Dental work in Tijuana, Mexico is affordable and can be of top quality. What to expect when visiting the dentist south of San Diego borders?
Read on to know all aspects: costs, safety concerns as well as tips on a successful dental tourism trip.
Dental Work in Tijuana Review
Tijuana, MX is a metropolitan city that shares its border with San Diego, California, in the USA.
Cost of Dental Work in Tijuana, MX
The cost of dental work in Tijuana is on average 70% lower than in the USA. For some procedures, savings could be much more.
For example, an all-on 4 implant costs $8,500 in Tijuana instead of the USA, where it can be between $24,000 and $50,000!
Below is the price list of popular dental procedures that Americans travel there for:
Cost of Dental Work – Tijuana v/s USA (USD)
| Treatment | Tijuana | US | Savings (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Titanium Implant | $899 | $2,500 | 64% |
| All on 4 Implants | $8,250 | $24,000 | 65% |
| Porcelain Crown | $595 | $1,200 | 50% |
| Zirconia Crown | $595 | $1,500 | 60% |
| PFM Crown | $395 | $800 | 51% |
| Removable Denture* | $595 | $2,500 | 76% |
| Snap-on Dentures* | $899 | $3,000 | 70% |
| Acrylic dentures full/partial* | $395-$685 | $850 | 47% |
| Porcelain Veneer | $595 | $1,400 | 57% |
| Root Canal | $450 | $1,500 | 70% |
| Invisalign | $4,535 | $6,500 | 30% |
| ZOOM Whitening | $250 | $499 | 50% |
*Denture only, no other costs included
Looking for quality & affordable dental work?
Get a FREE quote!For an affordable and high-quality dental implants, many patients explore Tijuana dental prices while planning their trip.
Explore the top dental clinics in Tijuana for exceptional care below.
Partner Dental Clinics in Tijuana, Mexico
Clinic Highlights:
- It is located just 2.5 miles from the US border.
- Flexible appointments.
- Same-day appointments are available for dental emergencies.
- Equipped with state-of-the-art technology like CEREC CAD/CAM.
- It accepts US PPO dental insurance policies. Contact our case managers for more information.
- Easy payment options like Cash, Paypal, VISA, Mastercard & other credit & debit cards.
Clinic Highlights:
- A state-of-the-art facility like CEREC CAD/CAM and laser technology
- It follows the recommended safety standards by OSHA, CDC, and Environment Protection Agency.
- Flexible appointments
- Free shuttle service
- 5% discount on cash payments
- Easy payment options: Bank money order, Cashier’s check or Traveler’s checks, Visa or Master Card
Specials Discount Offer:
- Get teeth whitening (worth $250) at $50 in your next treatment.
- Emergency Exam with Free X-ray.
Wellness Dental Clinic
Clinic highlights
- Experience - over 9 years
- Flexible appointments
- Dentists are affiliated to Mexican Dental Association (ADM) & American Dental Association (ADA).
- Equipped with the latest equipment like 3D tomography, intraoral 3D scanner, and Smart Dentin Grinder.
Dr. Implant Dentist
Clinic highlights
- Experience - over 15 years
- Flexible appointments
- 1-5 years warranty on dental treatments
- Free video consultations
- Provide hotel bookings & shuttle service from San Diego Airport to the clinic.
You're in safe hands of our certified dentists!
Book now!Why Dental Work Costs Less in Tijuana?
There are many reasons why dental work is cheaper in Tijuana than in the US.
It’s because of lower salaries of staff and dentists, building costs, no need for medical liability insurance, lower student loans of dentists, lower dental laboratory costs, and lower taxes.
Cost of Dental Work in Tijuana, Mexico
For a detailed explanation, read below:
Subsidized Dental Education
The Mexican government provides dental education at subsidized prices. [2]
As there are is no debt on the dentists, it heavily reduces the chances of overcharging their service.
Strong Dollar Conversion Rate
The US dollar holds a strong position as compared to a Mexican Peso.
So, even the costlier dental procedures in Mexico seem cheaper to an American.
Lower Cost of Living in Mexico
As compared to the USA, Mexican standards of living are not so high.
People prefer simple living, and the US dollar conversion rate also plays its part. [3]
Why choose DentaVacation?
DentaVacation is an online repository of renowned dental clinics & hospitals around the world.
DV highlights:
- Bilingual Support
- Negotiated discount prices
- Help with tourism-related activities
- 14+ years of experience in the industry
- Multiple dental partners across the globe
- Assistance in arranging passports and visa
- Optional direct pre-trip consultation with the dentist
- High patient success rate. See our patient testimonials here
Post-op Care by Dentists in Tijuana
Is Tijuana safe for Tourists?
Although there may be reports of theft and gang wars in Tijuana, with proper planning, one can have a safe trip.
Some safety measures:
- Don’t flash valuables in public
- Use app-based cab services for travel, like Uber
- Avoid travel to risky areas in and outside Tijuana
- Pickpockets may distract using kids selling flowers, be aware [4]
Emergency Numbers while in Tijuana: 911
If you dial 911 from a U.S. cell phone in Mexico, it will connect you to Mexico’s Emergency Assistance Service.
| US Consulate General in Tijuana |
|---|
| Address: Paseo de las Culturas s/n, Mesa de Otay, Delegación Centenario C.P. 22425, Tijuana, Baja California |
| Phone: (664) 977-2000 |
Is Tijuana Safe for Dental Work? Mexican Dentists Reveal the Truth!
Travel Tips:
- Carry a valid passport.
- Do try the famous ‘fish tacos’ in Tijuana.
- Book your hotel close to the clinic for ease of travel.
- Wear comfortable shoes while going for sight-seeing.
- Keep all your documents like FMM, Passport, etc. safely
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enroller Program to receive safety alerts.
