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Jason's Mexican Dentist

Mexico for Medical – What you need to know Dentists and Drugs

Southern California and Arizona are known for a lot of different things, but one very popular and very controversial aspect is crossing the border into Mexico for Medical! Cheap Drugs, affordable prescription glasses and of course major dental work!

mexican drugs

So, of course while we were camped out in Yuma, we grabbed our passports and drove south to Los Algodones, Mexico.  It’s a four block radius where there are said to be more pharmacies, doctors, dentists and opticians than any similar area, anywhere else in the world!

Luckily for you, viewing our experience doesn’t require a passport…

Why did we cross the border for dental work?  Because, after listening to our snowbird friends brag about how cheap it is and how the care is the same as their doctor or dentist back home, why wouldn’t we go!  Los Algodones is a very safe border village and has become one of the dental capitals of the world with over 350 dentists in a town with a population of 4,000.  So, we thought our odds were pretty good and as you can see, all is fine.

diploma

The underlying reason is we don’t have dental insurance.  We’ve paid for it in the past but never found anything worthy, much less anything nationwide.  We have checked rates in the Midwest, east and west coasts only to get quotes of $200+ per person for just a cleaning.  Why, because when you don’t regularly see the same dentist they want to charge you a new patient fee, x-ray fee and whatever else they come up with.  Regardless of what I say or whether I offer to pay in cash; nothing ever seemed to make a bit of difference.  So for us, getting the same great care at a fraction of the price was well worth the walk across the border.

We had Arizona on our schedule for a while and about 3 months before our arrival, we started asking around for the best border town, best doctors and what kind of prices to expect.  So we didn’t enter into this blindly, not that we had any fear to begin with.

But its Mexico… there are drugs, guns and violence, oh my!

Yes, but have you been to St. Louis or Detroit?  Because these cities are in the top 5 most dangerous cities In America and top 50 in the world!

The big thing to remember here is tourism.  These Mexican Medical Wonderlands exists because of tourism.  It’s to their benefit and their goal to make sure each and every tourist feels safe and well taken care of so they will come back again, and next time with all of their Canadian friends too!

Now that we have you feeling all safe, warm and fuzzy inside, let’s talk details.  Here is everything you need to know about visiting Mexico for medical.  (Or at least everything we could think of)

  • We suggest parking on the US side and walking across, the security going into Mexico is a breeze! Our parking fee was $5 and the car seemed safe. The lot isn’t shaded and it’s the desert, so don’t even think about leaving your pet in the car. You can drive across the border and there are some small fee parking lots but not many.
  • They operate on Arizona time but are technically on Pacific time.
  • The cost is typically 50-70 percent less than U.S. prices.  Bring cash (American dollars are fine).
  • It’s a dentistry free-for-all, no accreditation process or licensing procedures exist in Mexico.  Don’t just show up and go to the first place you see.
  • Ask questions and check out their facility before agreeing to anything.  Ask where they went to school, for how long and make sure they have a degree.
  • Passports are required to cross the border, both directions.
  • What not to bring into Mexico:  Fire weapons, Bullets, Explosives and related chemical substances, Recreational drugs, Narcotics, psychotropic and other illegal substances, Vegetables.
  • To get back to the U.S. the officials at the border will interview you one by one, examine your passport and ask what you purchased.  They weren’t interested in receipts or going through my bag.
  • If you are on a schedule be sure and watch the line at the border crossing.  On busy times (especially winter) it starts winding around the corner and back up the street, it can take an hour or more to get through.  It was around 3pm March 1st and it did take us 40 minutes.  If you go first thing in the morning, wait until late in the day or visit in the off-season, you might breeze right through.
  • You can legally bring a 90 day supply of pills across the border into the U.S.  No controlled substances, like opiates, without a prescription.
  • For limits on Alcohol and other items, check this website for details.

As we mentioned in the video, some thought we paid too much, but we’re happy!  A mere $530 for 2 cleanings/exams and a new porcelain crown in less than 24 Hours!  We would’ve had to pay that just for the cleanings and exam alone in the states, so yeah, we are happy!

And as if the medical incentives aren’t enough to get you across the border, at least go for the cheap $1 tacos and $2 beer!

fish tacos

fish tacos

Ok, so now that we have stirred some thoughts it’s your turn.  Comment below!  If you have an experience, please share it.  Got a favorite doctor, tell us about them…and so on and so forth.

Hello there! I honestly don’t know what to say, so I am going to tell you a bunch of random facts instead. I'm a fish eating vegetarian who hates spiders and loves snakes. I almost never took vacations growing up. I wanted to be Pippi Longstocking (still do). I misspell about every other word I write and still struggle with grammar. I love splurging on a good high tea (which is really hard to find these days). And whatever you do, don’t tell me I can’t do something, because then I'll HAVE to do it!

