Looking to fix your cracked and chipped teeth within budget? Cosmetic Dentistry in Costa Rica will offer you a solution! You can save up to 80% for the smile you always wanted! Explore this ultimate guide for more information on the cost and procedure.
Brighter Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s lush green landscapes and mesmerizing waterfalls attract travelers worldwide. Surprisingly, this Central American gem is also a popular smile makeover destination.
Benefits of Choosing Costa Rica for Cosmetic Dentistry
The various persuasive reasons to opt for Costa Rica are:
Costa Rica has an excellent healthcare system and bagged 96 points out of 100. In addition, it stood 3rd in the Healthcare category of the Annual Global Retirement Index (2020).[1]
Dental work in Costa Rica is far cheaper than in the US. You can save upto 80% on cosmetic dental treatments.
This is mainly attributed to lower Costa Rican living costs than the US.[2] Additionally, expenses like food and transportation are also low.
So you don’t have to worry about draining your savings on the dental tour.
Dentists in Costa Rica are highly skilled and qualified. They hold over 20+ years of experience and deliver exceptional results.
Besides, many of them are members of prestigious organizations like ADA and AAID.
Our partner clinics follow exceptional quality standards and sterilization protocols.
They rely on advanced technology like CEREC: Primescan, CBCT, and CAD/CAM for the best results. Besides, they also have onsite labs, which can reduce the waiting times.
Why Costa Rica for Cosmetic Dentistry?
Costa Rica is easily reachable by flight. Many major US cities have direct flights to the two international airports.
You can look for affordable airfares and get the best dental care in Costa Rica.
Being an international patient, you might be anxious about communication. However, the staff at our partner clinics is bilingual. They speak Spanish and English fluently.
This will facilitate easier communication, ensuring you a stress-free experience!
A dental tour to Costa Rica can make you fall in love with its sandy beaches and tropical rainforests.
You can go hiking, bird watching, and river rafting for a fun dental vacation.
Furthermore, the benefits don’t end there. The cost of cosmetic dental services is still more appealing and worth considering.
Keep scrolling down to discover the savings you can enjoy!
Cost of Cosmetic Dentistry in Costa Rica
Cosmetic dental treatment in Costa Rica is far more affordable than in the US. By opting for a smile makeover here, you can make savings between 23 to 80%.
This is evident from the reasonable cost of dental implants in Costa Rica.
For instance, a single implant costs you $2,160 in Costa Rica. This is almost half the price of that in the US, which is $5,000.
Besides, a single porcelain crown in Costa Rica costs $550. However, the same would cost you $1,800 in the US, and this is three times higher!
Furthermore, a single veneer costs you $440 in Costa Rica and $2,500 in the US. Check out the table below to know the savings you can make in Costa Rica.
| Dental procedure | US | Costa Rica | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Titanium implant* | $5,000 | $2,160 | 57% |
| Porcelain crown^ | $1,800 | $550 | 69% |
| Ceramic crown^ | $1,500 | $550 | 63% |
| Porcelain veneers^ | $2,500 | $440 | 82% |
| Bridge (Traditional) | $3,500 | $550 | 84% |
| Teeth whitening (Home kit) | $300 | $230 | 23% |
| Teeth whitening (In office) | $650 | $330 | 49% |
| Teeth whitening (Laser) | $1,500 | $330 | 78% |
| Composite bonding | $270 | $120 | 55% |
| Inlay/Onlay (Porcelain) | $2,375 | $400 | 83% |
| Invisalign | $7,000 | $4,500 | 35% |
| *including abutment & crown, ^ Per unit | |||
Prices are subject to change and are case-dependent.
Now that you are aware of the costs. Let's see the various payment options.
Payment Methods
Our partner clinics offer multiple payment options for international patients' convenience. You are free to choose the one that suits you the best:
- Cash
- Paypal
- Bank transfer
- Credit/ Debit card
Besides this, you may also avail a personal loan with SuperMoney.
If you are curious about what cosmetic dentistry can offer, scroll down to learn.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry refers to all procedures that improve the overall appearance of your mouth, teeth, and gums.[3]
They create balance and symmetry in your teeth while improving the color, shape, position, size, and alignment.[4]
Subsequently, the outcome is a radiant and dazzling smile!
Cosmetic Dentistry
Did you know?
Cosmetic dentistry is also called Esthetic dentistry or Hollywood smile makeover.[5]
Before going any further, let's ensure that cosmetic dentistry is viable for you.
