Last fact-checked: 19 June 2023

Looking to replace one or more missing teeth without blowing all your savings back home? Then look no further than Cancun for premium dental implants, where you can find savings of up to 65% on the cost of your new, permanently-fixed prosthetic teeth compared to the United States and Canada. 

At Dental Departures, we have partnered with many of the best dentists in Cancun for dental implants, as well as hundreds of other board-registered specialists throughout Mexico. You can start by selecting one of our pre-screened clinics and book an appointment through us to get exclusive discounts on your next dental treatment. 

Below, find out more about implant prices in Cancun, recommended clinics, different teeth replacement options, useful travel tips and more.

Why is Cancun such a dream dental destination? Aside from its pristine beaches and luxury resorts, Cancun offers some of the most competitive prices for dental implants, with a range of tooth replacement options: 

• For instance, a single implant with abutment and standard crown in the United States costs around $1,300 - $2,000; the same dental implant treatment in Cancun starts at approximately $700. That’s a saving of over 60%.
   
• For a full mouth restoration (eg. All-on-4), prices in the US start at approximately $20,000 per arch; our partner dentists in Cancun charge as little as $8,000 - $10,000 – including all essential treatment costs.

The table below shows the estimated average cost of different types of implants available in Cancun compared to the United States:

Note: The above prices are average figures provided by our network of partner clinics, with averages calculated at the time of writing. Please check our individual clinic listings for current pricing.

Are There Any Hidden Costs?

In case you need additional treatment before the placement of implants, such as extractions or bone grafting (if there is insufficient bone density), additional costs will need to be discussed during your consultation at the clinic. 

Another factor that determines how much your final bill will be is whether or not the clinic includes essential treatment charges in your initial price quote. For example, it is common for private clinics and hospitals in the US to omit things like anesthesia costs, doctor’s fees, booking charges, medication, temporary replacement teeth (if required), and other often frustratingly vague miscellaneous charges.

The good news is that most dentists in Mexico will include most – if not all – of these charges in your initial price quote (apart from additional treatments like bone grafting, as previously noted). Feel free to speak with our Customer Care Team who will be able to give you a run-down as to exactly what your dental implant price quote includes.

Here are some of the main reasons why thousands of international patients are flocking to Cancun for dental care… and abandoning their private practices back home.

Cheaper Dental Implant Prices in Cancun

The cost of living and doing business in Mexico is considerably lower than in North America and Europe, and the same goes for operating a dental clinic. With significantly lower overhead costs, huge savings are then passed on to patients without compromising quality or standards.

Thanks to our Best Price Guarantee, you’ll always get the lowest rates online for your specific treatment plan, allowing patients booking through Dental Departures to save up to 70% while enjoying the sun, sea and numerous attractions around Cancun.

High Safety & Professional Standards

You may be wondering about the hygiene standards at the clinic or whether the equipment and materials are of good quality. Dental Departures can alleviate your worries in some of these areas. We have quality-checked dentists whose qualifications and training have been verified by us. We also carry out onsite visits at our clinics when possible; if we don’t feel happy about any aspects of their service then we don’t list the clinic on our website.

The best dentists and implantologists we partner with in Cancun are highly trained and follow strict international safety standards. Facilities are well-equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology and industry-leading implant brands are used as standard. Many also have international affiliations with professional organizations, such as the Mexican or American Dental Association and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

The vast majority of reputable dentists in Mexico are registered with the Mexican Dental Association (also known as the Colegio Nacional de Cirujanos Dentistas). While it is not mandatory, this is considered a professional standard. Dentists are also members or affiliates of international organizations, such as the Mexican or American Dental Association and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Convenient Location for North Americans

Cancun International Airport is easily accessible from almost every major city in North America. Direct flights from across the US, Canada and even Europe are constantly being added as demand has been growing since the pandemic. 

A valid passport is required to enter Mexico, a visa is not needed for American citizens planning to stay less than 180 days. Please check with your local government website for the latest information on entry requirements.