Comments (116)

  • Kathy

    I finished my dental. I went with Lopez dental. Great group of men. I met Hector Lopez in parking lot. He walked me into town and listened to my story, I was disgruntled at having to pay the extra 220 to get my temporarily and a new post.
    I shared and he made a deal with me. Very satisfied with the work I received. Jeiro picked me up in the morning and brought me back to gate after each day. Im not sure on the young dentist that did the work. Dark hair very cute, sings and dances, loves reggae. He was a dental student but very gentle and caring as he did the work to replace my crowns. I met another lady Kathy Ann from WA state as I. She was absolutely ecstatic. Had her bottom teeth crowned and was absolutely thrilled. To have that done in the states was 30,000, she said. Not sure what she paid but made arrangements to come back in January for her top to be done. Looking for recommendations here you go.
    Next time I go across the border it will be for fun and a pedicure. Dental is done.

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  • Jim Marion

    Just now saw this site
    I was struck in from Fresno to New York City with DEF express out of Kingsburg California , pulling produce picking it up from Yuma. on my way heard about the dentist at los algodones from a co-driver, so we stopped there to get some dental work done. I had previously seven years before he had dental insurance through my company with Shane transport . That dentist they had massacred my teeth with fillings in order to so-called “fix” them.
    Well long story short I ended up with two root canal’s and one tooth pulled and cost me $125 back in 1995..

    That work held up for 15 years for before the teeth finally cracked and needed to be removed which is much more than I expected…seemed me the dentists building was on The left and was like have a dark granite looking building which may have been painted since I’m not for sure…. but I’ve never had a chance to mention this before…. saw this site and I thought I would…. many thanks to the dentist there at los algodones for a fine job
    sincerely
    former driver trainer with DEF
    Kingsburg California, Jim Marion

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  • Snowy owl

    Looking forward to going to Mexico later this year because my fiancee desperately needs a root canal and crown. When he was growing up there wasn’t extra money to see a dentist and unfortunately he is paying the price now. The local dentist quoted us almost $3000, demanded up front since he doesn’t have dental insurance, plus several hundred each for the follow up visits. A dentist in Mexico quoted $300-$400!

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    • BnBOnTheRoad

      Snowy Owl…how did the work turn out? What level of work did your husband have done? Would you use the dentist again? If so; who did you see?? Thanks!!! ….and Happy New Year!! 🎊

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  • Alvena burton

    I am thinking of going to los algondoes for some serious dental surgery and will be staying in Yuma. What are the restrictions on brining back pain medication that will be prescribed by the doctor that does the work in mexico? I have no idea of what that might mean and i know i will be in a lot of pain. Thanks

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    • Truth

      (What you need to know)? Serious surgery? You will not be rx’d any thing stronger than tramadol by any one, any pharmacy,any where and that’s if your lucky. This is the real truth and its why serious dental surgery pain is either never really mentioned on these with web sites promoting Mexico, who know the truth and should be telling you but claim ignorance. Beware, if its too good to be true.

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    • Kathy

      I just brought my prescriptions back no problem. But the female guard checked anyway to make sure i could cross with them. Anyway, I had bought a bottle of 800mg Ibproven. I would pick one up as the pain meds were useless after a root canal. The Ibeprofen saved me from 3 days of pain. Use ice after also. Lesson learned.
      Dentist yes there are many. Get a good quote and written. Im changing my dentist. I saw Dr. Luis at S’andy dental on A avenue. I paid 480. For 2 root canals. I had to wait 2 weeks and go back. I thought they were paid for, but then when they finished I had a new post made for 100.00. So they wanted another 220.00 . I paid after I had a small fit about the charge. Business might be slow with the Cv scare but don’t make me pay more because of it. So, Monday I have a meeting with another dentist who will give me a better deal and he wrote it down. So we will see. Its Christmas day 2020 so ill let you know more after Monday.

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  • JG

    Email me to let me know the answer.

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  • JG

    Any cosmetic surgeon recommendations?Wanting mini face lift. Anywhere along the border, closer to Ohio the better.

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  • JG

    I keep hearing about DENTAL, DENTAL DENTAL in Los Algodones. My teeth are in excellent shape but my face is falling. Any recommendations on Cosmetic Surgeons? It doesnt have to be Los Algodones, anywhere along the mexican border is good. I’m in OHio.

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    • Christine

      You are hearing DENTAL because this is a post about DENTAL. Go elsewhere if you want information about Cosmetic Surgeons.

