Preparing for Your All-on-4 in Costa Rica

All-on-4 solutions (teeth replaced with a denture or a bridge affixed to four dental implants) are often recommended to replace lost teeth. Unfortunately, in the USA, All on 4 solutions are also very expensive.

While prices will vary from state to state and from dentist to dentist, you can expect to pay at least $50,000 for a completed All-on-4 in the low end of the price range. Better materials used in the implant, the bridge, or the crowns can quickly increase this number. Depending on where you live, the price for an All on 4 procedure can reach as high as $90,000 in the USA. However, if you want to save 50% to 70% or perhaps even more, join tens of thousands of Americans and Canadians and come to Costa Rica for your All-on-4.

If you choose Costa Rica for your dental care, it’s best to start preparing yourself before your trip begins. Your dentist may require you to follow one or more of the following instructions:

1. Stop Smoking

Smoking is a high-risk factor when performing an All-on-4. It can cause infections in the teeth or the gums, and as a result, increases the odds that the patient’s body will reject the dental implants.

2. Changes in medications

You will need to inform your dentist of any current medication that you’re taking as well as the purpose of the medication. Certain medications can affect the procedure or your body’s reaction to the procedure and you may need to change them or stop taking them for a while. You may have to consult your doctor if this is the case.

3. Diet

In a few rare cases, your dentist will ask you to change your diet. These changes are usually aimed at keeping you from foods or drinks that might affect coagulation, wound healing, or bone strength, etc.

On the other hand, you are more likely to need to change your diet for up to 6 months after the first surgery of the procedure. These changes usually involve avoiding any crunchy or hard foods that might damage the area.

4. Take any necessary medical tests

Your dentist may want you to take tests locally in order to better evaluate your situation. Even if you have already been told by a local dentist that you need an All-on-4, if some significant time has passed, a new series of tests might be needed to assess your current oral situation.

If you are interested in an All-on-4 procedure in Costa Rica, fill out the “Find a Dentist” form. A participating dental specialist will reply to your needs.