Are You the Right Candidate?
Hesitant To Smile?
You are the right candidate for cosmetic dentistry if you lack the confidence to show off your natural smile because of;
- Tooth decay
- Missing teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Spaces between teeth
- Cracked/chipped teeth
- Crooked/ misshapen teeth
Source: WebMD[6]
Fortunately, many diverse dental procedures are available to address these concerns. Discover what Costa Rica offers you.
Top Cosmetic Dental Procedures in Costa Rica
Below are the various treatment procedures to enhance your smile.
Implants are metal screws surgically placed into the gums when you suffer tooth loss.
They function like natural tooth roots and support artificial teeth.[7]
The dentist will drill a single implant for one missing tooth.[8]
However, when you lose several teeth, you will need multiple implants to support a full arch bridge.[9]
Savings in Costa Rica: 57%
Dental Implants in Costa Rica
Crowns are the full caps used to cover a severely decayed tooth even if it lost 50% of its shape.[10]
They are typically tooth-shaped and hollow inside.
Crowns come in various materials like metal, porcelain, ceramic or composite resin.[11]
Your dentist will help you choose the right one based on your needs and preferences.
Savings in Costa Rica: 63-69%
Dental Crown in Costa Rica
Veneers are white-colored, wafer-thin coverings that can conceal any irregularities on your tooth.[12]
They are direct/ indirect composite and porcelain veneers.[13]
These differ in the type of material and application process.
Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, and your dentist will help you choose the right one for you.[14]
Savings in Costa Rica: 80%
Dental Veneers in Costa Rica
Dental Bridge in Costa Rica
A typical bridge is made of false teeth (pontics) held on either side by crowns.[15]
Basically, it looks like a teeth line held together.
While bridges are a solution for one or more missing teeth, the best part is that they can be fixed either on natural teeth or on implants.[16]
Savings in Costa Rica: 84%
The orthodontic options correct the bite problems in your teeth.[17]
They do so by aligning and straightening your overlapped, crooked, twisted, and gapped teeth.
Here are the two types.
Braces are the conventional method to straighten your crooked teeth. The dentist attaches metal brackets to your teeth.
These have flexible wires or archwires that apply pressure and eventually align the teeth.[18]
While braces can work for adults and children, they are more effective if you start early. [19]
Dental Braces in Costa Rica
Clear aligners are comfortable and are nearly invisible. They are made of high-quality thermoplastic materials and rarely cause any pain in your teeth.[20] [21]
They align your teeth gradually and gently, unlike traditional braces. Besides, they also facilitate oral hygiene, promoting better gum health.[22]
The best part is that you can enjoy all foods without restrictions.
Clear Aligners in Costa Rica
Savings in Costa Rica: 35%
They are the indirect pre-molded fillings that go on your back teeth.[23]
The dentist will use a bonding material that is fabricated in the lab to fix your misshapen teeth. Typically, the fillings that go inside the bumps of your back teeth are inlays.
While the fillings that go both inside and outside, especially over the bumps, are onlays.[24] These are a solution for moderate tooth decay and teeth worn out by sleep grinding.
Savings in Costa Rica: 83%
Inlay & Onlay in Costa Rica
Teeth whitening is a dental procedure using bleaching agents to lighten your stained teeth.
It is a conservative approach and does not remove the tooth surface.[25]
You can choose the procedure that suits you the best.[26]
- At-home whitening: Use 10-16% carbamide peroxide gel for one week.
- In-office sessions: The dentist will protect your gums with rubber dams and use hydrogen peroxide.
- Some dentists use Laser whitening systems. These have special light sources to activate bleaching agents for dramatic results.
Teeth Whitening in Costa Rica
You should note that teeth whitening is limited to natural teeth. This is not your method if you have crowns, bridges, dentures, veneers, or fillings.[27]
Savings in Costa Rica: 23-78%
Bonding is effective for gapped, chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth.[28]
The dentist will apply a teeth-colored composite resin to your damaged teeth.
The best part is that this procedure can be performed without anesthesia.[29]
However, smoking, or drinking coffee, tea, or wine may stain and discolor the bonding material.
Hence, you will have to avoid them.[30]
Savings in Costa Rica: 55%
Dental Bonding in Costa Rica
Before going any further, it is important to note that proper aftercare is essential. It helps ensure that the results last longer.
Scroll down to learn about it!