Another thing to point out here is that many of the top dentists in Cancun have received at least part of their dental training in the US or Europe, allowing them to communicate clearly in English while delivering the same high standard of care as dentists in the West. 

Other Reasons to Choose Cancun for Your Dental Implants:

• Often as part of promotional packages, many clinics offer free transportation to and from appointments, free hotel stays and more.
   
• Our partner dentists offer guarantees on their treatment and warranties on implants, crowns and other fixed dental prosthetics.
   
• The success rates at the top clinics across Mexico are comparable to those back home at close to 95%. With proper care and regular check-ups, implants are expected to survive over 10 years, which is considered the global standard.
   
• Cancun is already an established medical tourist destination in Mexico filled with countless activities. So, there’ll be plenty of opportunity to hit the beach, explore the nearby Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, or browse some local markets while waiting between dental appointments.
   
• Dentists on our list are generally fluent in English so you can communicate directly with your dentist and clinical staff without language barriers.

Dental Departures is committed to ensuring high safety standards and the best quality dental care for international patients. Our team screens all clinics listed on our site, including clinics offering high-quality implants in Cancun. Our screening includes: 

• Verifying dentist qualifications and accreditations
• Checking the legitimacy of online reviews and testimonials and contacting their former patients
• Conducting on-site visits, when possible, to better understand what they have to offer patients
• Taking or gathering photos of the facility and equipment
• Checking professional memberships, associations and licenses permitting practice in Mexico
• Collecting and publishing before & after photos 
• Checking treatment success rates at different clinics, as well as other key performance metrics and patient ratings

Dental Departures offer 24-hour support throughout your procedure, you can contact us via live chat at no additional cost. If you have any concerns or experience complications, our team is here to assist you and work on your behalf.

Whether you are looking to save on a single tooth replacement while taking a much-needed vacation – or searching for more affordable full-mouth restoration options in Mexico with multiple dental implants, Dental Departures is an ideal starting point. 

Here are five of the leading clinics for dental implants in Cancun, Mexico:

• Top Smile by Dr. Omar Lugo
• Mark Shtern Dental Clinic
• Sani Dental Group Cancun
• Cancun Dental Care

For more options, check out our full list of verified dental implant dentists in Mexico here, with other top destinations including Tijuana, Los Algodones, Guadalajara, Playa del Carmen and the capital, Mexico City.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. These screw-like posts are made of either titanium or zirconia, and once inserted, they fuse with the jaw bone, providing a stable anchor for a crown, fixed bridge or other types of prosthetic device. 

Implants offer a more permanent solution compared to conventional dentures and bridges thanks to their excellent strength, durability and the stability they provide. It is possible that they can last a lifetime with proper care and regular maintenance.

When Are Dental Implants Needed?

Dental implants are a popular restorative option for many patients. You may consider getting dental implants to restore missing teeth or a loose tooth caused by:

• Decay
• Severe root fractures
• Complications from periodontal disease
• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Injury
• Other oral disease or health conditions

Implants can also be used to replace a loose bridge or denture that has debilitated over time.

It is also common for older edentulous patients to ‘upgrade’ their traditional dentures to a more comfortable and practical solution with a permanent, implant-retained prosthetic, such as an All-on-4.

Dental Implant Solutions for Missing Teeth

Single Implant with Crown – consists of a single post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. Several months of healing are necessary for the implant to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has integrated with the jawbone, a connecting device called an abutment will be attached to the implant; this supports a single crown that is custom-made to match the surrounding natural teeth. 

> Read More: Dental Crowns in Mexico

All-on-4 – an implant technique that replaces all missing teeth in either the upper, lower or both arches. For this technique, a complete set of prosthetic teeth is supported by four strategically placed implants, with the two rear ones normally inserted at a near-45-degree angle to maximize available bone density and increase stability. 

Once all four of the implants are in place, a temporary prosthesis can be placed on the same day. After the process of osseointegration is complete, the patient returns for the final restoration where a permanent, more durable set of custom-made teeth are then attached to the implants. 

