Dental Tourism in Colombia: My Experience with Implants and Veneers
By Richard Desbiens, Quebec, Canada
My Journey to the Dental Tourism Paradise in Colombia
When my teeth began to fail me, I faced a devastating reality in Quebec: I needed several dental implants and veneers, with a budget exceeding $60,000 CAD. Like many Canadians, my dental insurance covered just a fraction of that amount. It was then that a friend mentioned something that would change my life: “Have you considered dental tourism in Colombia?”
I confess that my first reaction was skepticism. Colombia? For dental treatment? Questions flooded my mind: Would it be safe? Would the quality compare to that of Canada? Was it worth traveling so far for a dental procedure?
Today, as I write this article with my perfect new smile, I can answer with absolute conviction: yes, without a doubt.
What Is Dental Tourism in Colombia Really?
Dental tourism is a growing phenomenon that combines dental treatment with tourist experiences in countries where dental care is high quality but significantly more affordable. Colombia has positioned itself as one of the preferred destinations for this type of tourism, especially for North Americans and Europeans.
What began as an alternative to save on expensive treatments has become an entire industry. Colombian dentists have perfectly understood this opportunity, creating specialized clinics to serve international patients, with standards that equal or exceed those of developed countries.
Why I Chose Colombia For My Dental Implants
My research led me to compare several popular destinations for dental tourism: Mexico, Costa Rica, Thailand, and Colombia. Although all offered significant savings, Colombia stood out for several factors:
- Unbeatable quality-price ratio: Dental implants in Colombia use the same brands and materials as in North America, but at a third or even a quarter of the cost.
- Advanced techniques not available in Canada: Strategic implantology with immediate loading, a procedure I discovered is not yet available in Canada.
- Advanced specialization: Colombian dentists often have international training and certifications in the most modern techniques.
- First-class medical infrastructure: Dental clinics in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena have cutting-edge technology.
- Tourist appeal: Colombia offers astonishing geographic and cultural diversity that makes recovery a pleasant experience.
Contact us
Our Schedule
Sat: 8:00 - 13:00
My Encounter with Dr. Johanna Calderón: An Expert in Dental Tourism in Colombia
After weeks of research, I contacted several clinics specializing in dental tourism in Colombia. What ultimately inclined me toward Dr. Johanna Calderón was her personalized approach from the very first email.
The doctor, specialized in oral rehabilitation and implantology at a prestigious Colombian university, offered me a free virtual consultation. During this 45-minute session, she analyzed my X-rays, explained my situation in detail, and presented me with a complete treatment plan with clear options and budgets.
The Treatment Plan: Dental Implants in Colombia and More
My case required comprehensive treatment:
- 7 dental implants
- 6 root canals (endodontic treatments)
- 6 crowns over roots after root canals
- 10 dental veneers
- Dental whitening
- Deep cleaning
In Canada, this complete treatment would have cost approximately $60,000 CAD. The budget in Colombia: only a third of that amount, which represented an extraordinary saving.
What impressed me most was Dr. Calderón’s suggestion to use the strategic implantology technique with immediate loading, a procedure that, as she explained, would allow me to return home with temporary fixed teeth on the implants during my first visit, something that wasn’t available in Canada.
Current Prices for Dental Implants in Colombia (2025)
Part of my research included an exhaustive analysis of prices. Here I share updated information on the cost of the most popular dental treatments in Colombia during 2025:
Costs of Dental Implants in Colombia
| Procedure | Average price in Colombia (USD) | Price in USA/Canada (USD) | Approximate savings |
| Individual dental implant (conventional) | $750 – $1,200 | $3,000 – $4,500 | 70-75% |
| Strategic implantology (per implant) | $900 – $1,400 | Not available/Limited | N/A |
| Temporary crowns on implants | $200 – $350 | $500 – $800 | 60% |
| Definitive zirconia crowns | $300 – $500 | $1,000 – $1,800 | 70% |
| All-on-4 (full arch) | $5,000 – $8,000 | $20,000 – $30,000 | 70-75% |
| All-on-6 (full arch) | $7,000 – $10,000 | $24,000 – $35,000 | 70-75% |
Costs of Dental Veneers in Colombia
| Type of Veneer | Price per unit in Colombia (USD) | Price in USA/Canada (USD) | Approximate savings |
| Composite veneers | $120 – $200 | $400 – $800 | 70-75% |
| Porcelain veneers | $350 – $500 | $1,000 – $2,500 | 65-80% |
| Lithium disilicate veneers (E-max) | $400 – $600 | $1,200 – $2,800 | 65-80% |
| Minimally invasive veneers | $450 – $650 | $1,500 – $3,000 | 70-80% |
Other Dental Treatments
| Treatment | Price in Colombia (USD) | Price in USA/Canada (USD) | Approximate savings |
| Root canal (endodontics) | $150 – $300 | $700 – $1,500 | 75-80% |
| Crown over root (zirconia) | $300 – $500 | $1,000 – $1,800 | 70% |
| Dental whitening | $150 – $300 | $500 – $1,000 | 70% |
| Deep cleaning | $80 – $150 | $200 – $400 | 60-70% |
These prices may vary depending on the city, clinic, and specialist, but they represent a realistic average according to my research and experience.
