Say goodbye to cracked teeth! Regain your confidence with affordable, high-quality dental crowns & bridges in Costa Rica. Read more to know how!
Read on to discover affordable, high-quality dental crowns and bridges in Costa Rica that perfectly match your needs.
Low-cost dental crowns in Costa Rica – Patient Testimonial
As people grow more conscious of their appearance, dental crowns and bridges are becoming a necessity rather than a luxury.
After all, a perfect smile is always in style!
Dental Crowns & Bridges Cost in Costa Rica
The cost of dental crowns in Costa Rica is $399 for a porcelain noble metal crown and $550 for a zirconia crown with abutment.
This cost includes the crown and procedure fees.
The same treatment in the US costs up to $1,300.
The cost of dental bridges in Costa Rica is $1,650 for a 3 unit porcelain bridge. This cost includes the bridge per jaw and procedure fees.
The same treatment in the US costs around $3,000.
You can expect to save up to 70-80% with low-cost teeth caps in Costa Rica.
Take a look at the Costa Rica dental price list to compare dental crowns and bridges costs to USA and Canada below:
Dental Crown Cost (USD)
USA vs Canada vs Costa Rica
| Crown Type | Costa Rica | USA | Canada |
| Porcelain Noble Metal | $399 | $1,100 | $1,200 |
| Porcelain Fused to Metal (with abutment) |
$550 | $1,300 | $1,200 |
| Porcelain E max (with abutment) |
$750 | $1,500 | $1,400 |
| Full Porcelain (with abutment) |
$550 | $1,300 | $1,200 |
| Ceramic (with abutment) |
$550 | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Zirconia (with abutment) |
$550 | $1,300 | $1,200 |
| Crown over Zirconium Implant (with abutment) |
$750 | $1,800 | $1,500 |
| Base Metal Alloy | $500 | $1,300 | $1,100 |
Prices are case dependent.
Dental Bridge Cost (USD)
USA vs. Canada vs. Costa Rica
| Bridge Type | Costa Rica | USA | Canada |
| 3 Unit Porcelain (per jaw) |
$1,650 | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| Porcelain Fused to Metal (3 crowns) |
$1,800 | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| All Ceramic (3 crowns) |
$1,800 | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| All Metal (3 crowns) |
$1,800 | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| Implant-supported (3 crowns) |
$2,760 | $5,500 | $5,000 |
Prices are case dependent.
The major cost difference between dental work in Costa Rica and the U.S. is due to lower labor costs, a reduced cost of living, and more affordable operational costs. [1]
A perfect smile shouldn’t cost a fortune! Save up to 90% on dental implants in Costa Rica and enjoy expert care at a fraction of the cost!
You can save up to 70% on dental crowns in Costa Rica!
Request a quoteWhy Choose Dental Crowns and Bridges in Costa Rica?
Several countries offer high-quality and low-cost dental crowns and bridges. But why is Costa Rica a top option among dental tourists? Let’s explore!
- Substantial savings – Costa Rica’s dental costs for crowns are as much as 80% lower than in the US and Canada.
- High-quality treatment – The country offers world-class dental care facilities and services. [1]
- Competent dentists – Our partner dentists are trained in the US and registered with AAID, ADA, and ICOI.
- English-speaking dentists – Costa Rica dentists involved in dental tourism speak fluent English.
- Ease of travel – The country is less than 3 hours away from the nearest American airport.
- Safe destination – With low crime rates, Costa Rica is often called the “Switzerland of Central America.” [2]
- A rejuvenating vacation – A country rich in nature and wildlife, sandy beaches, and uninhabited tropical islands. [3]
Now, let’s take a look at the top dental clinics and experienced dentists for your smile makeover in Costa Rica.
Best Dental Clinics in Costa Rica
Clinic Highlights:
- Eight fully equipped rooms with the option of complete sedation for dental procedures.
