A smile makeover in the US may cost you a fortune. But cosmetic dentistry in Colombia saves you thousands of dollars. So, here’s your guide to budget-friendly esthetic dental procedures.
Read ahead to know how to curtail the cost of quality dental services.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Colombia
Cosmetic Dentistry - Happy Inside, Pretty Outside!
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
It refers to any dental procedure aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and your smile.[1]
Cosmetic dentistry complements patients’ overall general and oral health by improving the appearance of your teeth. It is also known as a smile makeover, Hollywood smile, or esthetic dentistry.[2]
Did you know?
According to Oral Health Foundation, a healthy smile is ranked as a physical attribute with a higher likelihood to attract a partner.[3]
Cosmetic dentistry is not recognized as a dental specialty by ADA.[4] But it is an umbrella term for multiple specialties that focus on creating a beautiful smile. They are:
- Orthodontics
- Prosthodontics
- Periodontics and Endodontics, to a lesser extent
When Do I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?
You need cosmetic dentistry for several reasons:[5]
- Tooth Cavities: Decay, especially in front teeth.
- Spaces Between Teeth: Common in the front teeth, often genetic.
- Discolored Teeth: Staining due to excessive tea/coffee or tobacco.
- Missing Teeth: Due to extractions, accidents, or sports injury.
- Crooked Teeth: Difficult to clean, prone to caries & swollen gums.
- Improper Shape/Damaged teeth: e.g., chipped/cracked/worn-out teeth.
- Gum Problems: Gummy smile or receding gums due to bruxism or trauma.
When Do I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?
Common Cosmetic Procedures
Cosmetic dentistry procedures may include changes to the following:
- Alignment of the jaw
- Color, position, shape, or size of teeth
- The overall appearance of the teeth and gums
Some of the routine cosmetic procedures in Colombia include the following:
Dental veneers are thin tooth-colored shells that fit onto the teeth for an enhanced look.
Moreover, they are one of the major cosmetic dentistry procedures.
After removing a minor amount of tooth enamel, veneers are cemented on the surface.
Veneers restore natural tooth form and function.
Porcelain Veneers
They are semi-translucent and thus blend well with the adjacent teeth. In addition, they resist external stains of coffee, tea, and smoke.
However, they are brittle, so you need to be careful during biting/excessive loads.
Composite Veneers
They are less pricey and less durable than porcelain veneers in Colombia.
Did you know?
Lumineers is the #1 patient-requested veneer backed by 30+ years of experience.[6]
Lumineers
These ultra-thin veneers are also k/a as "no-prep veneers. They are Cerinate porcelain with a lower wear rate. So, they are stronger than conventional veneers.
A dental implant is a permanent solution to one or more missing teeth.
You can have all on 4/6/8 implants, depending on your case. Later, a crown, bridge, or implant-supported dentures acts as restorations for implants.
Advantages:
- Long-lasting
- Prevent bone loss
- Look and feel of natural teeth
- Improved speech, comfort, and chewing
Removable dentures are a set of artificial teeth that can be removed from the mouth by the patient.
Dentures can be:
- Removable Partial Dentures (RPD): Replacing a few teeth
- Complete Dentures (Traditional): Replacing all teeth in a jaw
Snap-On Denture
An implant-supported denture combines traditional dentures with dental implants. Such a combination increases retention, stability, and comfort.
Dental bonding can repair a broken or chipped tooth using composite resin.
Additionally, dental bonding can close gaps between teeth. So you can avoid lengthy orthodontic visits.
Dental bonding allows the patient to transition into a permanent treatment. Therefore, also called transitional bonding.
These are indirect fillings that are more conservative than crowns.
Onlays function as partial crowns, as they cover one or more cusps of teeth.
Inlays are restorations within the cusps on a tooth's chewing surface.
Gum contouring restores your gums to a position where you get a pleasing smile. It is also known as tissue sculpting.
If your gums rest too low or high on your teeth (gummy smile), gum reshaping is the solution.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to:
- Cover a dental implant
- Secure a dental bridge in place
- Protect a weak tooth from breaking
- Makeup for poorly shaped or discolored teeth
- Cover and support a tooth that has a large filling
- Restore a broken tooth and a severely worn-out tooth
Ceramic or Porcelain crowns are preferably used for cosmetic purposes.
Dental Bridge
It is a fixed replacement of a single tooth or multiple teeth using the adjacent teeth as support. This creates a literal "bridge" between the remaining and missing teeth.