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      • Kathy

        Good call. I do know a friend had lap band surgery in Mexico. She wants it out and no doctor in the states will touch her.
        I would suggest you think twice about a falling face JG. There are lots of places to go but its your face honey. You don’t want to end up looking like a Cat……

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  • Valerie

    I went to Castle Dental and had a fantastic experience. Last October I had 10 crowns, sinus lifts, bone grafts, two root canals and 7 implants. I had no complications and am going back to get my permanent teeth attached to my implants next month. Dr. Arturo Beltran is awesome. My sister has also had complete upper and lower implants done there and my mom had all of her teeth crowned. They are very professional and do excellent work. I would highly recommend them.

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    • BnBOnTheRoad

      Hi Valerie. What year did you and your sister each have your work done?

      reply
  • R. Koppel

    Where in Mexico can I buy Bydureon?
    The price in the U.S. is ridiculous. Try $600.00 for a one month supply!!!!!

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  • Kathryn McDaniel

    We have gone for 6 years now to Algadones, mX for our Dental. We only use Dr. Juan Bernal, from Bernal Dental. We save tons. Just completed 2 implants with a 3 tooth bridge. Implants are now $1,250. They seem to know how to eliminate any dental pain afterwards. I have had 3 teeth pulled there and minimal discomfort afterwards…no ice pack needed. I suggest to get several quotes for your dental and show the cheapest on eto Dr. Bernal and negotiate price from there. They also accept dental insurance. Parking is $6 for all day and just walk down a ramp and into Mexico. Never have got sick there either with the food. Security is high there due to the tourism and their desire for you to come back. We always stay on the Yuma, USA side at Howard Johnsons motel for $53 per night, free breakfast but again we negotiated over the phone before we got there on that price. We save enough on our eyeglasses alone, to pay the gas for the trip. Complete glasses for $150, including full transition, tri focal, the works and free eye exam first. We use “Eye Care” store for glasses. The plus is we get some sunshine during January while the rest of the US is freezing….never go in April-Sept when it is too hot there.

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  • Emma

    My mistake. Nucleodental.com is the site. You want Dr. Moran. If you come to El Paso they will pick you up and take you back to your hotel for free. I have been going for many many years. Also hospitals there. You can trust them code they have no reason to lie, unlike here in the land of the brave

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  • Emma

    I go to Juarez, being in el paso. Write me for info or just go to nucleo.com and tell them the west side chick sent you

    reply
  • Emma

    There is no such thing as a fish-eating vegetarian.

    reply
    • John

      LOL! Nikki’s a fig-newton-of-our-imaginations. She doesn’t exist. ;o)

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    • Redheadfae

      Pescatarian: a vegetarian who also eats fish and seafood.

      reply
  • Kristen

    Hey, thanks for covering this topic,you guys are awesome!!! Just starting out on my full time RV adventure, and have also been looking into Mexico for dental work. Just wondering, what did you guys do with your kitties when you crossed the border? I have a kitty too!

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    • We only walked across the border so the cats stayed in the comfort of their rolling home while we had our teeth worked on 🙂

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  • J Graham

    The dentist we use was recommended by a friend who has gone to this dentist for 10+ years. I had a crown replaced a couple of years ago. Cost $350! Most recently, I had a dental implant done. Total cost was $1150. I paid $50 for a 360º full head X-ray which was done in 10 minutes with no appointment. I’ve also gone to a dr in Algodones for platelet rich plasma shots to my knee. Greatly reduced the pain in my knee, putting off surgery. Cost was $240 per shot. In the states, these are not covered by insurance. IF you can find a dr who does these shots, price can vary from $500 to $1500 per shot! I’ve also purchased prescription meds there. Prices are much less than in the states. And yes, they will price match. I’ve never felt unsafe there. They cater to Americans and Canadians; they want our business. Great places to eat, as well.

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    • Melissa

      Can you please share the dentist information? Struggling to find a safe and good dentist. Don’t want complications once I get back to states.

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    • J,
      I also am asking, would you kindly share the Dental Dr.’s name for implant work. I am frightened to venture to Mexico, but am discounted with the unfair ecorbitant price for dental work here in the States

      reply
      • Teresa riley

        Dr Parra dental office is the best they went to school in the u.s. dr. Evar and his wife are both dentists and live in Yuma. My daughter has a new beautiful smile thanks to dr evar. Tim is the receptionist and will totally take care of everything.

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    • Susan Allen

      Can you give us the name of the Dentist recommended by your friend? We are looking to have implants and crowns. Thanks for the info.

      reply
  • Jeanie lee

    Do they sell novalog and Levimir flex pens for diabeties in algadones?

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  • Jay

    Question- did the Mexicans check your passports as you entered Mexico? Did they enter your passport info into a computer?