- In-house dental lab with state-of-the-art technology such as CAD/CAM, 3D CAT scan imaging, panoramic X-rays, and cone-beam computerized tomography.
- A comfortable waiting area with free Wi-Fi and phone calls to the US and Canada.
- Concierge services Accepting payments in cash, bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal.
- Offer a lifetime guarantee on dental implants and a 7-year guarantee on crowns and veneers (terms and conditions apply).
Arte Dental
Clinic Highlights
- One of the most respected dental clinics in Costa Rica.
- The internationally trained and accredited dentists have placed over 15000 implants with a success rate close to 98%.
- Equipped with CEREC: Primescan, MC Xl & Speedfire Oven, Dental Microscope, and many more.
Premier Dental Care
- 22+ years of experience with 7+ specialties and 8,000+ patients treated.
- Specialized in all branches of modern dentistry, implants, aesthetic dentistry, endodontics, and orthodontics.
- Concierge services to assist with transportation, accommodation, and local recommendations.
- Only 1.5 hours from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).
- 8 fully equipped treatment rooms, on-site dental laboratory, 3D advanced dental imaging room, and a dental sterilization area.
- Special services such as a parking lot, unlimited Wi-Fi access and unlimited free phone calls to USA/Canada for international patients.
- All doctors affiliated to ADA, AAID, ICOI, and CCDCR
- Locally accredited by PROMED
Do dental clinics in Costa Rica offer same-day crowns, or will I need multiple visits?
Yes, top dental clinics in Costa Rica offer same-day crowns using advanced CEREC technology. For complex cases or traditional lab-made crowns, a second visit may be required.
Best Dentists in Costa Rica For Crowns
Expertise
Implants, All on 4/6/8, Crowns & Bridges, VeneersEducation
Boston University Boston, USA- Member of the American Dental Association
- Member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons
- Recognized by the Royal College of Dentists of Canada
Expertise
Smile design, Veneers, Crowns & Bridges, Fixed and removable partial denturesEducation
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua- Certification in Adhesive Oral Rehabilitation
Expertise
Veneers, Crowns on implants, Dental esthetics, Fixed and removable prostheses.Education
University of Costa Rica- Specialization in Orofacial Harmonization, Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina
Expertise
Implants, Crowns & bridges, Veneers, RCT, FillingsEducation
Latin American University of Science and Technology- Diploma in Rehabilitation
- Implant Digital Workflow Solutions Hands-On Workshop, Platinum Education
- Orofacial Harmonization, INCAE
Expertise
Implants, All on 4/6/8, Crowns over implants, ExtractionsEducation
Latin American University of Science & Technology- Member of American Academy of Implant Dentistry
- Member of American Dental Association
- Member of International Congress of Oral Implantology
- Member of Academy of Osseointegration
- Member of Costa Rican Dental Association
Expertise
Implants, All on 4/6, Oral SurgeryEducation
Universidad Latina de Costa Rica- Specialist in Oral and Reconstructive Implantology
- Fellowship in oral surgery and osseointegration
Expertise
Implants, Crowns & Bridges, VeneersEducation
University of Carabobo- Anterior and posterior esthetic restorations course
- Prosthetic rehabilitation course with Bio Horizons implants
Expertise
Digital Smile Design, Full mouth restorationEducation
Universidad Latina de Costa Rica- Graduated MAGNA CUM LAUDE-one of the 20% best averages
- Diploma in 3D Aesthetic Dentistry Cllones Method, USA
- Dental design in EXOCAD
Do Costa Rican dentists use digital impressions for crowns?
Yes, many dentists in Costa Rica use digital impressions for crowns. Advanced 3D scanning technology provides precise measurements, ensuring a better fit and faster turnaround compared to traditional molds.
Looking for the top dentists in Costa Rica?
Yes, please!Dental Caps in Costa Rica: Before & After Images
Front teeth crowns
Full mouth rehab with individual crowns
Costa Rica Teeth Caps: Reviews
I had done 29 zirconium dental crowns. All my needs were met while I was in the country.