Contact us
Our Schedule
Sat: 8:00 - 13:00
My Journey: Strategic Implantology and Dental Tourism in Colombia
First Visit (7 days): Immediate Loading Implants
I landed at El Dorado, Bogotá’s international airport, where a representative from the clinic was waiting for me with a sign bearing my name. This pickup service was included in my dental tourism package.
Modern Bogotá welcomed me with its unique blend of colonial history and contemporary architecture. My first consultation with Dr. Calderón was the day after my arrival. The clinic, located in an exclusive area of the city, had nothing to envy of the best in Montreal or Toronto.
The team performed a 3D scan of my mouth, blood tests, and a complete evaluation. The doctor confirmed the treatment plan but explained in detail the strategic implantology technique, its advantages, and why it was ideal for my case.
Unlike conventional implantology that requires months of waiting between implant placement and the crown, strategic implantology with immediate loading would allow me to:
- Place implants and temporary fixed teeth in a single visit
- Avoid additional bone grafts, taking advantage of available bone
- Less invasive procedure with faster recovery
- Less inflammation and practically no bruising
The most surprising thing was that during the procedure I experienced no pain whatsoever, despite not using conscious sedation. The local anesthesia was perfectly administered, and the minimally invasive surgical technique fulfilled its promise.
By the third day of my arrival, I already had my seven implants placed and fixed temporary crowns on them. I could smile, talk, and eat normally (although following a soft diet as recommended by the doctor).
I spent the remaining days of my first visit exploring Cartagena, a colonial jewel on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. With my new temporary smile, I enjoyed:
- Walks through the walled city
- The vibrant nightlife
- Delicious Caribbean cuisine
- Excursions to nearby islands
Second Visit (10 days): Complete Dental Transformation
Eight months after my first visit, I returned to Colombia to complete my treatment. By then, my implants were perfectly osseointegrated with the bone, which allowed us to proceed with:
- Replacement of temporary crowns over implants with definitive zirconia crowns
- Completion of root canal treatments on six teeth
- Placement of zirconia crowns on these treated teeth
- Installation of ten dental veneers on the remaining teeth
- Dental whitening to harmonize the color
- Polishing and final adjustments
The result was a total transformation. The difference between how I arrived in Colombia on my first visit and how I looked now was impressive. Not only had I regained full functionality of my teeth, but I now had a natural, harmonious, and radiant smile.
Contact us
Our Schedule
Sat: 8:00 - 13:00
Why Strategic Implantology Makes the Difference
One of the great advantages of dental tourism in Colombia is access to advanced techniques such as strategic implantology. This technique, compared to conventional implantology, offers:
| Aspect | Conventional Implantology | Strategic Implantology |
| Treatment time | 3-8 months | Provisional fixed teeth the same day |
| Number of surgeries | Multiple | Generally one |
| Need for bone grafts | Frequent | Rarely necessary |
| Recovery time | Weeks | Days |
| Total time in clinic | Multiple visits | Fewer visits |
| Pain and inflammation | Moderate to severe | Minimal |
| Total cost | Higher (includes additional procedures) | Generally lower |
For international patients like me, being able to complete the surgical phase and obtain functional teeth in a single visit represents an extraordinary advantage.
Colombia: Much More Than Dental Implants
Between my two visits to complete my dental treatment, I had the opportunity to explore Colombia and discovered a country that defies all stereotypes:
The Magic of Cartagena
During my first visit, after the placement of the implants, I enjoyed Cartagena de Indias, a colonial jewel of the Caribbean:
- Its cobblestone streets and flowered balconies
- The imposing wall surrounding the historic center
- White sand beaches and crystal-clear waters
- A unique gastronomic fusion of Caribbean, African, and Spanish flavors
Bogotá: Cosmopolitan Capital
On my second visit, I explored Bogotá more thoroughly:
- The historic La Candelaria district
- The Gold Museum, with its impressive pre-Columbian collection
- The cable car to Monserrate, with panoramic views of the city
- The vibrant gastronomic and cultural scene
What impressed me most was how I could combine a highly complex dental treatment with enriching tourist experiences, all at a significantly lower cost than what I would have spent on dental treatment alone in Canada.
Why Colombia Surpasses Other Dental Tourism Destinations
Having researched extensively before my trip, I can share why Colombia has become a premium destination for dental tourism:
-
Advanced and Innovative Techniques
Colombia has adopted cutting-edge techniques such as strategic implantology with immediate loading, which are not widely available in North America or Europe, or have prohibitive costs.