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  • Hector/S

    Hi everyone! Im Hector and Ive been watching the Youtube channel for a week, love your vids BTW, well Im commenting here because I think its important to share as a Mexican who lives in Mexico and can have a better perspective of the health facilities or clinics on this side of the border, because I have family in the States I can relate how expensive is the health without insurance in US, ( im Mexican, I live in Culiacan Mexico) I can honestly say that medical care here in Mexico has a lot of quality, we must keep in mind that there is not good regulation as the US, so we must be careful we that, there is internet sites like SEP.gob that will show if a doctor is qualified or not, in Mexico there is an association of medical certification, this is like a plus, to be more sure about the credentials of our doctor, we can find easily the certification of our doctor, just write the doctors name on google and look for, Asociacion Mexicana de (dentist, surgeons, dermatologists, etc) these asosiations have the updates and regular basis of international certifications. Hope it helps you guys. If you choose a certified Dr. the odds of having problems is almost none, there great Drs and very qualified as Drs who are not, so be careful. Greetings.

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  • Demetria

    I have been to Los Algodens for dental work in the past and I was very pleased with the Veneer that I got for $250 vs $800 in the states. I have a questions, My husband has hearing aids and he lost one of them. Of course the VA will not replace the one he loss. Does anyone know the price range of hearing aids in Mexico?

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    • Kat

      I currently have compost veneers and they need to be redone. What dentist did you use?

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      • You can see his name in the video and there is a photo in the article of his Dental License.

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    • Lulu

      Hearing aids in Los Algodones, at the purple pharmacy turn left and they have one clinic on the left and also across the street in the entrance to the restruant there is another. Starting price 695 and the 800 dollars ones have a 2 year guarantee which can be serviced in the US.

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  • irene

    Hi I have been getting blood drawn at a lab on Yuma for past 5 yrs Today I went and they have changed companies It used to be $40 us Today they charged me $286 Is There a less expensive lab in Algodones or Mexacli Help

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  • carl

    In reading this other travelers blogs I am grateful of the first person accounts you bring forth.

    Most of the comments here have been very positive and some are more complacent in nature. I as well have been going to the same dentist for over 10 yrs but if i ever needed some major tooth work done would not hesitate to head to Yuma and walk my butt across the border.. Best of both worlds, get teeth worked on for less, get to see my step brother in Phoenix and get some real tacos at the same time,, WIN WIN WIN..

    All the talk of infections and other such stuff are sometime not an accurate portrayal of the service and care you can receive from the Dr’s in Mexico. If you do a bit of research you can find the same such stuff from US doctors.

    My step brother and his family live in Phoenix and routinely travel to San Felipe to visit his real father and get stuff like teeth cleanings, filling etc and when I ask him about this he was ” I have not heard of such in any place we had been in mexico” They had traveled to Los Algodones and use doctor, dentist there as well and said the same thing.

    Me,, if I can get the same procedure done for 1/3 than in US with a Dr that for the most part was trained in the US.. I say let go. first beers on me.. will not “on” me but I will buy…:)

    We hope to be full time in 5 yrs or so and hope to make get a chance to check out the little dental town below the border..

    choa,,

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  • Liz Giuliani

    Thanks for your blog. It was very infomative-excellent! My dental procedure here in the US would cost me $4000.00 and the quote I got from Sani Dentistry is $650. I am leaving on flight a day after tomorrow to San Diego and parking my car on the US side and have my procedure done Monday afternoon. I will be staying in Yuma and flying out Thursday until my bridge is done. With my free airline ticket and only a rental car and an excellent rate at a hotel in Yuma (low season) well worth it and I will pick up some prescriptions and a good pair of designer glasses in my spare time when I drive back to San Diego Thursday afternoon.

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    • Sue

      Were you pleased with the results of your dental work done at Sani Denistry? Was the office and equipment clean? Thanks for your response .

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      • Steph

        Not sure how old this post is, but we just got back. My husband has had a lot of work done at sani and it’s all been great. I had a root canal because it was $180 (I think but that sounds low) vs. $1500 in AZ. I’m a big baby about dentists so it was a little rough for me, but it worth the $$ saved. And since I had anxiety, they gave me valium. My dentist in AZ makes my take Ativan. I’m a bad dental patient. I think we’ve been there at least 5 times and all was good. He’s going back soon for fillings and crowns, and then a whitening.

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  • I have linked your excellent blog article to one I did on Mexican Dentistry

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  • Joanie

    Been thinking about going to Mexico for dental work for a few years now but was uncomfortable about to many unknowns and not really knowing where to go for info, so the thought has been just that, a thought.
    We’ll I stumbled upon your site while trying to find a solution for my lousy cell phone connection at home as Verizon is offering a more everything plan and I thought I would use my iPhone as a hotspot but our home cell phone strength sucks for service and I shut down our internet services at home because I’m only there 10 days a month. I was also frustrated and have been for years about service when we went RVing as I do everything on line.
    I have to say that finding your site has been the best present I have given myself in many years!!!!
    I wish to thank you and all who jumped in on the dental and medical info band wagon with all your imput making this one of the most informative adventures and taking away so much work off my shoulders and giving me direction!
    Jason and Nikki,
    You guys are the bomb!
    Would be awesome to run into to you during one of our RVing trips around the US and make you both an awesome dinner, as cooking great food is one of my passions and I’m dam good at it, lol, and give you a proper thank you for all your help.
    Keep following your hearts and enjoy all that life has to offer!