Andy Rhodes
US
I suffer from anxiety disorder and everyone that interacted with me, was caring, patient, and highly experienced.
Christopher Collins
USA
It was the best dentist experience I had in my whole life! I highly recommend this clinic!
Matt Chouinard
Canada
The treatment was fast, inexpensive, mostly painless. Dr. Flikier is an excellent dentist & a very educated man.
Marvin VannGriffith
USA
I got 15 crowns! This obviously took not just technical but artistic talent. YAY! Now I can smile again!
John Cottam
USA
The crown he placed on my implant is perfection! Dr. Flikier's entire staff has a friendly, welcoming disposition.
Eric Cooper
USA
If you’re considering dental restoration with crowns and bridges in Costa Rica, it’s essential to understand the basics and know what to expect.
Here’s everything you need to know about dental caps in Costa Rica to help you make the right choice.
All About Costa Rica Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or worn-down tooth to restore its shape, strengthen it, and prevent further damage.
When Is a Dental Crown Necessary?
You may need a crown in the following situations:
- Protect a decayed/weak tooth.
- Cover a tooth with a large filling.
- Hold together a chipped or cracked tooth.
- Hide a discolored or misshapen tooth.
- Restore a tooth after root canal treatment.
- Anchor a bridge or cover a dental implant.
A dental crown
Keep reading further to learn about crown types and materials!
Different Types of Crowns in Costa Rica
Today, there are different types of crowns depending on materials, cost, and patients’ needs.
The main types of crowns used in Costa Rica include:
Full Metal Crowns
- All metal crowns have a metallic appearance.
- These restorations are made entirely of metal.
- These crowns are fabricated using dental alloys like gold, copper, platinum, and base metals such as nickel-chromium and cobalt-chromium.
Ceramic (Porcelain) Crowns
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns are made of dental ceramic.
- These are metal-free and resemble the natural tooth.
- Types – Zirconia, Emax, Lava, CEREC.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
- These are metal, ceramic crowns – a hybrid between all-ceramic and all-metal crowns.
- PFM crowns also blend well with the natural teeth’ shape, look, and function.
- Types – Porcelain fused to base metal alloys/titanium alloys/gold alloys.
Zirconia Crowns
- Closely mimic natural teeth.
- Safe for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
- Maintains its color and strength over time.
- Preserves more natural tooth structure than metal crowns.
Partial Crowns
- A partial crown, such as an onlay or inlay, covers only the damaged part of the tooth.
- It covers less of a tooth than a crown but more than a filling.
- Inlays and onlays protect the tooth and ensure bacteria cannot enter via the tooth cavity.
Temporary Crowns
- These are also called the provisional crowns or interim crowns.
- Temporary crowns are worn between the crown preparation appointment & the cementation appointment.
- These crowns protect your filed-down tooth and the surrounding gum tissues.
When your dentist recommends a crown, you can choose the material that best suits your needs.
The selection depends on your preferences, the dentist’s recommendation, and material availability.
Understanding your options and their benefits will help you make an informed decision.
Now, let’s explore the pros and cons of different materials used for crowns and bridges in Costa Rica.
Comparison of Dental Crown Materials
| Crown Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Full metal | -Long-lasting -Do not chip or break |
-Poor aesthetics -Potential allergic reactions to metals like nickel |
| PFM | -Pleasing aesthetics -Stronger than ceramics |
-Prone to chipping -Can wear down adjacent teeth |
| All-porcelain | -Natural-looking -Metal-free |
-Risk of fracture -Higher cost |
| Zirconia | -Exceptional strength and durability -Reduced allergy risks -Good aesthetics |
-Higher cost -Potential wear on opposing teeth |
What’s the Best Crown for Your Tooth?
Here we list the kinds of crowns typically made for the best choice for each type of tooth.
