Discount Dentistry, South of the Border

Consumers who lack insurance for health care tend to make decisions based on price – and travel to neighboring countries known for low costs. US consumers who don’t have dental insurance head to Mexico, where prices are about one quarter what’s charged in the US. Costa Rica, Hungary and Thailand also offer low-cost dental havens. Some US consumers even decline insurance, because the premiums cost more than dental care in Mexico. Adding to the low price, Mexico’s legal system discourages malpractice lawsuits. US dentists warn that complications can accompany the discounts –but a few have joined the competition, taking advantage of Mexico’s low costs themselves and opening offices in trade-friendly communities. – YaleGlobal