Dental Vacation? Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
- Coco Dental
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 4

Thinking about combining your next tropical escape with a dazzling new smile? Welcome to the world of dental vacations—where affordable dental care meets beautiful destinations. At Coco Dental Care in Costa Rica, we’ve helped thousands of patients restore their confidence while enjoying paradise. But before you hop on a plane, there are a few things you need to know to make the most of your journey.
What Is a Dental Vacation?
A dental vacation—also known as dental tourism—is when patients travel to another country to receive dental treatment, often at significantly lower prices than in their home country. Costa Rica, with its world-class dentists and breathtaking beaches, is one of the top destinations for this growing trend.
But like any trip abroad, preparation is key.
Why People Are Choosing Dental Vacations
✔ Lower Costs – You can save up to 70% on procedures like crowns, implants, or veneers compared to prices in the U.S. or Europe.
✔ High-Quality Care – Clinics like Coco Dental Care meet international standards, offering advanced equipment, digital imaging, and highly trained professionals.
✔ Vacation + Health – Recover while relaxing on the beaches of Guanacaste, Costa Rica—your smile (and your spirit) will thank you.
7 Essentials to Know Before You Book a Dental Vacation
1. Check Accreditations and Dentist Credentials
Not all clinics are equal. Choose a clinic with:
Dentists licensed in their country and ideally trained internationally
Affiliations with respected organizations (ADA, ICOI, etc.)
Transparent profiles and patient testimonials
At Coco Dental Care, our team includes top-tier specialists in implants, orthodontics, endodontics, and cosmetic dentistry—all trained to meet global standards.
2. Understand the Treatment Plan Fully
Request a consultation and treatment proposal before traveling. Ask for:
A detailed breakdown of procedures
Estimated number of visits
Total treatment timeline
Materials to be used (e.g., implant brands, crown materials)
We offer free virtual consultations to help you prepare before you book flights.
3. Know What’s Included in the Price
Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages that cover:
Dental treatment
Transportation
Lodging
Always ask if costs like lab fees, sedation, or imaging are included. At Coco Dental Care, we give you a comprehensive quote—no surprises.
4. Don’t Compromise on Materials
The cost difference shouldn’t come at the expense of quality. Ask which materials are used for implants, veneers, and crowns. Top brands like Straumann and Nobel Biocare are reliable and long-lasting.
Cheap materials may save money upfront but can lead to costly repairs down the road.
5. Have a Plan for Aftercare
Some treatments (like implants or full-mouth restorations) require multiple visits or follow-ups. Make sure to:
Schedule enough recovery time in Costa Rica
Clarify if remote follow-ups are possible
Know what to do in case of a complication once you're back home
We provide digital check-ins and coordinate with local dentists if needed.
6. Understand Insurance & Legal Protections
Most U.S. dental plans don’t cover overseas treatment, but travel medical insurance might. Ask your provider:
Do they cover dental emergencies abroad?
What legal protections exist if something goes wrong?
At Coco Dental Care, we work with international patients daily and can guide you through the insurance process.
7. Factor in All Travel Logistics
Your smile journey includes more than just the treatment:
Choose a clinic close to your hotel or resort
Book flights early, especially during peak seasons
Plan for recovery time (don’t schedule beach hikes right after implants!)
We’re conveniently located in Playas del Coco, just 30 minutes from Liberia International Airport (LIR).
Why Choose Coco Dental Care in Costa Rica?
✅ State-of-the-Art Technology – From 3D dental CT scans to our in-house digital lab, your treatment is fast, precise, and comfortable.
✅ Experienced Specialists – Led by Dr. Daiana Morales and a team of dedicated experts, we offer everything from root canals to full smile makeovers.
✅ Transparent Pricing – No hidden costs. No cut corners. Just honest care at world-class standards.
✅ Stress-Free Planning – Need help with travel logistics? We’re happy to assist. Many patients use WhatsApp or video consults to finalize their plan before booking.
Real Patients, Real Results
“Dr. Morales is very professional and did a great job with my implants at a fraction of the price I was quoted in the States. It’s been 7 years, and they’re still perfect.” — Alec L.
“28 crowns in 1 week and a completely new smile. I can’t say enough good things about them.” — Michael C.
Ready to Combine a Smile Makeover With a Beach Getaway?
Whether you’re dreaming of veneers, implants, or just a brighter smile, a dental vacation to Costa Rica can offer incredible value if you prepare wisely.

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