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    • Thank you so much for the kind words and offer for dinner. We love to eat so I do hope we connect out there on the open road one day.
      Have fun with your Mexico for Medical adventure, we have been 100% satisfied with our experience.

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  • Kelli

    I wonder if you guys happen to know if you can bring narcs with you across with proof of necessity? I am prescribed some for chronic pain. If you happen to have info I would be grateful but I also plan on researching it myself. Thanks so much = )

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    • You can bring a specified amount (per person) across the border legally. We link to the govt. agency that provides this info in the article above.

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  • Kerry Liliedahl

    I’ve been going to the dentist – love Dr. Sigrid at Supreme Dental, and have been buying most of my meds there for the last four years as well. My Lyrica requires a prescription from my US doc, I can’t get my dog’s phenobarbitol without seeing a Mexican doc so I don’t bother, but the savings mean I can take some of what’s prescribed for me. Two examples – my 150 mg Lyrica isn’t covered by my drug plan and the last I checked it was $550 a month – it costs me $37 in Los Algodones. There was a shortage of the generic leflunomide in the states three years ago – with only the name brand Arava being available. WITH help from my insurance it was going to be $1320 for one month’s supply – I was able to get the name brand in Algodones for $60. Unless it’s a controlled med (controlled by the US – google the list) you don’t need a scrip – you just go into the pharmacy and ask for it – all the salespeople speak English. Now, pointers on all this – the salespeople work on commission! You will get the best prices if you find one salesperson in one pharmacy and stick with them, however – first go round – don’t hesitate to take your list to several different pharmacies and comparison shop – then choose the pharmacy with the best batting average – and if you tell them you’re going to buy something somewhere else, they will price match…Have fun!

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    • Deb

      Thanks for your info. I recently letter lost my insurance and I take Lantus and Bydureon. Does anyone know how how much these drugs will cost in Mexico? I’m planning on going in a couple of weeks.

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      • Richard

        I checked in Guanajuato in August. $18 per pen.

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  • Rosie

    Where did you leave your kitties while in Mexico?

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  • We had major dental work done last March and used the offices of Dr. Jorge Cortez. Between the two of us we had 10 crowns, 1 wisdom tooth extraction, 3 fillings, 1 deep cleaning and xrays… $2500. Dr. Cortez’ equipment was spotless and state of the art, with diplomas and US accreditation… much like Dr. Rubio. I was also given a course of antibiotics for the extraction, plus pain medication. We will now go yearly!

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  • Denice

    Had my dental implants in Mexico last year. I just can’t afford a $7,000 American tooth implant, so I decided also to follow the advice of my mother in law to go to Mexico. In fact, my aunt and uncle and some cousins have had great luck with one particular dentist in Cancun, Mexico.

    I was concerned about whether a dentist in Mexico would be regulated and have good qualifications like they do in USA, that’s why a went through a medical tourism provider (placidway.com/package/1179/). I had excellent work done in Mexico and saved a vast amount of money, which I’m very thankful for. I would suggest being careful, and doing more research. If you’re traveling down for specialty work, then I would definitely suggest to do your research beforehand and make an appointment. Don’t just go down, walk into the first office you see and expect to get great results on major dental services.

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    • Thank you for sharing Denice, we agree that research is a must…or getting a good recommendation from a friend.

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  • Stephy

    I went to very good dentist during our vacation in US. We went to Mexicali (we haven’t a health insurance like turist). Not mutter to cross the border line, because they pick me up at the border line and take me back there after visit, without extra fee. I went to Dr. Cynthia Castaneda (Periodontal), in Avenida Colón 955 Mexicali (Phone +52 686 553 6885 – email [email protected]). Very comfortable and special!

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  • Bev Mitchell

    Are audiology and hearing aids also available down there for a good price?

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  • Bob T.

    Back when lasik eye surgery was $4-5K I heard that you could go to Canada and get it done for much less. So that is exactly what I did, cost $1K and I used a flexible spending account (benefit from work) to save 30% by using pretax money. Some thought I was crazy but my research at the time proved otherwise. I took a nice mini-vacation from Maryland to Ottawa and saved a bundle.

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  • Pamela McArthur

    Before becoming full-time RVers, we lived in Indian Wells, CA (Palm Springs area) for 13 years and were frequent visitors or Algodonas for Rx refills, dental, and glasses. In fact, Jim and I picked up new glasses on our last visit in January 2013 when we went back to winter in the desert..

