Mexico Town with Dentist on Every Corner Draws U.S. and Canada Patients
A small border town in Mexico has the most dentists per square meter in the world and caters primarily to tourists. In Los Algodones Mexico’s dentist offices are not hard to find and offer much cheaper prices as compared to the U.S.
The town’s growing success has attracted more competition from other Mexican dentists all vying to offer cheaper prices and better quality. Undoubtedly this has led to tension across the border as American dentists who charge much higher lose their patients.
A Dentist on Every Corner
The best dentist in Los Algodones, Mexico may not be hard to find since many practices offer similar quality care for much less than their American counterparts. Notably, the town has an average of 1 dentist for every 8 inhabitants and a wide range of services available. These include everything from root canals, to synthetic dental crowns, and of course cavity fillings.
Upon crossing the border from Yuma, Arizona, travelers will find the streets filled with signs advertising different dental practices. Many of the signs are in English to make it more accessible for those who don’t speak Spanish. Particularly, there are over 600 dentist offices just within the town’s four main streets.
Over the years the town has established itself as a haven for cheap dental work which appeals to many who simply cannot afford health insurance in their home countries. In fact, more than 90% of patients come from the U.S. and Canada, where average dental prices are significantly higher.
For example, a cavity repair in the U.S. costs on average $225 USD, whereas a dentist in Algodones Mexico will typically charge $45 USD. Similarly, a dental crown in the states can cost upwards of $1000 USD, while in Mexico the average cost is $300 USD.
This, together with the ability for tourists to purchase certain medications without a prescription, has contributed to the successful medical tourism industry in Mexico.
From Pub Town to ‘Molar City’
Before there were anywhere near as many dentists in Los Algodones, the town was known for its cantinas (pubs) and brothels. However, when Dentist Bernando Magaña arrived in 1969 he saw the potential to attract foreign patients seeking dental work.
In the 1960’s many American and Canadian citizens migrated to Mexico to escape the harsh winters. They sought a milder climate and cheaper cost of living, especially for older citizens with medical conditions. Magaña took advantage of this fact and began advertising to these ‘snowbirds’ who also lived temporarily in cities like Yuma, Arizona.
Soon, other dentists caught on and opened up their own practices in the city where the now ousted pubs and brothels used to be. Los Algodones dentists soon became known for quality and competitive dental procedures that rivaled the more expensive American and Canadian versions.
Tension Grows
These ‘medical tourists’ saved an average of 70% on all their dental procedures, and private insurers even began covering Mexican dental practices in their policies. Of course, this angered American dentists who thought the practices of these dentists were predatory. Specifically, they couldn’t understand how dentists who weren’t licensed to practice in the U.S. could still advertise there.
“I almost see it as predatory,” said Yuma Dentist Howard Sorensen. “You went across the border, you see how they almost grab you and pass out cards. And they come across to Arizona and they advertise in our phone books, on our T.V. and our radio.”
Ultimately, for many border residents in Arizona and California it is convenient to take the short trip to Mexico for cheaper prices with similar quality. For example, San Diego residents might drive down to get dental work in Tijuana and head back the same day. And for many who lack health insurance, it’s just as worth it to make the longer trip by bus or plane.
