Dr. Mario Garita talks about pioneering a niche market for dental tourism in Costa Rica.

In the early 80s, dental tourism began to make inroads in Costa Rica. Doctor Garita’s father, also a dentist, noticed an increase in tourists coming into his office off Plaza La Ventura for dental emergencies. Without exception, these patients were pleasantly surprised by the low cost of treatment.

Fresh out of University, Dr. Mario Garita began to explore the market for dental tourism. Because the Internet was in its infancy, the Garitas relied on brochures left at hotels and with tour operators. That meant a lot of telephone work but the Garitas were the only ones in Costa Rica engaging visitors from the U.S. and Canada who had dental emergencies while on vacation.

Before long, his uncle who was in advertising, suggested a website. Dr. Mario said, “I had no idea what that was, but I said why not.” Over time, his office has developed a list of lodging options, all close to his office, for patients.

Twenty-eight years later, Dr. Mario is focused on dental tourism as never before.

“The cost difference is so great that people will come to Costa Rica for dental treatment. Although people in the States pay for dental insurance, that coverage is limited to 50% of the cost of the procedure. Often their insurance also limits the annual payout to $2,500. Our charges are about 60% less than in the U.S. and Canada. We use computer-aided design to do the work in-house.”

Doctor Mario Garita

In the States an Invisalign dental appliance can cost as much as $15,000 while in Costa Rica the cost is only $6,000. Using a 3D printer, Dr. Mario fits his Clearaligner in one visit and the patient learns to make necessary adjustments to the fit herself when she’s back home.

Even adding up lodging and airfare, it’s still cheaper to have dental work such as implants, crowns, and other extensive procedures done in Dr. Mario’s office. On average, patients have a week of daily visits and the work is guaranteed. Financing is easy, done through his website, dentalimplantscr.com, and approval is usually fast. In addition, Dr. Mario’s office will provide the patient with the necessary forms to make a claim for reimbursement from her own insurance.

Highly trained at the best Universities (both in Costa Rica and in the United States), and skilled in the latest technology, Dr. Mario Garita and all of his staff members, including doctors and techicians, have decades of combined experience.

Given that 20 to 30 million Americans need dental care but can’t afford it. Dental tourism provides them with an opportunity for quality care at a fraction of the cost. The added bonus is a chance to visit beautiful Costa Rica.

For more information about:

• available treatments,
• a consultation on your own specific dental treatment or
• surgery needs,
• and travel details
• as well as cost information,

Reach out to one of our team members today. Our expertly trained staff are standing by to assist you. Come to Costa Rica and get your on the road to that beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.