Gold crown
PFM crown
Zirconia crown
E-max crown
Dental Crown Recommendations
| Type of tooth | All-metal^ | PFM | Full zirconia | E-max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper or lower second molars | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Lower first molars | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Upper first molars | X | 1 | 3 | 2 |
| Upper or lower premolars | X | 2 | 3 | 1 |
| An individual upper or lower front tooth* | X | X | X | 2 |
| All 6 upper or lower front teeth | X | X | X | 1 |
| 1 to 4 – Order of preference | ||||
| *The first choice is any type of all-ceramic crown except those made of high-strength porcelain; ^ Gold alloy | ||||
Courtesy: Dental Economics (Dr. Gordon Christensen, Ph.D.)
Zirconia Vs. Porcelain
Zirconia Vs. Metal Acrylic
Now that you know the various options for materials, let’s understand the dental crowns & bridges procedure.
Costa Rica Dental Crowns Procedure
Your crown placement in Costa Rica may be completed in one or two visits, depending on your oral condition.
Dental Crowns Procedure
- First Visit: Tooth reshaping and impression taken for the lab.
- Temporary Crown: Placed to protect your tooth until the final crown is ready.
- Second Visit: Permanent crown placement for a lasting smile.
CEREC or Same day Crowns in Costa Rica
- Single-visit crowns are a convenient and cost-effective way of getting quality crowns in Costa Rica.
- Using 3D CAD/CAM technology, the crowns are designed and milled in the dental office.
It takes only one appointment to design, create, and place the crown, while traditional crown placement takes weeks.
Three-Unit Dental Bridge
A 3-unit dental bridge replaces one missing tooth, using two adjacent teeth as supports. The bridge consists of three crowns fused together.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Strong metal base with a porcelain coating for a natural look.
- All-Ceramic: Fully porcelain, offering the best aesthetics for front teeth.
- Zirconia: Durable, metal-free, and natural-looking, suitable for all teeth.
Your dentist will recommend the best material based on durability, aesthetics, and your dental needs.
3-unit bridge
Bridgework would generally last around 10 to 20 years before it needs replacement or repair.
How Many Visits Does It Take to Get a Costa Rica Crown?
- First Visit: Tooth preparation and temporary crown placement.
- Additional Procedures: If needed, crown lengthening or a root canal may be done.
- Second Visit: Permanent crown placement (2-4 weeks later).
Dental Holiday in Costa Rica
After your dental restorations, take the opportunity to explore Costa Rica’s rich culture and top attractions.
Watch this video for must-visit spots to turn your treatment into a memorable dental vacation!
Video Courtesy: Joyous Travel
Conclusion
Dental crowns improve both function and appearance by strengthening teeth and covering imperfections.
Choosing dental crowns and bridges in Costa Rica offers an affordable way to achieve a stunning smile.
Plus, you get to relax and explore one of the world’s most beautiful and safest destinations!
[5]For more information on dental tourism in Costa Rica, contact us!
FAQs
A dental crown in Costa Rica will cost between $395 and $550, depending on the material used.
It is $395 for porcelain-fused-to-metal, $410 for full porcelain, $450 for zirconia, and $550 for E-Max.
Compared to the US, these prices are about 75% less.
All-ceramic crowns in Costa Rica can cost between $410 and $550 per unit.
In contrast, it would be $1,800 in the US and $1,650 in Canada.
Root canal procedures start as low as $250 in Costa Rica, while it is charged above $1,200 in US clinics.
Both the root canal and crown in Costa Rica will cost you less than $750. This cost would be much less than just the crown itself in the US.
Bridges in Costa Rica are affordable, with average prices between $1,185 for a full porcelain 3-unit bridge and $1,650 for a PFM 3-unit bridge.
Compared to the US and Canada, these prices are 70-80% less.
Costa Rica’s one day dentistry allows you to receive a full-functional permanent dental crown in a single trip.
Your dentist will prepare your tooth, take impressions, mill your custom crown in-office, and securely fits over the tooth on the same day.