> Read More: Guide to All-on-4 in Mexico

All-on-6 – similar to All-on-4 above, this involves the placement of six implants instead of four. The All-on-6 procedure, as opposed to the All-on-4, has a higher chance of requiring bone grafting and is generally more expensive. Some patients prefer All-on-6 as it provides more stability due to having two additional implants.

Zygomatic Implants – a solution for patients who have severe bone loss in the upper jaw. This treatment places longer, specialized screws into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone), thus eliminating the need for bone grafting. After the surgery, a full set of temporary (or ‘immediate loading’) teeth can be connected to the implants on the same day of surgery. 

The patient will need to return to the same dentist to have the temporary (or ‘provisional’) teeth replaced with a heavier, more durable version several months later to complete the treatment.

Implant-Retained Overdenture – this teeth replacement option uses a removable prosthesis that is retained – rather than permanently held in place – by a number of dental implants. Also referred to as a snap-on denture, special locators are placed underneath the denture to snap or clip onto a corresponding dental implant. 

Generally, two implants are used to support the lower jaw, and four to six implants are used to support the upper jaw.

Benefits of Dental Implant Restorations

Dental implants are considered the optimal teeth replacement solution because they offer a number of benefits compared to other solutions, like dentures or bridges. 

Here are the top benefits implants can bring you:

They look and feel like natural teeth. Anchored into the jawbone with posts that act like a real tooth root, they allow you to bite with an amount of force similar to your natural teeth. 

They prevent bone loss. The jawbone needs stimulation and blood flow from tooth roots to stay healthy and to keep supporting your facial structure. However, when the root goes, so does bone mass. With the absence of force exerted by the tooth, the jawbone becomes atrophied. If not corrected over time, your face shape will begin to change – creating sunken cheeks and making you look older.

They improve your speech. Conventional dentures can cause speech impediments as they tend to shift while speaking; missing teeth can also give you an undesired lisp during speech. Implants, on the other hand, keep the restorations securely in place all day long – enabling you to speak normally as you would with natural teeth. 

They support the adjacent teeth. Having a gap from a missing tooth can cause the adjacent teeth on either side to shift, eventually leading to misalignment. Implants fill the gap and keep the adjacent teeth in place so that they don’t move.

Implant surgery can be scheduled following a comprehensive examination where your dentist confirms that the gums are healthy and jawbone density is sufficient to support an implant. 

This will entail a thorough examination, as well as X-rays, CT scans and other oral evaluations.

In Brief: Treatment Stages

The process of placing a single dental implant with a crown involves the following steps.

Implant Surgery: the first step in the implant process involves surgically inserting an implant post, typically made from titanium, into the jaw bone. The procedure takes one to two hours at the dentist's office, during which the patient is given local anesthesia to numb the surrounding area (oral or IV sedation to help patients relax may also be offered).

Healing Phase: Following surgery, most dentists wait three to six months to allow the implant to properly fuse with the jaw bone (osseointegration) before continuing the final restoration of the tooth replacement. During this healing period, a temporary crown is often worn by the patient to avoid that ‘missing tooth’ look. 

Abutment and Crown Fitting: the last step is a less invasive procedure of attaching the abutment and crown to the implant. This first involves re-opening a small flap in the gumline to expose the now-secure implant. The abutment is a small device that screws onto the implant, and after it is secured, the crown can be fitted onto the abutment. 

Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery 

Prior to receiving the implant, the dentist will advise you on how to prepare for the surgery. For instance:

• If you're a smoker, you will be asked to give up smoking as it can impair your ability to heal and may affect the level of sedation during the surgery. 
• You must be nicotine and smoke-free for a minimum of six weeks prior to and after the surgery. 
• Caffeine is also to be avoided one week prior and alcohol is prohibited for at least 72 hours prior to surgery as it will interfere with sedation. 
• Notify your dentist about any medications or supplements you are taking as they may interfere with the surgery and/or disrupt the healing process.

Post-Surgery Care and Tips

• Avoid chewing hard foods for the first 10 days after getting your implant in order for it to heal properly. 
• As with any surgery, you may have some discomfort during the healing process. 
• It is normal to have minor bleeding, swelling, and bruising around the gums and face. 
• Your dentist may provide you with pain medication or antibiotics after surgery.
• Dentists recommend using implant floss and brushing at least twice a day. 

