Buyer Beware!
Many fine practitioners in Costa Rica, both general dentists and specialists, are becoming increasingly concerned about the ‘bidding war’ occurring among dentists fueled by potential patients from the states “shopping” treatment plans these people have received from their local dentists.
The result of this situation is a steady increase in the number of questionable treatments using questionable materials. There are many fine dentists who practice in Costa Rica providing excellent care and utilizing excellent products, conforming to ADA standards and specifications. However, the cost to these dentists for materials is higher than the fees offered by other dentists!
One guide to assist patients is to visit the web site of Colegio de Cirujanos Dentistas de Costa Rica international code + 506-256-3100 or click here. Look at the left column for Tarifas Minimas. There will be 3 columns Concepto (procedure) Rango Bajo (minimal treatment cost recommended by the Colegio) rango alto (higher fee recommended). The money exchange rate at this moment is $1= 500 colones. If the dentist you contact is offering fees lower or higher than this range it would be prudent to ask why. For example with Implant reconstruction the Branemark style implant fixture is one of the most widely used styles, because of the quality of the product and history of success. The cost to the surgeon per implant in the surgical placement is between $200-300. This price does not include fees, fixed overhead, disposable products, possible necessary bone grafts, sinus lifts, etc. The prosthodontist or restorative dentist pays, for proper reconstruction $250, for the restorative components necessary- not including laboratory work and other costs.
There are other less expensive implant systems available. But like other dental products, there is a range of costs which usually reflect the quality and long term success of the material.
It is difficult for the layman to determine which product is the best. The manufacturer will claim their product is excellent. The Colegio determines these fees based on specific facts.
Our recommendation is:
- Make certain you are being offered the treatment plan that will reflect your needs
- Review the credentials, education, and experience of the dentist.
- Does the cost for treatment offered reflect a reasonable fee?
There is an ‘old’ expression which may be applicable:
“You get what you pay for”
Project Talamanca
Report: Project Talamanca
Campo de Trabajo: April 13,14,15,16/ 2006
Location: La Finca Educativa, Shiroles territorio Indígena de Talamanca
Population: Bribris y Cabecares
Group:
Dr. Peter Aborn: group director and coordinator
Dr. Luis Boza: director/coordinator of clinic activities; senior operator
Dr. Javier Pereira: coordinator of logistics and senior operator
Sra. Mayra Ramirez: coordinator of dental assisting and sterilization
more…
Don’t let this happen to you
This is why you need a good dentist. more…
Share ThisReconstruction Post-Trauma
It’s very common to see kids running and jumping everywhere and it is inevitable for them to fall down and sometimes hit their mouth.
There are several things that you as a mom or dad can expect if this accident happens. The upper or lower lip injury bleeds a lot so the first thing to do is stop the bleeding by applying firm pressure to the area. When you achieve a proper blood clot you are going to look in the oral cavity for a broken or loose tooth and bleeding. This information is crucial for your dentist. more…
Share ThisAsk the Doctors
If you want to inquire our dentists about general dental health or a procedure you’re interest in, please go to the contact us page and fill out the form, on contact reason choose: ask the doctors a question, and enter your message, we will be happy to clear any doubt.
With your permission we will post the answers on the Dentistry Articles section.
Share This