-
Qualifications of Colombian Dentists
Colombian dentists typically complete 5 years of university education, followed by 2-3 additional years of specialization. Many complement their training with constant international education.
Dr. Johanna Calderón, for example, completed her specialization at a prestigious Colombian university and regularly attends international conferences to stay updated with the latest techniques.
-
Cutting-Edge Technology
Clinics oriented toward dental tourism invest in state-of-the-art technology:
- 3D intraoral scanners that eliminate the need for traditional molds
- CAD/CAM systems for digital prosthesis manufacturing
- Digital X-ray equipment that minimizes radiation exposure
- Computer-guided surgical planning systems
4. Complete Dental Tourism Packages in Colombia
What truly distinguishes Colombia is the complete integration of services:
- Coordination of medical appointments prior to arrival
- Assistance with flight and accommodation reservations
- Transportation to and from the airport
- Interpreters for non-Spanish speaking patients
- Tourist activities between procedures
- Post-treatment follow-up even after returning home
Contact us
Our Schedule
Sat: 8:00 - 13:00
Comparison: Dental Implants in Colombia vs. Other Countries
As part of my research, I created a comparison between the main dental tourism destinations:
| Country | Dental implant cost | Availability of strategic implantology | Quality | Tourist appeal |
| Colombia | $750-1,400 | Widely available | Excellent | Diverse and affordable |
| Mexico | $700-1,100 | Limited | Good-Excellent | Beaches and culture |
| Costa Rica | $800-1,300 | Very limited | Very good | Ecotourism |
| Thailand | $900-1,400 | Limited | Very good | Exotic and affordable |
| USA/Canada | $3,000-4,500 | Rare or nonexistent | Excellent | N/A |
Tips For Those Considering Veneers in Colombia or Dental Implants
Based on my experience, I share these tips for those contemplating traveling to Colombia for dental treatment:
-
Thorough Research
- Request virtual consultations with at least three different clinics
- Verify credentials and review testimonials from other international patients
- Ask specifically about available techniques, such as strategic implantology
- Verify brands of implants or materials used
-
Adequate Time Planning
- With strategic implantology, plan a first visit of 7-10 days for implant placement and temporary teeth
- The second visit (generally 6-8 months later) requires approximately 10 days for placement of definitive prostheses
- Consider the possibility of combining several procedures in a single trip
-
Realistic Budget
- In addition to treatment, consider expenses for flights, accommodation, and food
- Reserve an additional 10-15% for possible contingencies or additional treatments
- Check with your insurance if it covers any part of treatment abroad
-
Clear Communication
- Confirm that the clinic has staff who speak your language
- Establish clear expectations about results and recovery times
- Request a detailed follow-up plan for when you return home
My Final Experience with Dental Tourism in Colombia
My experience with dental tourism in Colombia transformed not only my smile but also my quality of life. In total, I was in Colombia for just 17 days (7 on the first visit and 10 on the second), and I managed to complete a dental treatment that in Canada would have required many more months, multiple procedures, and three times the cost.
The total cost, including all dental procedures, flights, accommodation, food, and tourist activities was approximately one-third of what I would have paid for dental treatment alone in Canada, an extraordinary saving.
The possibility of accessing advanced techniques such as strategic implantology with immediate loading, which allowed me to have fixed teeth the same day as surgery and without the need for bone grafts, made a crucial difference in my experience.
The most surprising thing was the absence of significant pain and inflammation. Recovery was quick, and I was able to enjoy tourist activities almost immediately after the procedures.
Conclusion: Is Dental Tourism in Colombia Worth It?
Without hesitation: yes. Colombia offers a perfect combination of medical excellence, advanced techniques, affordable prices, and enriching tourist experiences. Whether you need dental implants in Colombia, veneers, or any other dental treatment, you will find trained professionals working with the highest international standards.
My experience with Dr. Johanna Calderón not only transformed my smile but also my perspective on international dental care. The radical change in my appearance, going from deteriorated teeth to a perfect and natural smile, has had a profound impact on my self-esteem and quality of life.
Since then, I have recommended dental tourism in Colombia to family and friends, several of whom have already followed in my footsteps with equally satisfactory results.
If you are considering significant dental treatment and the cost in your country seems prohibitive, I invite you to explore this alternative. Colombia will not only save your smile but will also offer you an experience you will remember for a lifetime.
Richard Desbiens is a financial consultant from Quebec, Canada, who after his personal experience with dental tourism in Colombia, has become an enthusiastic advocate for this option for Canadians and Americans seeking quality alternatives for expensive dental treatments.
Contact us
Our Schedule
Sat: 8:00 - 13:00
Do not hesitate to write us to know your case and advise you in the process, we attend at Ibagué, Bogotá, Cali, Medellín, Barranquilla y Cartagena.
Visit our networks and know a little more about us, you find us on instagram as @periodoncista_johanna_calderon and Facebook as @DraJohannaCalderon
