When one woman saw her U.S. dentist’s quote for $4,500, she could not believe her eyes. Instead of going through with the expensive treatment, she decided to take a chance—one that led her across the border to Tijuana, Mexico, where she ended up paying only $235 for the same care.
Her experience has gone viral, but she is not alone. Many Americans are now looking for cheaper, trustworthy dental options outside the U.S.—and they are finding them just a few hours away.
Why are Americans traveling to Mexico for dental care?
There is one simple reason: cost. Dental procedures in the U.S. are notoriously expensive, and insurance often does not cover everything. In fact:
- Dental prices in the U.S. increase about 3% to 5% each year
- Most dental insurance plans have annual caps between $1,000 and $2,000
- That leaves many people paying out of pocket for major treatments
So, when this woman was told she needed several procedures totaling $4,500, she knew there had to be a more affordable option.
How much did she pay in Mexico and what was included?
The woman, known on TikTok as @handerplants, went to a clinic in Tijuana for a second opinion. At first, the clinic quoted her around $800, based on the recommendation from her U.S. dentist.
But when they did their own evaluation, the story changed. They told her:
- She did not need several of the procedures the U.S. dentist had recommended
- The deep cleaning she was told was necessary? Not needed at all
- The final cost for her actual dental needs came out to just $235
After the visit, she said:
“It was amazing. I highly recommend them. Excellent service, I will definitely return.”
Are U.S. dentists overprescribing treatments?
Many people in the comments on her viral video shared similar experiences. One person joked,
“The deep cleaning they wanted was from your bank account.”
Another said a dentist in the U.S. claimed he needed six crowns, but a second opinion found he only had one cavity.
These stories raise a real concern: Are patients being advised to get unnecessary treatments just to drive up costs? Some experts believe so, especially when insurance payouts are limited and patients end up footing the bill.
How does dental care in Mexico compare?
Some people worry that going to another country for dental care means lower quality, but many Americans who have made the trip say the opposite. In places like Tijuana, Los Algodones, and Cancún, you will find:
- Modern clinics with updated technology
- Licensed professionals trained in the U.S. or Europe
- English-speaking staff who cater to international patients
- Clean and professional environments
And yes—the prices are dramatically lower.
What other treatments are cheaper abroad?
The dental care story has also sparked comparisons across other types of medical treatments. In the comments section of the viral TikTok, people mentioned:
- A sleep apnea study that cost $15,000 in the U.S., but only $500 in Thailand
- Full dental implant procedures for a fraction of the U.S. price in Costa Rica or Colombia
Medical tourism is nothing new, but it is becoming more popular as healthcare costs continue to rise in the U.S.
What should you know before seeking dental care abroad?
If you are thinking about traveling for medical or dental treatment, here are a few tips:
- Do your research: Look for clinics with good reviews and patient testimonials
- Check credentials: Many international dentists list their certifications and where they trained
- Ask about follow-up care: Know what to do if there is a complication after you return home
- Bring medical records: It helps the dentist understand your treatment history
The woman who went to Tijuana did not just save money—she avoided unnecessary procedures and found a provider she trusted. Her story is a reminder that sometimes, a second opinion can save you thousands.