Cancun is a popular resort city in southeastern Mexico situated on the Yucatan Peninsula and looking out into the Caribbean Sea. Known for its picturesque beauty, white-sandy beaches, high-end resorts and bustling nightlife, it’s no wonder that Cancun is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in the world.  

So why not combine your next vacation with getting new teeth in Mexico?

While getting dental implants, you’ll have plenty of time between appointments to make the most of your time away from home: soak up the sun on the beach, browse a local market, set sail on a private catamaran island tour, trek through historic Mayan ruins, then after dark, flaunt your new smile (depending on your treatment progress) at the nightlife epicenter of Punta Cancun, aka the “Hotel Zone”. 

It should be noted that following dental implant surgery, certain activities are off-limits. You’ll be advised to avoid any strenuous activity that might cause accidental knocks to the mouth; any vigorous swimming activities like diving or water skiing should be done before surgery – so it might be a good idea to arrive in Cancun a few days in advance.

Getting to Cancun - And the Best Time

The easiest way to reach Cancun is by flying into Cancun International Airport (CUN). It is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean and Mexico region operating more than  500 flights a day on average, including direct flights from 42 cities across the US, as well as direct flights from countries in Europe and Latin America. 

The best time to visit Cancun is from December to April, the peak season as the weather is near-perfect. However, if you want to avoid crowds, consider going to Cancun in the summer or fall instead. You may experience high humidity and occasional rain during those times, but you can usually find cheaper deals on hotels and excursions. 

Getting Around Cancun

Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll find many options for getting into and around town. 

Shuttle Bus: The most affordable way to go from the airport to your accommodation is the shared shuttle bus, that’s if you don’t mind a few stops along the way. 

Taxis: Although widely available in Cancun, catching a taxi from inside the airport comes with a hefty surcharge, so flag one down on the street to save some money (do try to negotiate beforehand).

Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber is not available in the Cancun area due to conflicts with local taxi services. The same goes for other ride-sharing apps (at the time of writing).

Private Transfers: Private vans or cars are the most comfortable and convenient way to get around the city. Book a private transfer in advance and a driver will be waiting for you just outside the baggage claim holding up a sign.

Where to Stay in Cancun?

Here are some popular areas to consider when looking for accommodations in Cancun:

Hotel Zone is the main tourist area of Cancun, featuring a long strip of beachfront hotels and resorts. It's a lively area with many restaurants, nightclubs/bars and shopping. Expect resort prices here to be higher than other areas.

Downtown Cancun will give you a more local and authentic experience with a range of vibrant local markets, shops and restaurants. The area has a more flexible price range when it comes to hotels, guesthouses, and budget apartments.

Playa Mujeres is located just north of Cancun. It’s an upscale area known for world-class resorts and unspoiled beaches – perfect if you’re looking for a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds.

Puerto Cancun is located between the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun. This newer development features golf courses, private waterways leading into a marina, luxurious resorts, boutique shops and international restaurants. 

Top Attractions in Cancun

Cancun offers unforgettable experiences for every visitor. Whether you are looking for exciting nightlife, indoor or adventurous outdoor activities, there are a range of options:

Chichen Itza: A must-visit archaeological site, Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Tulum: An ancient Mayan port city famous for its stunning beaches and well-preserved Quintana Ruins dating back to the 13th century. The tranquil environment makes Tulum a hub for yoga, wellness retreats, holistic centers and relaxing spas. 

Xcaret: A nature park and eco-archaeological site where you can snorkel in underground caves and rivers, swim with dolphins, and explore cenotes which are natural sinkholes.

Xel-Ha: A natural aquatic eco-park where you can snorkel, swim, and float in rivers and cenotes surrounded by lush vegetation and marine life. As for you thrill-seekers, the park also offers zip-lining and cliff jumping.

Coco Bongo: Known for its busy nightlife entertainment, here you can enjoy a high-energy show featuring acrobats, dancers and live music for an incredible night out.