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  • Connie Wilson

    What about the mandatory insurance you have to have in the states by jan 1, 2014, fines if you don’t have it?

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    • Daisy

      If you are a senior and don’t have to file a tax return because of the level of your income, there is no penalty for not signing up for ObamaCare.

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  • lisa

    I found your article /video to be very informative. We plan on becoming full time rv’ers in 3 years. Which will be great, we will have a fixed income but no health insurance. This opens up some doors for us.

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  • Dan

    I had a high school friend that became a dentist. One thing he told me was that if a dentist injects you with novocaine in the wrong spot it can go to your brain and kill you. A girl friends co-worker died in Boston as a result of an improper novocaine injection.

    I love to save a buck when I can. I am sure many dentists in border towns are good. But if a licensed dentist in Boston can kill some one should you really be going to Dentist’s of unknown (possibly good) capability anywhere just to save a few dollars?

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    • Frank

      Never heard of it happening at Algodones, sounds like a good reason to stay away from Boston.

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    • smartiepants

      Well, if “Dan’s” “Friend” from high school says it’s dangerous, then we all better listen up. All those Novocaine related brain deaths we hear about on the news all the time will be even worse in Mexico.

      Seriously though, a quick search finds that this is mostly an urban legend. Dan’s “friend” is the internet. For Novocaine to actually kill it would have to be injected directly into the bloodstream, then in large amounts, it could cause a seizure.

      Google is your friend.

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  • G Escobar

    Great site folks, you made a funny and pro work.
    I am Mexican, and was curious about this article.
    Well, some readers above sounds like mexico is a terrible place to stay, definitively dentist don’t wear sombrero and maracas while working, and bacteria could be with your actual dentist too. I suggest a close friend or relative recommendation for a good dentists in mexico, there are good and bad, cheap and expensive dentist as everywhere.
    I can’t belibve how much you spend in dental care, that prices are incredible. With 5 grand I can pimp my entire teet like new. Saludos.

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    • Thanks for sharing! We agree the dentist we selected was a little pricey, but was very clean and still way less expensive than a US dentist. We love Mexico and have been visiting for years now and don’t plan to stop any time soon!

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    • Daisy

      I love our dentist in Los Agodones @ Supreme Dental, Sigrid Lopez, DDS. Three of my front teeth were broken. I was one step from dentures, but she replaced them with porcelain crowns for $300 + one root canal. :o)

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      • Jimmy

        Dr Lopez is great. just had all my teeth crowned by here over a period of 4 days. done in Jan., 2015

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  • Cindy

    What kind of anesthesia did they provide? Just local? Or did they have nitrous oxide or any other type of relaxant (valium, etc.)? I’m such a coward regarding these procedures and my dentist is kind enough to prescribe something for me before I go in. Of course I have to have someone drive me home afterward, but a small inconvenience for the peace of mind.

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    • They have everything in Mexico the same as in the states. Also they can prescribe drugs just like your dentist, only thing is you’ll have to go in for the prescription and then come back for the work. You can also purchase the name brand prescriptions or for a fraction of the cost you can purchase the generic version. If you’re on a budget medical in Mexico is a great option, but if you have healthcare and love your current doctor/dentist I’d say stick with your norm.

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  • Here in Australia we have many dentist who charge huge fees, and then others who are more reasonable.
    In Mackay (QLD) we payed over $500 for both Hubby and I to have a teeth looked at!!
    Here in NSW I had to have a tooth taken out and it only cost me $140.00 – huge difference in prices from state to state!
    And yes I would happily travel to find cheaper medical help as well as yummy taco’s for lunch 🙂

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  • Great post! Why have we never thought of this? We’ll definitely have to find a new dental home in Mexico! Especially if we’re in the market for a crown. Those things are crazy expensive! Cheers!

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  • mary van

    I have friends that go down to Mexico for their prescription skin care. I’ll have to tell them about the dentist in case they need work! Good information, thanks!

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  • mary van

    Something to consider! I have friends that go down for their skin care. I’ll have to tell them about the dentist in case they want to check it out. Good information!

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  • Pat

    We were in Yuma for two weeks a couple of months ago. Most of the folks in the RV park (Yuma lakes) had already gone to, or were going to go to Los Algodones at some point during their stay. Some of them were there only for that reason.

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    • Its amazing how many people visit Yuma just for Los Algodones…and I can’t believe how many Canadians visit considering I was under the impression their dental healthcare was inexpensive too.

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      • Leah

        Just a little follow-up:

        Canadians have universal healthare (so thankful for that). Indeed, I may go to my doctor, a specialist, the lab., and the hospital (including the cost of surgeries and the hospital stay) and pay nothing. Of course, we pay for this through our income taxes, much as we pay for our education and justice systems.

