Costa Rica, Spanish for “rich coast”, is known for its ecotourism, kind locals, and beautiful sights to see. Few tourist destinations offer all three! Recently it has become a country for cost-conscious Americans and Canadians seeking dental care, as Costa Rica’s two hospitals and numerous smaller, private clinics offer top-of-the-line service. Idyllic scenery and unique “recovery lodges” make Costa Rica a prime place for the medical traveler.
The World Health Organization has ranked Costa Rica as one of the top three healthcare systems in Latin America and the nation consistently ranks higher in healthcare than many of its industrialized counterparts including Canada and the United States.
Visiting the dentist is an important thing that each person needs to do at one point or another. Whether you are going for a dental check-up or you want to solve a particular dental problem, it is important that you find the right dentist who will be able to meet your specific needs. Most Americans and Canadians cannot afford regular dental care at home, but in Costa Rica it is extremely affordable.
So, you might be asking yourself how to find the right dentist who will be able to meet your specific needs. Luckily, here is a list of some important features that you should look for when choosing a dentist:
- Experience and Training
Adequate experience is an important characteristic that your dentist should have. They should be able to tell you where they studied and for how long they have been practicing. A significant amount of experience often shows that they have seen a large number of cases, hence they will be able to accurately diagnose and treat your dental problem in the best possible way.
- Proper Facilities
Your dentist’s clinic should be well-equipped with high-quality medical facilities and equipment. This includes a proper dentist’s chair and top-notch surgical tools. You should also inspect the waiting room and reception area. Comfortable furniture and attractive décor often indicate that the dentist genuinely cares about his/her patients and hence they are seeking to create a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere.
In Costa Rica you can find companies like Care Overseas that already have pre-selected dental clinics and help you plan your entire trip. They will assist you during your stay, so you will never be alone in the process.
- Type of Services Offered
This is the next important aspect that you need to consider when choosing a dentist. There are many different types of dental services, including family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and even holistic dentistry. It is recommended that you find a dentist who can provide a wide variety of services to suit your needs.
- Friendly Staff
You should observe how the staff at the dentist’s clinic responds to your inquiry. Are they rude and uncaring? Or are they helpful and polite? This will often give you a clear understanding of the work ethic and attitudes at the dental facility. Be sure to choose a dental clinic with an excellent team of friendly staff where your needs will be met in the best possible way.
Thus, next time you feel like you need to see the dentist, remember not only can you see them cheaper in Costa Rica, but you will also get to experience an amazing country at the same time. It is win-win situation!
