A successful dental tourism trip starts with preparation. Here's everything you need to do — organized by timeline — so nothing falls through the cracks.
4+ Weeks Before
☐ Choose and Vet Your Clinic
- ☐ Research 3-5 clinics
- ☐ Check Google and RealSelf reviews
- ☐ Verify habilitación certification
- ☐ Request virtual consultations
- ☐ Compare treatment plans and pricing
- ☐ Confirm material brands in writing
- ☐ Get warranty terms documented
- ☐ Make final clinic selection
☐ Medical Preparation
- ☐ Get current dental X-rays (panoramic preferred)
- ☐ Send records to Colombian clinic
- ☐ Complete virtual consultation
- ☐ Disclose all medical conditions and medications
- ☐ Get medical clearance if you have chronic conditions
- ☐ Ask about pre-procedure instructions (stop blood thinners, etc.)
☐ Book Travel
- ☐ Book flights (flexible tickets recommended)
- ☐ Book accommodation in El Poblado or Laureles
- ☐ Arrange airport transfer with clinic (often included)
- ☐ Confirm dates with clinic coordinator
2 Weeks Before
☐ Documents & Admin
- ☐ Verify passport validity (6+ months recommended)
- ☐ No visa needed for U.S. citizens (90 days automatic)
- ☐ Print/save treatment plan and payment agreement
- ☐ Save clinic contact info (WhatsApp numbers)
- ☐ Notify your bank/credit cards of travel
- ☐ Purchase travel insurance (covers emergencies, not elective procedures)
☐ Financial Preparation
- ☐ Confirm payment methods accepted (credit card, wire, cash)
- ☐ Understand deposit requirements
- ☐ Get some USD cash for emergencies ($200-300)
- ☐ Set up Wise or similar for good exchange rates
- ☐ If using HSA/FSA, confirm documentation needed
1 Week Before
☐ Final Confirmations
- ☐ Reconfirm first appointment time with clinic
- ☐ Confirm airport pickup details
- ☐ Download offline Google Maps for Medellín
- ☐ Download Google Translate with Spanish offline
- ☐ Download Uber app
- ☐ Save important addresses (clinic, hotel, airport)
☐ Health Prep
- ☐ Stop aspirin/ibuprofen if advised (5-7 days before surgery)
- ☐ Stop smoking if possible (affects healing)
- ☐ Fill any prescriptions you'll need while away
- ☐ Pack current medications in carry-on
Packing Checklist
Essential Documents
- ☐ Passport
- ☐ Flight itinerary (printed)
- ☐ Hotel confirmation
- ☐ Treatment plan/quote
- ☐ Dental X-rays (digital on phone)
- ☐ Travel insurance info
- ☐ Emergency contacts list
- ☐ Credit cards (2+ recommended)
Health & Recovery
- ☐ Current medications
- ☐ Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- ☐ Travel-size mouthwash
- ☐ Soft toothbrush
- ☐ Lip balm (lips get dry during procedures)
- ☐ Neck pillow (for flights post-procedure)
- ☐ Reusable ice pack
Tech & Communication
- ☐ Phone + charger
- ☐ Portable battery pack
- ☐ Headphones (for waiting rooms)
- ☐ No adapter needed (same outlets as USA)
Clothing
- ☐ Light layers (72°F average)
- ☐ Comfortable walking shoes
- ☐ Light rain jacket (brief showers common)
- ☐ Comfortable clothes for recovery days
- ☐ Button-down shirts (easier than pullovers if face is swollen)
Day Before Departure
Final Checks
- ☐ Charge all devices
- ☐ Check in for flight online
- ☐ Confirm pickup time with clinic/driver
- ☐ Set out-of-office email reply
- ☐ Give family/friends your itinerary
- ☐ Light, easy dinner (you may be fasting for procedure)
- ☐ Get good sleep
Upon Arrival in Medellín
- ☐ Text clinic coordinator that you've landed
- ☐ Meet driver at designated pickup point
- ☐ Connect to hotel WiFi
- ☐ Confirm first appointment time
- ☐ Get local SIM card if needed (Claro or Tigo, ~$10)
- ☐ Rest and hydrate (altitude adjustment)
- ☐ Avoid alcohol night before procedure
Pro Tips
- Book a hotel with breakfast included — Recovery mornings are easier when food is waiting.
- Stay within walking distance of the clinic — Less logistics when you're recovering.
- Keep your schedule light — Don't book tours or activities for procedure days.
- Have WhatsApp ready — It's how everyone communicates in Colombia.
- Bring entertainment — Books, shows downloaded on your device for recovery time.
After You Return Home
- ☐ Follow aftercare instructions from clinic
- ☐ Send photos to clinic if requested (healing check)
- ☐ Keep all receipts for HSA/FSA reimbursement
- ☐ Save clinic WhatsApp contact for any questions
- ☐ Schedule local dentist for routine cleanings going forward
- ☐ For implants: book return trip for final restoration (4-6 months)
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