Post-treatment Care
Here are some aftercare tips that apply to most cosmetic dental procedures:
- Oral hygiene is essential for healthy gums and teeth. Hence, brush your teeth twice daily.
- Food trapping can cause oral bacteria growth. Floss your teeth to avoid this. Water floss is also an effective option.
- Use soft toothbrushes and avoid toothpaste having baking soda.
Flossing Teeth
Avoid Hard & Sugary Foods
- Protect your teeth from grinding with a night guard.
- Sticky, hard, hot, and sugary foods may harm your teeth. Hence avoid them.
- Avoid colored beverages since they may stain your teeth.
Source: Colgate[31], Medical News Today[32]
Remember that these are general aftercare instructions. Your dentist will always provide you with personalized advice.
If you are on the hunt for the best dental clinics to craft your pearly whites, we have you covered. Simply scroll down and take a look.
Top Dental Makeover Clinics in Costa Rica
A leading dental institute located in San Jose, Costa Rica, provides a wide range of dental services to local and international patients. It offers dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, full and partial mouth restorations, full porcelain crowns, and laser whitening.
The dentists are internationally trained and accredited. They have placed over 15,000 implants, with a nearly 98% success rate. The clinic provides a lifetime warranty on all dental procedures, including implants for single and multiple tooth replacements.
The clinic has state-of-the-art technology, such as CEREC Primescan, MC Xl & Speedfire Oven, Scanora 3D X-ray and 3D Imaging, and a Dental Microscope.
- 20+ Years of Experience
- 15K+ Implants Placed
- 98% Success Rate
Highlights
1. Internationally trained and certified dentists.
2. State-of-the-art technology:
- Dental microscopes
- Beyond® Whitening accelerator
- CEREC: Prime scan, MC XI and Speedfire oven
- In-office Flash Whitening Lamp assisted tooth whitening system
Facilties
- Sterilization: Autoclaving
- Guarantee: 7 years on crown and lifetime on implants
- Multiple accommodation options within a 1-mile radius
- 3 dental chairs, flexible schedules, and convenient appointments
With 22+ years of experience, Premier Dental Center has treated more than 8,000 patients.
The expert team specializes in implants, full mouth restoration, RCT, and various dental treatments.
Moreover, their concierge services ensure a hassle-free experience for every patient.
Premier Dental is committed to offering personalized care with the latest dental technology.
- ADA Associated
- 20+ Years of Experience
- IAOMS Accredited
Highlights
- Latest scanner to produce high-quality 3D images
- Cutting-edge technology for planning dental surgeries virtually
Facilities
- Parking space
- Sterilization: By autoclave
- Guarantee: 2 years on dental implants
- Comfortable stays within a 5 km radius
- Airport pick up & drop off (with additional charges)
- 8 dental chairs, flexible appointments, and advanced bookings
Discover Arte Dental in Liberia, Costa Rica, the leading clinic in the Guanacaste province where every doctor is a dedicated Dental Specialist. Our expert team excels in all branches of modern dentistry, including implants, endodontics, aesthetic dentistry, and orthodontics. Arte Dental is approved by the Ministry of Health of Costa Rica and the Board of Dental Surgeons of Costa Rica.
Trust Arte Dental's experienced professionals to provide tailored treatments for your perfect smile.
- CRDA Accredited
- 97% Success Rate
- UCR Accredited Dentists
Highlights
- Digital X-rays with large screens
- Only dental clinic in Guanacaste province where the entire staff is “dental specialists.”
- Sterilization: Reusable materials are sterilized by autoclave. Surfaces with disinfectant.
Facilities
- Refreshment bars
- Fully air-conditioned
- Spacious waiting rooms
- Comfortable stays within a 1-mile radius
An internationally accredited dental clinic in San Jose, Costa Rica, New Smile provides quality care.
It has 25+ years of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
The clinic has a state-of-the-art on-site dental lab, 3D imaging room, and sterilization area
Additionally, it uses advanced technologies like digital radiography, SCANORA® 3D dental imaging system.
The clinic is affiliated with ADA, ICOI, and AAID.
New Smile Dental Group is easily accessible for out-of-state patients. As, Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is just 11 miles away from it.
