Dentists in Buenos Aires: A Guide for Expats
Buenos Aires offers both public and private dental care, though expats typically prefer private clinics for their higher-quality facilities, shorter wait times, and greater likelihood of English-speaking staff.
Dental tourism is common here, with many visitors seeking procedures like implants or veneers at significantly lower costs than in North America or Europe.
Key Considerations for Expats
Language: While some private dentists speak English, learning basic Spanish dental terms is invaluable for smoother communication.
Quality: Private clinics often match international standards, with many dentists trained abroad. Public clinics can be crowded with longer wait times.
Emergency care: Major hospitals like Hospital Británico and Hospital Italiano offer emergency dental services. Keep their contact info accessible.
How Dental Care Works
Booking: Schedule appointments by phone, email, or through clinic websites. Many private clinics offer online booking.
Process: Expect a consultation first, followed by treatment planning. Digital X-rays and modern equipment are standard in private clinics.
Payment: Most private clinics accept credit cards or cash. Some offer payment plans for major procedures like implants or orthodontics.
Cost Considerations
Dental care in Buenos Aires is consistently more affordable than in the US, Canada, or Western Europe.
Basic consultations start at very reasonable rates, while complex procedures (implants, orthodontics) cost a fraction of Western prices. Many expats pay out-of-pocket, though international health insurance can provide additional coverage.
Essential Spanish Vocabulary
- Dentista – Dentist
- Urgencia dental – Dental emergency
- Radiografía – X-ray
- Dolor de muelas – Toothache
- Ortodoncia – Orthodontics
Practical Tips
Specialized services:
• For children: Look for odontopediatras (pediatric dentists)
• Orthodontics: Invisalign and traditional braces are widely available
• Implants/veneers: Confirm materials used and surgeon’s experience
Common mistakes: Assuming all clinics accept walk-ins (always book ahead), not confirming insurance coverage upfront, or delaying treatment due to cost concerns (procedures are more affordable here).