        We do not have a similar program for dental care. Many people have insurance through their employers (or private) which will cover a range of services (and prescriptions) not covered by our healthcare coverage.

        Such insurance might cover some or all costs associated with: dental care, optometry, chiropractic, massage therapy, homeopothy, prescriptions, etc.

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  • Mary P

    Hi Wynns!
    Great description of dental in Mexico. I’m sure this will really help a lot of folks. I live in Lake Havasu City, AZ, so have made the trip to Algodones many times with friends seeking dental or eyeglasses or medication. We have never had a problem, and everyone has been happy with the result. In fact was just down last week, and the lines were much shorter to re-enter the U.S. (remember to take your passport!). Keep up the great posts!!!

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    • Yea, it’s weird to drive a few hours south from Havasu and need your passport…almost forgot it on our first trip in.
      Next time you visit make sure you hit the taco shop in the post, it’s great!

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  • Greg

    HA! Don’t overlook the small fact that Algadones works on Pacific Time. But you cross the border from AZ,where they don’t observe the time change. That means there could be an hour difference. Not a problem except the border closes at like 8:00 p.m. (Pacific Time), or at least it did when we were there. That hour caused us to get stuck Mexico side with the guard refusing to let us cross. It’s a nice place to visit but you really want to sleep in the U.S.

    We spent an hour in the bar contemplating our next move. Fortunately when we returned to the closed gate the guard had either gone home, was on patrol or took a break. Whatever the case, we quickly climbed the fence and drove home.

    On the upside, there were no lines, passport issues or intrusive questions. Great place to visit though. Highly recommend!

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    • YES! The border does close….we’ll have to add this to the text above for sure. Glad you made it back to the states and not in jail 🙂

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  • Amy

    The crown has an overhang on the distal (bulky on the back). So just make sure you floss well on the backside, even though there is not a tooth behind the crown. Food tends to collect in overhang areas and can irritate the gums and cause some problems. I enjoy following your travels! Looks like so much fun!

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  • Pam

    I have been waiting for this clip. I don’t have dental insurance so this makes a lot of sense to go there. How do we make an appointment with this dentist, or is it walk in basis?

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    • Pam,
      Visit his website and call in advance to setup an appointment http://dentalrubio.com/
      You can ask for my dentist (his diploma is in the post) or you can ‘wing it’ as we did…we were told all the dentists that work there are the best in the area. Good luck, and please let us know how it goes.

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  • Jan & Dave Nichols

    We went to Loval Dentistry, Dr Rafael Lopez. We got the info from friends that go there all the time. We were amazed at how clean and modern their office was. I think the most important thing is that almost everything is cash. They will take a check but prefer cash. This concerned us at first, but the office will come and pick you up at the border. We had them pick us up a few times but then we learned the way and felt very safe there. My husband got complete dentures. They make the dentures right there. This takes longer than we anticipated so we have to go back in January just for some finishes. We had prices upwards to $6000. in the states,and it was only $1740 in Mexico. The offices were much more modern than any we had been too. Everyone was nice and welcoming. They do have a website where you can email them or call and ask questions, they have a number from the US. We were there for 5 weeks, but this is quite extensive and they would have like us to stay longer. If we had any problems we called them up and they had us come over immediately, everything was covered under the initial price, we made 8 trips but we were in a park in Yuma that was only 7 miles away, so this was no big deal.

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  • Gina and Jeff

    Great info. I have a few friends that studied for their doctorate in Mexico. They are doing quite well in the states. I will tell you my friend and I were drugged in Mexico so I will never drink anything but an unopened beer. I will admit the buz was fun but it made me quite sick.

    Enjoy Yosemite its really amazing!

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  • I don’t know if I could do it but it was fun watching you guys! And Nikki that dress is TOO CUTE. Love!

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  • Trish

    My current dental bill in the USA is $5,000. I need a new bridge, two crowns and one of the teeth repaired due to crack.
    But I’d never consider going anywhere else for the work. I know my dentist after being a patient for 10 yrs. Its 10 minute drive from my house, have been happy with the work in the past, and agree with the comment, “you never know what bacterial infection you may acquire from a foreign country especially when someone has been picking around in your mouth”. My insurance will pay $2,000 of the bill and for the balance I’ll make payments on my credit card. I consider my teeth the key to good health and my personal jewelry wothy of investing in when needed. Fortunately I haven’t ever had a bill this large. I’m 56 and can understand things start to wear out. Too much sugar as a kid. Hope it all continues to work out for you both can understand why in your circumstances you made the choice.

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    • My original dentist in Dallas was great…then he started getting older and had to close his practice. From then on I bounced from dentist to dentist with one bad experience to another. I’m sure if my experience had been as good as yours throughout the years I would’ve had the crown installed correctly the first time. Thanks for sharing.