- CCDCR Affiliated
- PROMED Accreditated
- ICOI Member
Highlights
1. Free consultation
2. Latest technology:
- CBCT
- Panoramic X-rays
- 3D imaging with SCANORA® 3D
3. Onsite full-service dental labs with skilled technicians
Facilities
- Concierge services
- Free shuttle to the airport
- Spacious waiting area with free Wi-Fi
- Guarantee: 7 years on crowns, veneers, and a lifetime on implants (Terms and conditions apply)
Now you know the top dental clinics in Costa Rica. Take a peek at the cream of the crop cosmetic dentists.
Best Cosmetic Dentists in Costa Rica
Dr. Simon Flikier
Leading the field of prosthodontics, Dr. Flikier is a renowned dentist in San Jose, Costa Rica.
He specializes in esthetic (cosmetic) restoration and replacement of teeth.
Education
Boston University Boston, USA
Memberships
- Costa Rica Dental Association
- Costa Rica's Prosthodontist Association
- American College of Prosthodontics
Dr. Dashiel Carr
An experienced implantologist and specialist in Costa Rica, he completed his degree in dental surgery from Latin America.
He is a member of the ADA & has received training at:
- the Zimmer Biomet Institute in New Jersey and
- the Academy of Osseointegration Annual Meeting in San Diego, California.
He has also authored over 35 publications throughout his successful career.
Education
Latin American University of Science & Technology
Memberships
- Academy of Osseointegration
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry
- International Congress of Oral Implantology
Dr. Aura Nunez
Dr. Aura Nunez excels in multiple areas of dentistry.
She focuses on rehabilitation, implant digital workflow, ceramic veneers, and TMJ disorders.
She is also an expert in preventive dentistry, aesthetics, and orofacial harmonization. This allows her to deliver personalized care focused on lasting health and well-being.
Education
- Pontifical Javeriana University, Colombia
Dr. Natalia Arguedas
With 12 years of experience as a prosthodontist, Dr Natalia holds a DDS and an MSC, specializing in implants, crowns, and veneers.
She earned her degrees from the University of Costa Rica and teaches in the postgraduate prosthodontics program.
Dr. Arguedas has advanced training in cosmetic dentistry as well.
Education
University of Costa Rica
Memberships
- Costa Rica Academy of Specialist in Prosthodontics
- Costa Rican Dental Surgeons
Cosmetic Dental Work in Costa Rica: Reviews
The following pictures are evidence of dental transformation.
Before/ After Smile Makeover
Before/ After Smile Makeover
In addition to the before-and-after photos, you can also read the testimonials as further proof.
Carly Martins, USDental veneers in Costa Rica
This was the best experience I ever had at a dentist’s office. All doctors spoke English. I spent less than I would have back home!.
Still doubtful? Listen to our happy patient describing the care she received during her dental trip in Costa Rica.
Charessa Reviews Her Implants and Crowns in CostaRica
If you are wondering about traveling to Costa Rica, we got you covered. Let's plan your journey together!
Travel Details
Every year millions of tourists visit Costa Rica. They choose flight journeys. This is because flying is the most convenient way to get here. Before moving any further, quickly check the visa requirements.
Visa Requirements
If you are a US resident, you don't need a visa to enter Costa Rica. However, remember that you need to carry a valid passport and a return ticket.
Most importantly, schedule your return journey within 90 days from the date of entry.[33]
In case you are planning to stay for more than 90 days, you will need a residence permit.[34]
On knowing the visa requirements, the next question must be, "Where to fly?"
Costa Rica has two international airports.
You can choose to fly into one of them.
- Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose
- Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia
The best part is that, many major US cities have direct flight connectivity to SJO and LIR.
Look at the table below for a better understanding.
| City | To SJO | To LIR |
|---|---|---|
| Houston (HOU) | 3 hrs 45 min | 3 hrs 30 min |
| Atlanta (ATL) | 4 hrs 10 min | 4 hrs |
| Dallas (DFW) | 4 hrs 12 min | 3 hrs 54 min |
| Miami (MIA) | 2 hrs 55 min | 2 hrs 52 min |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 7 hrs 23 mins | - |
| New York (JFK) | 7 hrs 35 mins | 5 hrs 14 min |
If you're unclear about choosing the airport, we will help you do it with ease.
Both Flickier Dental Institute and New Smile Dental Group are a quick ride away from SJO. Hence, flying to SJO would be your best bet if you choose either one of them.
On the other hand, you'll need to fly into LIR if you're visiting Arte Dental.
At this point, it is important to note that Jaco lacks a regional airport.[35]
So flying to SJO and taking a road drive to Jaco is the best way to reach Premier Dental Care.