Underwater Museum (MUSA): Put on your diving gear and explore this underwater world of the Cancun National Marine Park. This unique attraction features over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged beneath the sea.

> Read More: For complete details on Cancun, visit our Ultimate Guide to Dentists in Cancun.

Dental implant treatment is generally completed in two stages, each several months apart, so you will be required to make two trips to Cancun. 

1. During the first trip, the dentist will surgically place the implants (if no bone grafting is required). 
    
2. During the second trip, the dentist will replace the temporary (or ‘provisional’) crowns or bridges with the permanent, final version. 

For each trip, patients will usually need to stay in Cancun for at least 5 days. After booking, your chosen dentist will be able to provide a more specific timeframe so you can plan your trip accordingly.

From start to finish, a complete dental implant restoration usually takes three to six months, depending on your oral health and requirements.

Dental Departures also works with a growing number of trusted implant dentists in nearby Mexican locations. Have a look at these recommended clinics also located on the Yucatan Peninsula.

• All Implant Dentists in Merida
• All Implant Dentists in Cozumel
• All Implant Dentists in Playa Del Carmen

Alternatively, browse through all of our partner implant dentists in Quintana Roo – the sunny Mexican state on the Yucatán Peninsula.

Q. How much do dental implants cost in Cancun? 
A. You can find savings of over 60%, with prices for a single dental implant with crown starting at just USD $700.

Q. Is Cancun safe for dentistry? 
A. Yes. Our partner dentists are registered with the Mexican Dental Association, with many trained abroad and members of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, ensuring the same high standards as dentistry back home.

Q. Do dentists in Cancun speak English? 
A. While Spanish is the official language of Mexico, the dentists we recommend on our site are able to communicate in English (often fluently).

Q. What types of dental implant options are available in Cancun? 
A. Many of the same world-renowned implant brands made of titanium or zirconia are used by dentists in Cancun, with popular treatment options including single crown on implant restorations, as well as full-arch all-on-4, all-on-6 and 3-on-6 implants.

Q. Do dental implants in Cancun come with warranties/guarantees? 
A. Our partner dentists offer guarantees on treatment and warranties on implants, as well as fixed prosthetic devices, like crowns. When booking, ask our Customer Care Team for more info.

Q. Will my US dental insurance cover dental implants in Cancun? 
A. Standard dental insurance generally does not cover non-essential dental work abroad, such as implants. We recommend that you contact the insurance company directly to find out your plan’s coverage.

To book your implant treatment in Mexico, get in touch with our Customer Care Team; our representatives can provide you with a personalized, no-obligation quote for your dental treatment at one or a number of our listed clinics. 

Alternatively, leave us your details and we’ll get back in touch at a time convenient for you, at no extra charge. 

Sources:

International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Website accessed: 19 June 2023. https://www.icoi.org/advanced-credentialing/

Why Medical Tourism in Mexico? Medtourpress. 25 August 2020. https://medtourpress.ir/en/why-medical-tourism-in-mexico/

Mexico. Travel.State.Gov. Website accessed: 19 June 2023. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html

More than 25 million international tourists visit Mexico in the first five months. Riviera Maya News. 13 July 2022. https://www.riviera-maya-news.com/more-than-25-million-international-tourists-visit-mexico-in-first-five-months/2022.html

Shin, Y.C., Bae, JH., Lee, J.H. et al. Enhanced osseointegration of dental implants with reduced graphene oxide coating. Biomater Res 26, 11 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40824-022-00257-7

Zygomatic implants. For.org. Website accessed: 19 June 2023. https://www.for.org/en/treat/treatment-guidelines/edentulous/treatment-procedures/surgical/surgical-protocols-maxilla/zygomatic-implants

Mexico Safety. Lonely Planet. Website accessed: 19 June 2023. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/safety

Mexico's Climate Varies From Arid to Tropical. Internationally Living. Website accessed: 19 June 2023. https://internationalliving.com/countries/mexico/climate-in-mexico

Higuera, V. 3 Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth. Healthline. 14 August 2019. https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/missing-teeth#implants