The teeth stain over time & change color, but whitening can help restore the desired hue. As a result, you can achieve a lighter shade than the original color using a bleaching agent.
You can get brighter teeth at home or at the clinic.
- In-office bleaching using hydrogen peroxides is effective.
- 10-20% carbamide peroxide gel (ADA approves 10%) for overnight (nightguard) bleaching.[7]
Did you know?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that teeth whitening products contain no more than 10% hydrogen peroxide or 35% carbamide peroxide. The ADA has accepted 10±1% carbamide peroxide as the only concentration of whitening product to receive their seal of acceptance.
Want to align crowded teeth or close spaces between teeth? Then, visit an orthodontist for cosmetic dentistry in Colombia. Orthodontic treatment is available in two types:
- Conventional braces (with wires and brackets)
- Invisible braces (clear orthodontic aligners/ transparent)
Source: Colgate[8]
Now that you know what cosmetic dental work includes, you can compare the cost to avail benefits of dental tourism.
How Much is Cosmetic Dentistry Cost in Colombia?
Colombia cosmetic dentistry prices are only a fraction of what you spend in the US or Canada. For instance, teeth whitening treatment costs $650 in the US, while the same is $100 in Colombia. Similarly, porcelain veneer treatment in Colombia costs $428, whereas it is up to $3000 in the US.
The table below gives you insights into how much you save:
| Procedure | US | Canada | Colombia | Approx. Savings |
| Dental Implant | $3,000 | $1,200 | $643 | 78% |
| Porcelain Crowns* | $800 | $750 | $490 | 38% |
| Zirconium Crowns* | $3,000 | $2,000 | $530 | 82% |
| Implant-supported denture | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,000 | 33% |
| Removable complete denture | $1,275 | $760 | $296 | 76% |
| Removable partial denture | $900 | $230 | $285 | 68% |
| Bridgework (1 pontic & 1 crown) | $2,000 | $760 | $350 | 82% |
| Composite Veneers* | $250 | $250 | $125 | 50% |
| Porcelain Veneers* | $3,000 | $3,800 | $428 | 85% |
| In Office Teeth Whitening | $650 | $800 | $100 | 84% |
| Fixed Metal Braces# | $3,000 | $3,000 | $785 | 73% |
| Fixed Clear Braces# | $4,000 | $4,000 | $1250 | 68% |
| Brands used: Straumann, Ankylos | ||||
| *per tooth; ^per jaw prices from online sources; #includes monthly adjustment fees | ||||
*Prices are case-dependent and may subject to change.
Quality cosmetic dental procedures at a low cost is unarguably a great deal in Colombia. Because parallelly, you can enjoy a fun-filled holiday in Gateway to South America.
Why Choose Colombia for Cosmetic Dentistry?
The booming dental tourism in Colombia is responsible for cosmetic dentistry to prosper globally.
Video Courtesy: Lonely Planet
Cost | Savings
The most significant benefit is the cost-saving of up to 80%. The cost of accommodation, travel or daily needs is also low. This means meager overhead costs.[9]
Experienced Dentists | Good Treatment
Colombia has some of the most accredited universities in South America that offer quality dental education. Besides, many dentists pursue their dental training in the US.
Quality of Care | Assurance
The WHO has ranked Colombia at #22 among the 191 countries that they reviewed for healthcare systems. This ranking is way better than that of Canada (#30) and the USA (#37).[10]
Short Travel Time | Easy to Reach
Colombia is around 6 hour of flight journey from the US[11] and a little more from Canada. Its a beautiful place to visit, and the unchanging nature of its climate all year round will surprise you.
Clinics Famous for Cosmetic Dentistry in Colombia
We guide you to the accredited dental clinics in major cities of Colombia - Medellin, Cartagena, Barranquilla, & Cali.
Cosmetic dentistry in Medellin offers a range of services: smile micro design, teeth whitening, dental inlays, porcelain crowns, etc.
Located in Medellin, Colombia, Oralimagen Clinic offers high-quality services using state-of-the-art equipment. The clinic is led by Dr. Johana Ossa Gomez, a specialist in Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry.
It is equipped with over 15 professionals and 3 care units. They ensure precise and reliable diagnoses, using top-quality products.