Below are the details for getting to the clinics from the airports. Have a quick check for a detailed understanding.
1. Reaching New Smile Dental Group/ Flickier Dental Institute:
- Avail the clinic's free shuttle service.
- Alternatively, you can pick airport orange taxis.
- They charge around $25.[36]
2. Reaching Premiere Dental Care:
- Jaco is 54.6 miles from SJO.
- Pick an airport shuttle or paid taxi to reach here.
- Airport shuttle bus prices start at $45 and vary with extra goods.[37]
- Alternatively, you can take the clinic's paid pick-up and drop service for hassle-free travel.
- Arte Dental is 7.3 miles from LIR. It will take 15 mins on the road for you to reach the clinic.
- In order to get there, pick up an airport taxi. The fares start at $10.[38]
Now you are aware of the travel details, keep reading to learn about Costa Rica taxis.
Tico Taxi Services
Costa Rica has a wide range of taxi services. Better be cautious when selecting one.
Here are some tips to make your transportation decisions easier.
- Stay away from unlicensed pirate taxis to save money.
- Instead, pick the official orange or red taxis.
- They have a yellow triangle and license number.
- The orange taxis are primarily stationed at the airport and follow fixed prices.
Source: Frommer's[39]
Tourist Attractions in Costa Rica
Don’t settle for a dull dental trip. Spice it up with an eco-tour in Costa Rica. Immerse yourself in the country’s lush rainforests and relax on the stunning beaches.
Here are the must-visit destinations for hiking, bird watching, and river rafting.
FAQs
The cost of a full set of veneers varies with the type of material and their number. For instance, a full set of veneers (16 porcelain/ zirconium ceramic) costs you $7,040 in Costa Rica.
However, you will have to pay more if they are composite resin veneers. A full set costs you $9,600.
Conclusion
A confident smile works wonders for your self-esteem and social interactions. Fortunately, affordable cosmetic dentistry in Costa Rica can help you achieve this.
You can expect exceptional results with a plethora of procedures at the top clinics. Moreover, it helps you make upto 80% cost savings.
So why not take a trip to Costa Rica for your dental needs? You will return home with a stunning smile and unforgettable memories.
References
1. PR Web: The 5 Countries with the best healthcare in the World 2020
2. Expatistan: Cost of living in Costa Rica compared to United States
3. WebMD: What Is a Cosmetic Dentist?
4. imedpub: Cosmetic Dentistry
5. Research Gate: Reframing Perceptions in Restorative Dentistry: Evidence-Based Dentistry and Clinical Decision-Making
6. Medical News Today: What are Dental Implants?
7. Colgate: Single Tooth Implants: What to Expect?
8. Research Gate: All-on-4 Concept Update
9. BMC: Onlays/partial crowns versus full crowns in restoring posterior teeth
10. Forbes: Dental Crowns:Everything you need to know
11. Research Gate: A Detailed Overview of Veneers
12. Healthline: Everything You Need to Know About Composite Veneers
13. Research Gate: Review Article Types of Veneers in Dental World
14. WebMD: Dental Health and Bridges
15. NCBI: Misaligned teeth and jaws: Overview
16. Medical News Today: Do Braces Hurt? What to expect
17. Healthline: How Much Do Braces Cost?
18. IJDM: Clear aligners, the aesthetic solution: a review
19. Healthline: Does Invisalign Hurt?
20. NCBI: Orthodontic Treatment with Clear Aligners and The Scientific Reality Behind Their Marketing
21. NCBI: Clinical Longevity of Indirect Composite Resin Inlays and Onlays
22. JODHR: Inlay, Onlay: Indication and Principale of Preparation
23. Science Direct: Tooth whitening procedures: A narrative review
24. Oral Health Foundation : Tooth whitening
25. NHS: Teeth whitening
26. Healthline: Teeth Bonding: What You Need to Know
27. Medical News Today: What to Know About Dental Veneers?
28. Costa Rica.com: Jaco Getting There
29. Juan Santamaria Airport: Juan Santamaria Airport Taxi
30. Frommer's: Planning a Trip in Liberia, Costa Rica
31. Travel.State.Gov: International Travel information Costa Rica
32. Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington D.C.: Visas, Residences, Permits
33. Frommer's: What to Know About Costa Rica’s Red Taxis So You Don’t Get Ripped Off
