Medical and Dental Doctors and Services
Nogales, Sonora, Mexico 

frequently asked questions
and answers

 
  • What about the new United States Passport Law, Don't you need a US Passport to return to the United States from Mexico?

    Yes, you should have a passport or a passport card. Recently the Nogales International newspaper revealed that a US citizen does not have to have a passport, just driver's license and another piece of ID like a birth certificate. See the story at this link:  http://mexicandoctorsdir.com/Passport_info/Nogales_International.htm. Click to see Homeland Security, US Department of State--New Requirements for Travelers.

    Is Nogales safe for U.S. Citizens and Tourists?

    Yes it is, since in 2008 there have been some problems between the drug cartels and the police but it is out of the tourist areas and basically confined to the bad guys. There have not been any problems in the Tourist District, there are plenty of police and in addition, the street traffic is so congested that it would completely impossible for a bad guy to make an escape.

  • Why Nogales?
    The easy answer is: dental rates are lower - much lower. Medical and/or Dental procedures in Nogales are 40 to 60% less,  than like procedures in the U.S. and Canada.
  • But isn't that true all over Mexico?
    Yes it is, but what makes Nogales special; is the fact that most of the Doctors and Dentists are set up for U.S. / Canada patients. They speak English and their practices are setup to meet or exceed U.S. standards and expectations. Nogales is easy to get to from the many Nogales, AZ secure parking lots ($4 per day or street parking for $1 for 2 hours) it is possible to walk to most dental/medical offices in ten minutes, taxis and buses are available for some of the more distant offices.

    Another attraction to Nogales, Sonora, Mexico is the great restaurants, bars, shops (stalls,) and discount pharmacies and the great savings at the Duty Free shops at the border entrance. See Other Nogales Services.

  • What about accessibility for the handicapped?
    Most of the sidewalks have ramps, but the the sidewalks sometimes crowded with vendors that may make transversing them a little challenging. Some of the buildings and offices have ramps and elevators. Be sure to ask about the office's accessibility when you schedule your appointment.

  • Are Mexican dentists well trained?
    Mexico takes pride in its Dental Colleges; all dentists represented on this site meet high standards in professionalism and academic training, plus continuing education (which is often in the United States,) autoclave sterilization and sanitation procedures that meet western standards.

  • Do Mexican dentists have up to date equipment?
    Yes, just like the U.S., see pictures of the featured practitioner's offices and equipment.

  • Do they speak English?
    Most do, some better than others. Usually someone in the office speaks English quite well - language is not a problem.
  • Why are they cheaper?
    Dental offices are usually less elaborate than U.S. counterparts. Office space and waiting rooms are much smaller. Office help and dental assistants are much less expensive. Be sure to check out the pictures of the offices, equipment and staff on the featured practitioner's Webpages, it's helpful to get a visual idea as to the environment. Some of the offices and equipment exceed U.S. standards. Dentists pay no malpractice insurance, although they can be sued in a Mexican Court. Economic expectations are less.
  • Can I pay the dentist with a check?
    Most dentists prefer travelers checks, money orders or cash, at least until they know you well. If you will be making multiple visits dealing with dental prosthetics, generally you pay as you get the work done, 50% of the cost of dentures, bridges and etc. is required before they are made.

  • Can I use my credit card?
    Some of the Doctors and Dentist accept all or some of the major credit cards. You can check the Webpages of the practitioners or ask when you make your appointment.

  • Do the Doctors and Dentists accept American Health and Dental Insurance?
    Some accept payments directly from the Insurance companies, some will provide you with the paperwork for you to submit and some do not. Check their Webpages for information on the individual practitioner or ask them.

  • Is it easy to drive into Nogales?
    Yes, very. It's about an hour from Tucson and approximately 3 hours from Phoenix.    Is it easy to drive out of Nogales, Mexico?
    Driving in is not a problem, leaving is not always easy-sometimes (frequently) a long line of border crossing traffic builds up and crossing crossing time is lengthy.

  • Does my American/Canadian car insurance protect me in Mexico?
    No. You need insurance purchased from a Mexican company.
  • I have a great fear of dentists. Can I be put to sleep?
    Yes. But Mexican law requires that an anesthesiologist (M.D.) do it and that is an added cost to your dental procedure. Some dentists recommend taking 10 mg of Xanax or Valium 30 minutes prior to the procedure to local anesthesia.
  • Is there danger in going to Nogales? Mexico?
    No. Dental patients are the economic "bread and butter" of town. Nogales is one of the most Tourist-protected places in Mexico. The regular police plus "tourist police," watch over you.
  • Still have questions?
    Send us an email, we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Click here for email Ask a Question.

  • Other solutions to your general or technical questions:

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