- 15+ Dentists
- 3+ Treatment Rooms
- CAD/CAM Technology
- Situated in the “City of Eternal Springs”
- Has more than 15 staff members
- Headed by a specialist in Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
International Smiles, situated in Medellin, Colombia, adheres to the highest standards of care as set by the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The clinic boasts state-of-the-art technology and facilities, ensuring top-notch dental services. With commitment to excellence, a wide range of treatments, from routine check-ups to advanced cosmetic and restorative procedures, are being taken care of.
- ISM Experience
- ISO Certified
- CDM Specialist
- Standard care based on the ADA & CDC
- FREE Parking & assistance with local transportation
For implants, same-day crowns, and more, choose cosmetic dentistry in Cartegena.
Sonrisa Perfecta is a leading clinic for dental care in Cartagena, Colombia.
Their skilled team specializes in aesthetics, rehabilitation, and implants.
You can enjoy advanced treatments like Computer Anesthesia and Smile Design for painless results.
With top orthodontists, endodontists, and oral surgeons, they use cutting-edge technology to provide quality dental care.
- 1000+ Happy Patients
- Assists with treatments and travel
- Language: Spanish, English, and German
- FREE dedicated space for parking
Centro de Implantes de la Costa is a top clinic on Colombia's north coast, in Cartagena.
They use advanced German CEREC technology for fast, reliable results.
The clinic offers a full range of services, from general dentistry to specialized oral surgery. Certified since 1999, they bring over 25 years of trusted experience in Colombian dental care.
- 17+ Years of Experience
- 1999 CO Certification
- CEREC Technology
- 17+ years of practice
- German CEREC technology
- Odontological sector with 1999 CO certification
Dental clinics in Barranquilla provide a wide array of low-cost esthetic procedures. For example, smile design, dental implants, and orthodontics.
Carlos Acevedo Odontología offers comprehensive dental care, from smile design to implants.
Led by Dr. Carlos for over 20 years, the clinic serves patients worldwide with 5 dental chairs, a full lab, and tech like CEREC Omnicam.
With 250+ 5-star Google ratings, it’s a trusted dental center.
- 20+ Years of Experience
- CEREC Technology
- Close to the hotel zone
- Parking slots for patients
- Specialist dental care, including smile design, implants, & orthodontics
Barranquilla, Colombia
Denticenter, located in Barranquilla, Colombia, offers comprehensive dental services to both local and international patients.
Founded by Dr. Hernando Salazar Guerra, the clinic has expanded its technology and services over the years. With a team of over 10 specialized dentists, they provide a wide range of treatments under one roof, ensuring high-quality dental care at affordable prices.
- 15+ Dentists
- 12+ Specialties
- ALD Membership
- 14 dental chairs for multiple patients
- 11.12 miles from Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ)
In Cali, you will find out an advanced dental Aesthetics and Implant Center.
This multi-specialty clinic is led by Dr. Juan Fernando Uribe, an internationally trained dentist with two decades of experience.
With over 2,000 implants placed, Dr. Uribe ensures the clinic delivers personalized care using state-of-the-art facilities.
- 25+ Years Dentist Experience
- State-of-the-art Technology
- Airport – hotel pick-up/drop-off from the clinic
Clinic for Cosmetic Dentistry in Colombia
Best Cosmetic Dentists in Colombia
You must know your dentist's achievements and work experience once you are up for a cosmetic procedure. The following table gives you a brief description of the best cosmetic dentists in Colombia.
Dr. Johana Ossa
Dr. Johana Ossa, head of the Oralimagen dental clinic, is certified in Oral Rehabilitation.
Trained in Digital Smile Design by Dr. Christian Coachman, she delivers tailored aesthetic treatments to her patients.
Education
Cooperative University of Colombia
Memberships
- Colombian Society of Prosthodontics
Dr. Alejandro Martinez
Dr. Alejandro Martinez specializes in Integral Adult Dentistry with a focus on periodontics.
He regularly attends professional events, including seminars on periodontics, bone regeneration, and TMJ disorders.
Dr. Alejandro has extensive expertise in both public and private sectors.
Education
University of Antioquia
Memberships
- The Colombian Association of Periodontics
Dr. Adriana Castano
Dr. Adriana Castano is an American Board-certified Periodontist and the Founder of International Smiles, Medellin, Colombia.
In 2000, she joined the International Exchange program at Harvard Dental School.She obtained her Periodontist certification from Nova Southeastern University and is licensed in Florida and Texas.
She practiced periodontics in the U.S. for three years.
Education
CES University
Dr.Tarsys Loayza
Dr.Tarsys Loayza, founder of Sonrisa Perfecta Dental, pioneered spa-type clinics in Latin America.
