Know before you go- getting All-On-4® in Costa Rica.

Dental tourism for All-On_4® dental implants is on the rise in Costa Rica because of the high cost of dentistry in the U.S. and Canada. Did you know that if you’re facing an expensive plan of dental care at home, chances are you can get the same quality care in Costa Rica at a fraction of the cost? For instance, if you need dentures or a full mouth dental restoration, an All-On-4® could be your best option.

What does All-on-4® mean?

To answer the question, it helps to understand what a dental implant is. Basically, your dentist replaces your tooth’s roots with a surgical screw (the implant) that fuses into your jawbone. Once the implant is secure, he’ll secure a porcelain or acrylic crown to the implant.

All On 4® is a good choice when an entire set of upper, lower, or a full set of teeth need to be replaced because of an accident, decay, bone/tooth loss or periodontal problems. Instead of traditional dentures, which often carry a risk of further bone loss, your dentist will place 4 implants (per upper or lower jaw) and affix a full-arch set of crowns.

What’s involved in fitting an All on 4® implant?

First, you’ll have an initial consultation with one of our team members at Mario Garita MP Dental Clinic, followed by X-rays and a CT scan to check your bone density. Often, the scans are used for CAD/CAM (computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing) procedures that help your dentist place the implants correctly into your jaw.

Under I.V. sedation and local anesthesia, your dentist removes any failing teeth and diseased bone or gum tissues as necessary. The implant begins with placement of the surgical screws in your jaw, 2 at the front and 2 at the back of your mouth to anchor the initial fixed non-removable temporary bridge. After cleaning and suturing, you’ll move to the recovery room.

The entire All on 4® process will require two trips to Costa Rica over approximately a six-month period. Each trip will require about a week’s stay in Costa Rica, which means you’ll have some time to look around the countryside, and maybe even visit the beaches of the Central Pacific Coast to work on your tan.

Some patients of Mario Garita MP Dental Clinic have even opted for an extended stay in Costa Rica. Maybe renting a small apartment. And taking advantage of the time to learn a little Spanish while they see this beautiful country. They experience the abundance of excitement and discovery that Costa Rica has to offer.

Recovery time for traditional dentures can take up to 8 months. All-On-4® implants, on the other hand, only take about 6 months. This is because the bone fuses to the implanted screws to support your new smile. When all is complete, your final bridge will be made from a monolithic zirconia block and tuned up to perfection.

All-on-4® Implants- a procedure you can afford in Costa Rica!

Even adding in the cost of airfare and accommodation, you’ll still save nearly half of what you’d pay in the U.S. or Canada. Travel time ranges from 3 hours (with a Miami departure) to 6 hours (LA or NY departure). Plus, you get the added benefit of a couple of weeks in the sun, enjoying Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle.

Reach out today to discuss the option of All On 4® implants for improving your smile; you’ll be so glad you did!