'I've seen a lot of bad dentistry from Mexico,' says William Helfert DDS, who practices in Mesa, Arizona. 'But I've seen a lot of that from this country, too,' he concedes.
More than in the United States, dental treatment in Mexico can be hit or miss, according to Thomas J. Balshi, DDS, founder of Prosthodontics Intermedica in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, and a partner in Prosthodontics Intermedica in Mexico. 'During my time of teaching course in Mexico City,' says Dr. Balshi, 'I have learned that there are a variety of levels of dental professionals.'
Often, Escapees in need of dental work have crossed the border to save money, and many have been pleased with the quality of care. 'This past winter was my first and only experience with a Mexican dentist.,' says Kit Carter, 'and I'd go back in a New York minute!'
Kit asked for references from friends before heading to Algodones, Mexico, to visit the office of Dr. Rogelio Ramos. 'He accommodated me right away,' says Kit, 'and in less than an hour, and 50 bucks later, I departed, one less tooth from my collection.'
Satisfied Snowbirds
Wally and Patsy Cook also headed for Algodones after Wally was diagnosed with $2,000 worth of dental work at a dentist's office in Reno, Nevada. Dra. Celsa Salmeron identified the same problems the Reno dentist described and completed the work in a timely manner, according to Patsy. 'I had my teeth cleaned and was cavity-free,' she says, 'and our bill was just under $500 for both of us.' While in the waiting room, Wally interviewed five people who had patronized Dra. Salmeron for years. 'All were snowbirds, says Patsy, 'and all were satisfied with the dentist's work.'
Two more Escapees relate pleasant experiences with Mexican dentists -- again in Algodones. Dra. Ana Maria Gutierrez impressed Joyce Fuhrman by explaining the steps of her procedure and treating Joyce in a gentle manner. 'All in all,' says Joyce, 'I had four crowns done within a few days at a cost of $150 each. They seem to work very well.'
In the offices of Dr. Armano Parra, another dentist prepared and seated a crown for Mary Lou Brown for $200. 'I watched her like a hawk,' says Mary Lou, 'but had no problems. I know many, many others who have gone to other offices (in Algodones). Everyone has been satisfied.'
Every dentist in Algodones, Mexico, performs quality work, according to Dra. Parra. 'I have done part of my preparation in the USA,' she says. 'The materials I use come from the United States.'
In Tijuana, Max Corona, DDS, advertises personalized attention in his practice, as well as the same quality care as any well-managed general dental office in the USA. 'Periodontics is a specialty performed in may dental office,' he says. 'And I have my own dental ceramics laboratory.' An on-site laboratory can speed delivery of permanent prosthetics, and Dr. Corona claims to adhere to sterilization procedures and to comply with rules and mandatory regulations of the dental profession in Mexico.
