Spanish-speaking US dental student here. As 1 of very few Hispanic students at my school I am very familiar with foreign dental work, especially Mexico. My patient list is almost exclusively Latino (most who came from other countries). It includes 87 Spanish-speaking patients (to give you an idea of the breadth of my experience)

1. I do not agree with this post. Granted I have a clear biased so you can take it for what's it's worth. This is just my opinion as someone who has a unique insight into this industry. Also, I'm sure there are some great dentists in Mexico but I have yet to see anything with equal or better quality. The lack of education/standards shows through.

In fact most of what I spend my time doing is fixing other people's work. It's great for my experience as a student but I feel terrible for my patients. I am overwhelmed with people who need work corrected, redone, or damage controlled.

1. There are PLENTY of places you can get affordable dental work. Not just schools but also "Federally Qualified Health Centers" which are govt funded clinics. "Mission of Mercy" also does free traveling dental clinics in many states.

2. The reason dentistry costs so much is because our education is a FORTUNE. Average dental student loans are 250k. If you go to a private dental school that number is 350k. The real crooks are the universities and I believe it will eventually come to hurt our economy.

A perfect example: I am currently treating a patient who will need 3 out of her 6 upper anterior teeth extracted, (the rest root canaled) because she had veneers placed in Mexico which later developed extensive decay underneath. This was mostly because the veneers were not placed properly (open margins, cheap material) - some teeth were not salvageable and the others will require heroics to keep... But it will be beautiful once we finish and I can't wait for her to see the final product.

The most common thing I see in my foreign patients are poorly done crowns bridges and implants. Mostly poor margins (allowing bacteria to creep in) and lots of disregard for basic precautions that would be considered standard of care here in the US. Things that make up the foundation of our dental education. Not just as far as cavities but also the planning behind procedures with regard to the mechanics and function of your mouth in mind. The mouth and your teeth are extremely important to your survival. Forget your smile... You still need to eat!! And without pain or infection!! Sure you can get dentures... But think of it this way- would you rather run a marathon in sneakers or flip flops?

People. Take care of yourselves. You are grown responsible adults. Brush your teeth. Floss. Get your regular cleanings.