15 Questions to Ask Before Booking Dental Tourism

"What brand of implants do you use?"

Good answers: Straumann, Nobel Biocare, BioHorizons, Zimmer Biomet, Neodent.

🚩 Red flag: "We use premium implants" without naming brands.

"What material are the veneers made from?"

Good answers: IPS e.max (lithium disilicate), feldspathic porcelain, zirconia. For composite: 3M, Ivoclar.

🚩 Red flag: Vague answers like "porcelain" or "ceramic" without specifics.

"Will I receive documentation of the materials used?"

Good answer: Yes, you'll get a certificate/card with implant serial numbers and material specifications. This is essential for future care.

"Where did the dentist complete their training?"

Good answer: Specific university (Universidad de Antioquia, Universidad CES, etc.) plus any international training (NYU, UCLA, etc.). Should be able to provide credentials.

"Can I see your habilitación certification?"

Good answer: Yes (or it's displayed on website/in clinic). This is Colombia's mandatory operating license. No legitimate clinic operates without it.

"How many years have you been treating international patients?"

Good answer: 5+ years with specific volume ("We see 500+ international patients per year"). Experience with American patients means they understand your expectations.

"Can I see before/after photos of similar cases?"

Good answer: Yes, with varied results (not all identical smiles). Photos should show natural-looking outcomes customized to each patient.

"What's the total cost, itemized?"

Good answer: Detailed breakdown showing each procedure, cost per tooth, and what's included (X-rays, follow-ups, etc.). No hidden fees.

"How many appointments will I need, and how many days should I stay?"

Good answer: Clear timeline with buffer for adjustments. They should know how long your specific procedure takes.

"What warranty do you offer, and what does it cover?"

Good answers: Porcelain veneers 1-3 years, implants 3-5 years or lifetime. Should cover defects, debonding, failure.

🚩 Red flag: No warranty or vague terms.

"What happens if I have a problem after I return home?"

Good answer: WhatsApp support, remote assessment via photos/video, guidance on local care if needed, coverage for return trip corrections under warranty.

"Will I receive documentation for my U.S. dentist?"

Good answer: Yes — treatment records, X-rays, material specifications, implant serial numbers. Everything a U.S. dentist would need for follow-up care.

"Do you offer airport pickup and transportation to appointments?"

Good answer: Yes, included for patients above certain spending threshold (often $2,500-3,000+). This is standard at quality clinics.

"Do you have English-speaking staff?"

Good answer: Yes — dentist and coordinator both speak English fluently. Communication shouldn't be a barrier during treatment.

"What payment methods do you accept, and when is payment due?"

Good answer: Clear deposit/payment terms. Most accept credit cards (though may add 3-4% fee), wire transfer, and USD cash. Full payment often due before final restoration.