Costa Rica
Dental care in San José
Pura vida and a long tradition of dental care
Overview
Why patients choose San José
San José, Costa Rica’s capital, sits in a green valley surrounded by volcanoes. Costa Rica has welcomed dental patients from North America for decades, and many of its clinics are in the western suburbs of Escazú and Santa Ana.
Established dental destination
Decades of experience treating patients from the U.S. and Canada.
Spring-like weather
The Central Valley is mild all year thanks to its altitude.
Nature nearby
Volcanoes, cloud forests and coffee farms within a day trip.
San José at a glance
- Vetted clinics in our network
- 1
- Nearest airport
- Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
- Best time to visit
- December to April
Prices
What treatment costs in San José
Starting prices from clinics in our network. Booking through Globalcare often gets you an even better price.
| Treatment | In San José | Typical U.S. price |
|---|---|---|
| All-on-4per arch | from $9,500U.S. $20,000–$30,000 | $20,000–$30,000 |
| Dental implant with crownper tooth | from $1,400U.S. $3,000–$5,000 | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Porcelain veneerper tooth | from $450U.S. $1,000–$2,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Zirconia crownper tooth | from $550U.S. $1,000–$2,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
Prices are the lowest listed by clinics in our network and are for information only. U.S. prices are typical ranges from public cost guides. Your final cost depends on the treatment plan a dental professional recommends.
Clinics
Vetted clinics in San José
Every clinic is visited and reviewed by our team. Chat with the dentists and get free quotes before you travel.
Travel guide
Plan your trip to San José
What to know before you book your flight.
Getting there
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
The airport is in Alajuela, 30 to 45 minutes from Escazú depending on traffic. Many clinics arrange pickups.
Weather
Best time: December to April
The dry season runs from December to April. May to November is the green season, with afternoon showers.
Where to stay
- Escazú and Santa Ana. Modern suburbs with hotels, shopping centers and many clinics.
- Barrio Escalante. A walkable neighborhood in the city known for its restaurants.
Things to do between appointments
National Theatre
A 19th-century theater with a lavish interior in downtown San José.
Poás or Irazú volcano
Day trips to active volcanoes with crater lookouts.
Coffee farm tour
Learn how Costa Rican coffee is grown and roasted, about an hour away.
Staying safe
Use official red taxis or rideshare apps, keep valuables out of sight and never leave bags in a parked car.
Before you book, check the current U.S. State Department travel advisory for Costa Rica.
FAQ
Questions about San José
Anything else? Our team answers every message.
How many days do I need in San José?
Crowns and veneers usually take 5 to 7 days. Dental implants and All-on-4 normally take two trips: one to place the implants and a second, 3 to 6 months later, for the final teeth. Your clinic confirms the exact plan after reviewing your X-rays.
Can I pay in U.S. dollars?
Yes. U.S. dollars and credit cards are widely accepted, though small purchases are often cheaper in colones.
Do I need a passport?
Yes. Your passport must be valid for your whole stay. U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays.
Keep exploring
Other destinations
MexicoCancunCaribbean beaches and modern clinics minutes from the airportExplore Cancun4 vetted clinics
MexicoTijuanaQuality dentistry just across the border from San DiegoExplore Tijuana1 vetted clinic
MexicoLos AlgodonesHundreds of dentists within a few walkable blocksExplore Los Algodones3 vetted clinics
Ready for your new smile in San José?
Compare clinics, chat with the dentists and get free quotes. No commitment.