With 28+ years of experience, she won the "Rose of Paracelsus" Healthcare Award in 2022. Recognized as one of the World's Top 100 Doctors in 2022, she also has mastery of Smile Design Software.
Dr. Tarsys owns Sonrisa Renaissance Hollywood®, the first trademarked smile brand globally.
Education
University of Cartagena
Memberships
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- International Academy of Aesthetics
Karim Stefanell
Dr. Karim Stefanell is an orthodontist with over 25 years of experience in the field. He holds a DDS in dentistry and has earned a specialty degree in orthodontics.
His expertise covers a wide range of orthodontic treatments, including aligners and braces.
Dr. Stefanell is highly regarded for his skills and commitment to patient care, making him a trusted professional in orthodontics.
Memberships
- Colombian Dental Association
Travel Tips to Colombia
We at MTC want you to reach your destination safely. So, if you are all set to backpack for Colombia, read these helpful tips:
- Tourists staying for 90 days or less won't need a visa.
- If driving to Colombia, you must get an entry stamp on your passport.
- You may have to present paper/digital vaccination certificates
- All travelers must complete an online form ('Check-Mig') before making an entry or exit
Border Crossing
Due to a high crime risk, do not cross through these border areas:
- Venezuela-Colombia border or 20 km of the Venezuelan border
- Panama-Colombia border or the Darién Gap (except the town of Capurganá)
- Within 20 km of the Ecuador border, except for the Pan-American highway crossing at Ipia
Source: Smartraveller[12]
Patient Testimonials
If you are planning to visit Colombia for dental treatment, do watch these patients' testimonials. Get a better idea by knowing real experiences.
Happy Patient: Dentistry in Cartagena, Colombia
Patient Testimonial: Dentistry in Medellin, Colombia
FAQs: Cosmetic Dentistry in Colombia
The cost of porcelain veneers in Colombia is merely 428 USD per unit. Also, composite veneers in Colombia are 125 USD per tooth. On the contrary, you may have to outlay up to 38000 USD for a set of 10 porcelain veneers in the US & Canada.
Thus, veneers in Colombia save ~ 85% of that dental cost in the US.
| Dental Veneers | Cost in USD |
| Composite Veneers (per tooth) | $125 |
| Porcelain Veneer (per tooth) | $428 |
| 8 Porcelain Veneers | $3424 |
| 16 Porcelain Veneers | $6848 |
| 10 Porcelain Veneers | $4280 |
| 20 Porcelain Veneers | $8560 |
Safety was an issue once upon a time in Colombia. However, things have improved now. According to the Overseas Security Advisory Council, the attacks committed by the FARC have stopped almost entirely.[13]
However, it is essential to be vigilant and avoid visiting known dangerous places. You just need to exercise caution and be sensible to stay safe.
Firstly, if you want a smile makeover, you must visit a cosmetic dentist. He is the one who performs teeth whitening, veneers, braces, implants, etc.
Secondly, if you are concerned that the procedure may involve cutting healthy teeth, go for conservative options. For example, teeth whitening or lumineers.
For more details, read about cosmetic procedures.
Treatment with dental implants or teeth whitening might fail in smokers. This is because smoking affects your gums & increases the risk of implant failure. Also, the smoke will continue to stain the teeth.
Therefore, it is advisable that you quit smoking before dental implants or whitening treatments.
Inference
The growing dental tourism is booming the scope of esthetic dentistry in Colombia. So, now you can get your smile designed the way you want.
Moreover, you can preserve your savings from draining recklessly in the US. Best of all, Medicaltourismco helps you plan your trip hassle-free.
References
1. American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry: Dental Patients
2. Researchgate: Reframing Perceptions in Restorative Dentistry...
3. Dental health: A ‘healthy smile’ and ‘fresh breath’ are the keys...
4. NCRDSCB: Specialty Definitions
5. Researchgate: Dental Aesthetics: A Study Comparing Patients’...
6. Denmat: Lumineers - Porcelain Veneers
7. PubMed Central: A Critical Review of Modern Concepts for Teeth Whitening
8. Colgate: 5 Helpful Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures...
9. Expatistan: 5 Cost of living in Colombia'
10. CNBC: 4 countries with the best health care
11. Travel math: The flight time from United States to Colombia is...
12. osac.gov: Colombia 2019 Crime & Safety Report: Cartagena