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  • Debbie from Illinois

    I was just talking to my dentist about people having dental work in Mexico. He said he would worry about the risk of hepatitis. My Sister in-law is in Mexico getting 8 dental implants done at the same time. I am looking forward to talking to her about her experience.

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    • Debbie, please share her experience we’d love to hear it.

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  • Dick Epler

    You’re quite right … many of the Mexican boarder towns cater to US and Canadian tourists. We’ve been to several over the years and always have had a pleasant, and profitable, experience. We usually go with other Americans such as our daughter and Texan friends who live nearby. We know of several RVers from the upper mid-west who come down for extensive procedures, e.g., implants and cosmetic.

    I’ve never heard of a bad experience but I’m sure there must be a few … can’t be that many though.

    One of the best dental towns was New Progresso near Brownsville. It’s a fairly new town created primarily by American/Mexican Dentists. But for minimum hassle, Acuna across from Del Rio is very good.I’m sure there are others. Very little boarder traffic to Acuna.

    BTW, I’m looking forward to your update on motorhome problems. We’re the folks with the 2011, 32′ Vesta like your’s … only our’s is the tan color. So far, the Vesta is the most maintenance-free MH we’ve owned. My only complaint is the small inverter (1250W) … which will trip the breaker if both the TV and microwave are on when the outside temperature is above 80 degF … and that’s after the recall had been performed … annoying … $3000 to upgrade to the 2000W inverter.

    Right now, we’re at the Island RV Park on Clearlake in California … beautiful weather … very nice owner-managers.

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    • Dick thanks for sharing your experience with medical across the border. We also heard of another location just south of the border from Pio Pico RV Resort (30 mi. east of San Diego) called Tecate. Not sure if that’s where they make the beer or not, but they are supposed to be great for medical as well.
      As for the Vesta we are working on the post. Trying to get through the documents from the different service centers.
      On the invertor front you’ll be excited to know we’re getting a pure sine invertor installed along with a beefed up solar setup, all together the system is around $5,000 (from GoPower) so not much more than the quotes your getting for just the invertor upgrade.
      Safe travels and have fun in Clearlake, we’re just a few miles south of you in Manteca, CA on our way to Yosemite.

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  • So, tell us a little more about medications. Both my wife and I take quite a few. None of them are opiates or proscribed substances. Do we need to bring prescriptions for all of those, or can we just purchase a 90 day supply on our say-so?

    And what are the prices like compared to good old USA?

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    • We have little experience purchasing drugs in the USA so we cannot confirm the pricing based on experience. However we did talk with many Canadians who claimed the prices were even cheaper than what they pay with their government medical plans. By looking at the bags of prescriptions in the hands of people leaving Los Algodones I’d say they must be cheap.
      From what we’ve been told the best way to save money is to purchase your 90 day max when you arrive for the snowbird season, then purchase another 90 day supply before you depart. Now remember that’s a 90 day supply for each person. Hope this helps.

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  • Cinda

    Not brave… wise! My husband did the same…. GREAT dentist (Beautiful Smiles, Algadones), great care.. and wonderful outcome! Yeah, Wynns! You win my vote for smart! 😉

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  • Campbell

    I don’t always travel to Mexico for cheap dental, but when I do I always eat true Mexican food. Stay hungry my friends!

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    • HAHA! Good call.

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    • sue hardy-morgan

      Were almost ready….going full time and one of our first stops will be mexico for dentist! Our family lives in lake havasu and only go to mexico for their teeth. Have been following you quite a bet so we are excited to get started!!!

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  • Crispen Breslin

    Jason & Nikki, Fantastic video!
    Let me know when you two are back in Dallas.
    …We can grabb a taco here!

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  • Kathy

    Wow. you guys are brave but looks like all went well. Such great prices, good service, clean and with a recommendation that you trust- good deal. Thanks for the great info, keep it coming.
    ps…bar next door,,,hello??? what a perk!

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  • THANK YOU! This is something that we’ve considered doing but needed to hear it from friends. You’re right, the tacos along are worth the border crossing. Glad you two have sparkling clean teeth 🙂

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    • Tawny, the second taco place we ate at was the best (its in the photo at the bottom of the post) but that would be quite the expensive meal since you’re coming from Washington 🙂 Ha.
      No but seriously it was a great experience and I’m happy to have a proper crown now.

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  • WOW! Probably your most thrill seeking, risky adventure to date! 😉

    Hey, it seems to be fine dental work. I would worry about infection and weird Mexican bacteria. But with all the fried food you eat, I’m sure your bodies can process anything! HA! JK.

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    • …and don’t forget about all the jalapenos we ate! 🙂 We did carry our Camelbak All Clear across the border so we would have bacteria free drinking water from any clear water source.
      Also the dental tools were opened right in front of me, so I’m guessing they were sanitized just like the states.

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