guadalajara Historic Centre
Cancun

A resort city overlooking the ocean can be a great destination for a dental procedure. You get to enjoy a vacation next to see and relax after the treatment.

Cancun is a famous place for beach vacations, and it may be the best example for dental tourism: going on vacation, while undergoing dental work.

drone view of Cancun beach and city

Due to its proximity, Cancun is an ideal destination when choosing a destination for dental tourism. Its proximity, infrastructure, and air connectivity place this city as a top destination for dental procedures.

Ciudad Juarez

Ciudad Juarez neighbors El Paso, Texas, and is only a 20-minute drive.

Depending on where you are in Texas and the traffic, you can drive to Ciudad Juarez in a day. The city has numerous dental clinics providing implant services, offering both convenience and high-quality care.

night view of El Paso TX

Depending on where you are in Texas and the traffic, you can drive to Ciudad Juarez in a day. The city has numerous dental clinics providing implant services, offering both convenience and high-quality care.

FAQs on Dental Implants

Why is dentistry so affordable in Mexico?

Dentistry is affordable in Mexico because the living expenses here are lower, so staff wages are also lower. Additionally, dentists in Mexico don’t have high student loans like in the United States because of government support. Office space is also more affordable in Mexico.
The average cost of dental implants in Mexico can be up to 50–70% cheaper than in the US.

Will my insurance cover my dental implant from Mexico?

Insurance may or may not cover dental implants from Mexico.
While a few Mexican dentists can send the bill to your insurance, most cannot. Nevertheless, they’ll gladly help you with the paperwork so you can submit it yourself. Ask your insurance company about possible insurance coverage.

Do dental implants in Mexico come with a guarantee?

Dental Implants in Mexico may or may not come with a guarantee. Some dental clinics offer guarantees, and others don’t. We recommend asking the clinic beforehand.
Mexico Dental Implants’ vetted clinics guarantee the implants’ procedures and service and offer the option to correct any implants in the U.S.

Do Mexican offices use modern, high-tech equipment for dental implants?

Mexican offices do use modern, high-tech equipment for dental implants. Our ​​Guadalajara Dental Clinic and Implant Center offers all these at affordable prices. Our experienced teams of dentists are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and offer affordable solutions for your teeth. The first step is to examine your teeth and learn more about the goals you have for your smile. Options will then be presented, and you can decide the route you want to take.

How long will dental implants from Mexico last?

Dental implants from Mexico usually last between 10 to 30 years on average. So, if you get one when you’re younger, it’s likely to stay with you for your whole life. Other choices for replacing teeth don’t usually last as long. The survival rate of an implant depends on multiple factors, including your age, jawbone structure, thickness, whether you smoke or not, etc.

Is it safe to have dental implants at a clinic in Mexico?

It is safe to have dental implants at a clinic in Mexico. There is a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to the safety of Mexican dental tourism. Indeed, some places in Mexico may not be good for tourists, but the towns near the border and the places many tourists visit are safe, and they welcome people coming for dental care. Still, problems can happen anywhere, so it’s important to pick your dentist or clinic wisely.

For Everything You Should Know About Getting Dental Work and Implants in Mexico Dental Implants see more FAQs.

Getting low-cost dental implants in Mexico is easy and accessible. Receive treatment at clinics accredited by the US for 50- 70% less than in the US!
Mexico Dental Implants offers affordable dental implants and All-On-4 in Mexico with the United States’ highest standards, financing, and guarantee. Contact us to improve your life and your smile today!