- Drink packaged drinking water- carry a bottle with you when you go touring.
- Shopping complexes and some shops have restrooms- they may charge some money.
Currency: Pesos
Language: Spanish
How to visit Tijuana for dental work?
Here are some suggested hotels:
Quartz Hotel
Hotel City Express Plus
Hotel Lucerna
Dental Tourism in Tijuana
Dental tourism in Tijuana, Mexico, is a popular choice for affordable, high-quality dental care, especially for U.S. patients near Southern California.
Top 5 reasons to choose Tijuana for Dental Work:
1. Affordability: Save up to 70% or more on the dental procedures
2. Accessibility: Tijuana’s proximity to the U.S. border makes it easily accessible, with many clinics offering shuttle services.
3. Quality of Care: Reputable dental clinics in Tijuana are equipped with advanced tech such as CAD-CAM, digital dentistry, high end lasers. Many dentists in Tijuana have received international training.
4. No Wait Time: Get immediate consultations, unlike the U.S., where waits can be 2–8 months.
5. No Language Barrier: Fluent English and Spanish speaking staff
Dental Tourism in Tijuana
How to Reach Tijuana, Mexico?
As Tijuana is located on the US-Mexico border, you can use multiple options to reach the city.
Reach Tijuana via San Diego:
While Tijuana has an international airport, its connectivity from global cities can be limited.
The most convenient way to reach Tijuana is by flying into San Diego (SAN).
Upon arriving at SAN , you have several options to reach the San Ysidro Port of Entry (US-Mexico Border):
- Rental Car: $60-70; 25 mins via Interstate 5 (I-5); you can drive through the border in the same car
- Bus: $2.50; 20 mins; 992 bus from SAN (terminal 1) to downtown; transfer to the Blue Line (South) Trolley to San Ysidro.
- Tram/Trolley Service: $2-5 one-way; starts from downtown (American Plaza); Every 20 mins
Alternatively,
If you’re traveling from outside the US, you can fly to Mexico City (MEX) and take a connecting flight to Tijuana (TIJ).
Do I need a Passport to Enter Tijuana?
Yes, you need a passport or passport card to enter Tijuana, Mexico, and to re-enter the U.S.
Legally, border agents cannot deny entry to U.S. citizens who do not carry passport. But you may face secondary verification, causing delays.
For a smooth trip to a Mexico dentist, here are a few things to keep in check:
- Passport: Valid US passport or passport card
- Alternative IDs :Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry or FAST) or an Enhanced Driver’s License. [7]
- FMM : This is an international tourist permit required for entry into Mexico. For visits of 7 days or less, the FMM is free.
Obtain it at the Mexican port of entry or online through the Instituto Nacional de Migración’s website.
Walk Through the Border:
Most people prefer walking through the border as it saves the hassles of driving and parking. [6]
- Documents: Valid passport and FMM (Mexico Visitor’s Permit)
- From San Diego: You can take the trolley from downtown San Diego to the San Ysidro station (15 miles from the border).
- Crossing: Once you arrive at the border, it’s typically a 15-20 minute walk to enter Tijuana.
- Re-entry to the US: A valid U.S. passport is required for re-entry; Visa is not required
Know more about US-Mexico border crossing in advance for a smooth experience.
Drive Through the Border:
Driving into Mexico is an option for those who prefer the convenience of their own vehicle. However, there are specific requirements to keep in mind:
- Mexican Auto Insurance: U.S. auto insurance is not recognized in Mexico, so travelers must obtain Mexican auto insurance.
- GPS and Documentation: Ensure your phone’s GPS is functioning and that you have all necessary documents, including your valid passport, for re-entry into the U.S.
Set for a drive to Tijuana? Check out exclusive parking tips for U.S. patients from our Tijuana patient coordinator!
Driving to Tijuana
Traveling from Outside the US:
Traveling to Tijuana from countries outside the United States requires preparation to ensure a smooth journey.
Here’s what you need:
Travel Documents:
- Passport: All travelers must present a valid, unexpired passport or travel document.
- Visa Requirements: Citizens from countries not on Mexico’s visa-exempt list must obtain a visa before traveling. (check latest updates)
- Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM): This tourist permit is required to enter Tijuana. For stays shorter than 7 days, it is free.
Additional Considerations:
- Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
- Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs in Tijuana to ensure a respectful and lawful visit.
CBX Cross Border Xpress:
It is a pedestrian bridge-way crossing that connects Tijuana International Airport and San Diego, CA (Terminal 2).
Documents required:
- Valid passport
- Tijuana Airport boarding pass
- CBX ticket – Cost = $29 for one way; $48 for round-trip
- FMM Form
- Immigration requirements for the US & Mexico
Get complete details before you avail the services.
Places to visit in Tijuana
Tijuana Cultural Center
CECUT, Tijuana
- CECUT, as its known, promotes art and culture through programs and shows.
- It houses a museum, theatre space, performances, exhibits, an aquarium, and a garden as well.
Playas de Tijuana
Playas de Tijuana
- This beachside boardwalk is famous for cafes and bars.
- There is also live music with dancing.
- Surfers also come here to catch waves.
El Popo Market
It is a Mexican market with fruits, vegetables, souvenirs, pottery, and candles.
Common Spanish Phrases to Learn
Some common phrases that will help you in Tijuana:
- Good morning- Buenos días
- Say Buenas tardes for Good afternoon
- Good evening- Buenas Noches
- Please- Por favor
- Thank you- Gracías
- How much does it cost? – Cuánto cuesta?
Patient Testimonial
Patient, Viridiana Rosas from Portland, USA, shares her experience with Dental Brush in Tijuana.
She is very happy with the affordable dental treatment in Tijuana, Mexico.
